Progress is an expensive proposition. It can be painful. It can also be messy as well.

I try to stay out of politics in this column. It is reserved for my personal observations, not a place for editorial content.

But this week I am going to tip my toe into the political realm about the progress and growth of this city and county.

I understand the revelation the city of Shelbyville spent $300,000 to guarantee a Chick-fil-A would be built here has sent shockwaves through the community with texts, Twitter, Facebook and other social media filled with reactions.

I understand why owners of existing restaurants are upset at the news. But I can also understand why the city did it.

Cities and counties unwilling to pay the price to attract new businesses and industries are going to be passed over in favor of the municipalities willing to make financial commitments.

Middle Tennessee is in a growth mode. Most of us want amenities like more dining choices, more and bigger stores and an opportunity for people to earn higher wages.

Industries look at what a possible location site has to offer in areas from education to housing to amenities. They also are looking for incentives.

Chick-fil-A is going to produce more than its share of tax revenue. A new McDonald’s to complement the one on Madison Street will do the same thing.

The Celebration and other entities are working to bring more events to the area. That means restaurants are going to enjoy more business. Convenience stores are going to sell more gas. And the city and county coffers will benefit.

But even these events bring criticism from some who live in the county. I overheard someone complain that the ICS State and Regional contests as part of Summer Southern Chili Days on square was an inconvenience because it was difficult for people who want to just shop to find a parking spot.

Ironic since the event was designed to bring people to the square for not only chili but for a car show.

I remember many years ago when I was editor of the Times-Gazette my colleague at a local paper wrote in his column that something “was as dead as the Shelbyville square at 4:30 on a Saturday afternoon.”

Thank goodness that isn’t the case now. Events like the chili cookoff help. Also, the opening of the Glass Hollow Table & Tavern and the Grindstone Cowboy projects as well as the Duck River overlook are going to attract even more people to the square. There might even be a need for a parking garage.

Progress is here folks. It may not make everyone happy, but even more is on the way.