Rebecca and Scott Berkley with Smith County Judge Neal Franklin (center) at the 2025 State of the County.

Smith County Judge Neal Franklin talks economic development, collaborative wins.

By Joycelyne Fadojutimi

James Sheridan Tyler Chamber of Commerce Board Chair welcomed a vibrant audience gathered at the recent State of Smith County in the Green Acres Baptist Church Crosswalk Conference Center. Larry Melhart with Smith County Prayer Force opened with a prayer thereby setting a tone of thanksgiving and positivity. And Curtis Clay with David Staples on the keyboard entertained the audience.

All of the above made for an energetic and inspiring ambiance marking the gathering with a sense of community spirit.

Judge Neal took the podium expressing his gratitude to attendees. He engaged the audience with humor and warmth, calling them “beautiful people” and encouraging applause for one another, which fostered a welcoming environment. He incorporated light-hearted moments with his golfing video and including anecdotes about his birthday golf wishes on February 12^th. 

Furthermore, there was a focus on achievement and progress within the county. Franklin  highlighted job creation, completed major projects, collaborations and on-going projects which include:

• The completion of Parking Garage in 2024.
• Jail Navigator Program: This program focuses on restoring competency within the jail system, collaborating with the Andrews Center.
• Jail Medical Program: A partnership with UT Health to enhance medical services in the jail.
• Restoration of the Old Behavioral Health Center: Set to address community mental health needs, with support from both university and community leaders.
• Miracle League of Tyler: This project is aimed at supporting children with special needs in recreational activities, with a planned ribbon-cutting ceremony soon.
• Tyler Economic Development Council Projects: Work is underway at the Tyler Industrial Park involving new developments such as Amazon and Yellawood, credited for creating 4,319 new private sector jobs over the past year.
• Operation Eastside: This is part of a capital improvement plan focusing on moving county operations to a downtown campus, which will include remodeling and potentially new construction.
• Animal Control Initiatives: The county is working with a consultant to improve animal control facilities and relocate to a more central area to facilitate adoptions and more.

But that is not all.

On a different note, to inspire resilience and connection, Judge Franklin shared a deeply personal story about loss that illustrates its impact on community initiatives. He recounted the tragic death of his niece, Mary Elena Franklin, in a car accident and how her loss brought together neighbors and friends in a profound way. The community united to create a park in her memory, Elena’s Children Park in Dallas – a place not only to honor her but to support families who have lost children. This park became a focal point for healing and reflection, with over 500 families, corporations, and foundations contributing to its realization.

Even more, he discussed the story of another family, the Carsons, who were inspired by this initiative after experiencing their own loss. They sought to create a similar park in Tyler, and, with the support of the community, they successfully established the Children’s Park of Tyler. This park serves as a tranquil space for families to find comfort and solace.

Judge Franklin emphasized the importance of community collaboration and support in the face of grief, noting that shared experiences can lead to meaningful initiatives that help others navigate their own losses.

His message resonated with themes of resilience, community service, and positivity, making it clear he values both personal and communal growth. Judge Franklin urged attendees to maintain a positive attitude, suggesting that individuals focus on uplifting messages and community spirit, highlighting that life is too short to engage with negativity.