Public Meetings - Chattanooga, Tennessee

The Chattanooga City Council met on April 21, 2026, for an agenda session in the afternoon and reconvened at 4:30 PM for a business meeting. The council approved multiple zoning ordinances, resolutions, and purchases. Notable discussions included the proposed Southside Cowart Street neighborhood parking district and a request for taxi rate increases. The meeting began with the Pledge of Allegiance and invocation, followed by approval of the previous meeting's minutes. Consent Calendar - Minutes were approved as published. - Final reading ordinances (Items 7A–D) passed unanimously: rezonings on Russell Avenue and Singing Mountain Row (Item 7A), abandonment of a planned unit development in multiple locations (7B), amendment of zoning conditions on North Moore Road (7C), and rezoning on 7th Avenue (7D). - First reading ordinance Item 8A (closing and abandoning a former Belt Railway right-of-way on North Orchid Knob Avenue) passed. - Resolutions 9A (fee waiver for Scenic City Shakespeare at Greenway Farms; rental fees of $9,500 waived but a $9,500 deposit required), 9B (reappointment of Marcus Williams to the Sports Authority for a term ending in 2032), 9C (purchase of 4.27 acres at 1009 Reeds Lake Road for $900,000 plus closing costs), 9D (increase to fire department record management contract by $10,200 for a new total of $646,411.12), 9E (renaming DuPont Park as Alan Ledford Park), 9F (waiver of the $300 custom program fee for Camp Hope with Outdoor Chattanooga), and 9G (contract with Kimley-Horn and Associates for preliminary design of eliminating the Norfolk Southern railroad crossing on Hamill Road, not to exceed $1,618,750) were all approved. - All five recommended purchases (including 67 office chairs for $71,028.93, emergency sewer backup services, wet weather polymer extension, ballistic identification system, and bleachers at Tyner Community Center) and four sole-source purchases were approved. Public Comments & Testimony - Missy Crutchfield (Highland Park): Thanked the council for forming a committee on homelessness and described the Unbroken Coalition's work to connect nonprofits. She reported incidents of assault against unsheltered women and children by housed individuals and urged the council to act with compassion. - Emily Byland (District 7, Battle Academy PTA President): Opposed the proposed South Cowart permit parking district, stating it would harm the Title I school. She noted that 41% of students are eligible for SNAP, the school has only 46 parking spots for 70+ staff, and most students arrive by car. She argued the permit system would lengthen the car line, potentially blocking Main Street and delaying emergency services. - Robert Work (Owner, Honeyseed): Opposed the parking district, arguing on-street parking is generally available and the ordinance would materially harm local businesses. He pointed out a contradiction: the city required a private business to make its parking lot public but now proposes to restrict street parking. - John Stevens (District 7, Southside Cowart Place Neighborhood Association): Supported the parking district as a quality-of-life improvement for residents and emphasized the neighborhood's willingness to work with the school and businesses. - Jonathan Easter (District 9, Nuga Taxi Cab Company): Requested a taxi rate increase, noting it has been 15 years since the last adjustment. He cited inflation, rising insurance costs, and market comparisons with other Tennessee cities. He asked for a one-time reset to market rates and an annual adjustment mechanism similar to towing. Councilman Clark agreed to sponsor legislation on the matter. - Janice Gooden (District 8): Commented on the morning committee meeting on homelessness, appreciating the renewed focus and promising to provide written input. Discussion Items - Southside Cowart Street Neighborhood Parking District: Councilwoman Dotley introduced an alternate version of the ordinance with conditions negotiated with Battle Academy. The conditions include school hang tags valid from 6 AM to 6 PM only during the school year, an appeals process through the Parking Authority, and a notification requirement for after-hours events. She deferred the item to April 28 for a vote. Councilwoman Hill raised concerns from a business owner about the hours restricting daytime business parking. Dotley responded that the process has been ongoing for years and needs a conclusion. - Taxi Rate Increase: Jonathan Easter's public comments prompted Councilman Clark to commit to drafting and bringing forward a taxi rate increase ordinance. Committee Reports - Councilman Henderson reported an upcoming lunch-and-learn tour of the Bend with the IDB and administration on April 28. - Councilwoman Dotley noted the Affordable Housing Committee will meet next week. - Vice Chair Elliott stated the Legislative Committee will meet next week to discuss Councilman Harvey's landscape award proposal. Key Outcomes - All voting items on the agenda were approved except Item 8B (rezoning on Shallow Ford Road), which was deferred to April 28. - The Southside Cowart Street parking district ordinance was deferred to April 28 with a substitute version to be considered. - Councilman Clark committed to introducing a taxi rate increase ordinance in the coming weeks. The meeting adjourned after public comments.

The meeting was called to order with a quorum. The council approved the minutes from the previous meeting. The primary agenda items were presentations on Plan Chattanooga (the city's comprehensive plan) and the CARTA 20-year transit vision, followed by a proposal for a Veterans Banner Project. Consent Calendar - The minutes from the prior meeting were approved as published. Discussion Items - Plan Chattanooga Comprehensive Plan: Karen Rennick and Charles Frazier presented the final draft of Plan Chattanooga, a citywide growth strategy built on the One Chattanooga strategic plan. The plan includes a citywide framework and eight area plans, focusing on four goals: vibrant walkable districts, development respecting the natural environment, maximizing transportation investments, and diverse housing choices. Key features include directing growth to urban areas, evolving commercial corridors into walkable centers, and limiting development in environmentally sensitive areas. The plan is a guiding document, not a regulatory ordinance, and does not change zoning. Staff anticipates presenting to the Planning Commission in May 2026, with adoption by the Planning Commission in June and City Council in July 2026. - CARTA 20-Year Transit Vision: Charles Frazier presented the transit component integrated into Plan Chattanooga. The vision includes high-capacity corridors (e.g., Brainerd Road, Lee Highway) with bus rapid transit, expanded fixed-route service (six routes to 15-minute frequency, five to 30-minute), reimagined shuttle routes, 33 mobility hubs, microtransit zones, expanded paratransit, and commuter service. The plan also includes transit-supportive investments: 70 miles of redesigned streets, 53 miles of sidewalks, 61 miles of bike lanes, 16 miles of greenways, and over 200 signal upgrades. Funding opportunities include grant applications (e.g., a $25 million grant for AV shuttles). A five-year transformation roadmap with quantified service expansion and funding plans will be presented to council in May 2026. - Veterans Banner Project: Councilman Hart proposed a program to honor veterans by placing banners with their likeness on city-owned light poles, similar to the Veterans Bridge flag program. The banners would be displayed from Memorial Day to Veterans Day, starting in 2026 (America's 250th birthday). He suggested the council office manage the program, with a fee to cover costs. Council members discussed logistics: inventory of poles, corridor selection, payment processing, storage, and potential partnerships with VFWs or libraries. The project is still in the idea stage, with further refinement needed. Key Outcomes - Minutes approved. - Staff will provide council with the latest version of Plan Chattanooga and the CARTA transit vision link by the end of the week. - Councilman Hart will continue developing the Veterans Banner Project, including discussions with the council clerk and other stakeholders.

On April 21, 2026, the Chattanooga City Council's working group on homelessness convened at 1:00 PM to discuss strategies for addressing homelessness, focusing on youth at risk, emergency shelter capacity, and coordination with community partners. Councilmembers, city staff, and representatives from nonprofit organizations, faith-based groups, and grassroots coalitions participated. Public Comments & Testimony - Cassie (OSH staff) noted many churches and organizations want to help but lack coordination, and suggested the city provide trauma-informed training and best practices to avoid barriers (e.g., for LGBTQ+ individuals). - Alyssa Turner (Unbroken Coalition) stated they are developing a database and raised the question of a low-barrier shelter, asking whether the city needs one or several. - Barron King (Chad Foundation) emphasized that successful cities pair 24/7 low-barrier shelters with robust support services, and noted that any shelter should be located near existing services (e.g., on 11th Street). He offered to share three proposals submitted over 10 years. - Blake Pierce (White Oak Bicycle) highlighted transportation as a key need, noting his agency provided over 400 rides in the past year, and urged coordination with CARTA and other groups. - An unnamed outreach worker warned that building a shelter downtown would not attract people from other areas, and that enforced encampment evictions have increased harm, including a death after a camp removal. - A church representative noted their congregation provides tents and sleeping bags, but the cycle of replacement is costly; they emphasized that people set fires out of survival, not malice. - A post-housing case worker reported that aggressive encampment removals have eroded trust among homeless individuals, who now associate all social service workers with enforcement. Discussion Items - Youth Aging Out of Foster Care: Councilman Henderson proposed expanding support for youth aging out of foster care (ages 18–24) by providing emergency funds, bank accounts, and bus passes (a pilot program with CARTA already exists). He suggested creating a database of these youth to target resources. - Emergency Shelter Beds: Casey (city staff) reported there are only 124 emergency shelter beds citywide, mostly for families and domestic violence survivors. Councilman Harvey proposed creating a database of churches willing to host emergency shelters, especially for extreme weather, and holding a meeting to coordinate. - Low-Barrier Shelter: The group debated a single large shelter vs. smaller shelters across districts. Barron King advocated for a 24/7 low-barrier shelter paired with services, and noted a city-owned building (Family Promise) blocks away could house up to 80 people. Councilman Harvey suggested nonprofits lead the effort, with city support for land and resources. - Citizen Advisory Board: Councilman Harvey proposed forming a citizen advisory group similar to other city boards. Councilman Henderson asked interested attendees to email the city council clerk. - Standard Operating Procedures for Camp Removals: Councilman Clark raised concerns about inhumane removal of belongings and loss of medication. Casey clarified that existing procedures involve notifying residents and negotiating with property owners, but enforcement has increased due to lack of exit plans (no section 8 vouchers, public housing full). Councilman Clark called for a written humane protocol. - Behavioral Health Partnerships: Councilman Clark stressed that homelessness is a public health crisis and recommended stronger partnerships with Erlanger and behavioral health providers, noting that many homeless individuals have disabilities and cannot work. Key Outcomes - Action Items Created: 1. Develop a database of churches and community partners willing to host emergency shelters. 2. Compile a database of youth aging out of foster care (ages 18–24) to target housing and support. 3. Form a citizen advisory group; interested parties to email city council clerk Nicole Gwynn. - Tours Planned: The council will tour Chad Foundation facilities and Family Promise building to assess low-barrier shelter potential. - Data Requests: Council requested data on homeless arrests and service utilization; Casey offered to provide cost calculations for supplementing disability income to close the rent gap (estimated $1–10 million for 200 people). - Policy Development: Council agreed to draft a comprehensive strategic plan including humane camp removal procedures, behavioral health integration, and housing voucher programs, using existing recommendations from the Homeless Coalition and Chad Foundation proposals. - No formal votes were taken; the meeting was informational and action-oriented.

The Health Education Housing Facilities Board of the City of Chattanooga met on April 20, 2026, to review minutes, approve resolutions related to housing covenants and a new down payment assistance program, receive information on a Baylor School bond project, and address concerns regarding the College Hill Courts redevelopment. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approval: The minutes from the February 16, 2026 meeting were approved unanimously. - Resolution Ratifying Joinder for THDA Covenants – Larry Plant Transaction: The board ratified the chair’s execution of a joinder for the Tennessee Housing Development Agency (THDA) Rental Housing Declaration of Restricted Covenants and Notice of Land Use Restrictions concerning C and E on the Larry Plant property. Approved unanimously. - Resolution Ratifying Joinder for THDA Covenants – Bailey Property: The board ratified a similar joinder for the Bailey property, which includes maintenance of a private stormwater management facility. Approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public addressed the board. Discussion Items - Down Payment Assistance Program MOU: Megan Miles, Director of Housing Policy for the City of Chattanooga, presented a resolution authorizing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with THDA to administer a new down payment assistance program. The program provides up to $15,000 in city funds to first-time homebuyers within Chattanooga city limits, layered with THDA’s existing $6,000 down payment assistance. The combined assistance can reach $21,000. Eligibility requirements include a purchase price cap of $400,000 and an income limit of 120% of area median income. The loan is a zero-percent interest, deferred payment loan due upon sale or cash-out refinance. The city has allocated $3 million for this program, which will be reimbursed to THDA on a first-come, first-served basis. Lenders already approved with THDA can access both funding sources with no additional application to the city. The board heard questions about outreach, lender participation, and the application process. The resolution was approved. - Preliminary Summary of Baylor School Bonds and Projects: Mr. Dallas, representing Baylor School, presented an informational overview. The school currently enrolls 1,130 students (890 day students and 240 boarding students). Baylor proposes to build a new dormitory to increase boarding capacity from 240 to 304 students, retrofit the building with equipment, construct a central utility plant for steam and water to multiple buildings, and install fiber optics on campus. Additionally, the school plans to refinance $17.9 million of its $61 million in bonds issued in 2017 (with 18 years remaining). No vote was taken; the item was for board information and will come for formal action at the next meeting. - College Hill Courts Phased Redevelopment: A board member raised a concern about potential displacement of residents during the phased redevelopment of College Hill Courts (formerly known as Concord Courts). The member noted that up to seven phases are planned and asked for assurance that residents would have a place to move. A staff representative (referencing Betsy) stated that the concern is incorrect: Phase 1 will be completed by the end of the year, Phase 2 is under construction and will be ready next year, and subsequent phases will accommodate all residents who choose to remain. The board member’s question was answered. Key Outcomes - Approved minutes of February 16, 2026 meeting. - Approved two resolutions ratifying execution of THDA joinder covenants for the Larry Plant and Bailey properties. - Approved resolution authorizing the MOU with THDA for the down payment assistance program (up to $3 million). - Received information on Baylor School’s proposed bond refinancing and capital projects; no action taken. - Addressed board member’s concern regarding College Hill Courts displacement, with staff clarification that all residents will have housing options in new phases. - Next meeting scheduled for May 18, 2026.

The Industrial Development Board (IDB) of Chattanooga convened on April 20, 2026, at approximately 9:00 AM. The meeting included approval of previous minutes, public comments, financial reports, and three major resolutions: engagement of an underwriter for the North River Access Road Tax Increment Financing (TIF), approval of an intergovernmental sales tax agreement for the Northgate Mall TIF, and a small business incentive grant. All resolutions passed unanimously. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The board unanimously approved the minutes from the March 2, 2026 IDB meeting via motion and second, with no opposition. Public Comments & Testimony - Helen Byrne Sharp, representing Accountability for Taxpayer Money, addressed the board. She requested that staff or the applicant provide a plain English explanation for the North River Access Road TIF amendment, noting the TIF has returned to the board multiple times. Regarding the Northgate Mall TIF, she asked why the sales tax collection boundary was limited to the area around BJs and restaurants along 153 (where sales taxes are currently collected) rather than the entire TIF boundary, and wondered about the rationale given potential future development of vacant properties. Finance Reports - Ellen Leo (C of Chattanooga) presented the BW Progress Report, noting no changes since last presentation: 99.0% of contingency spent, with two remaining MOUs (one with $215,000 unspent, one with $5 million untouched). The Economic Development Program Summary showed $4.07 million in cash available for seven active programs. The TIF report indicated no payments received yet this fiscal year (receipts expected annually around this month). The Wastewater Program Summary showed over $100 million spent since July 2023, fully reimbursed by the city, leaving a cash balance of $0. Board members asked no questions. Discussion Items Resolution 1: North River Access Road TIF – Underwriter Engagement - Presentation: Sherita Allen (Senior Advisor for Economic and Workforce Development) presented a resolution to engage Stifel, Nicholas and Company Incorporated as underwriters for bonds related to the North River Commerce Center Industrial Park TIF. The developer had previously amended the economic impact plan to allow broader uses, necessitating restructuring of financing. A memo from legal counsel (Mark Mamantoff, Bass, Berry & Sims, April 14, 2026) stated the engagement is preliminary and non-binding; compensation only payable if closing occurs. - Discussion: Members asked whether the board had done similar refinancing before (staff indicated it was a first due to the changed TIF structure). Clarification was provided that the developer is responsible for hiring Stifel, but the board must approve the engagement because public monies are involved. The resolution passed unanimously with no opposition. Resolution 2: Northgate Mall TIF – Intergovernmental Sales Tax Agreement - Presentation: Sherita Allen explained that this resolution approves an intergovernmental financial assistance agreement between the city and IDB for sales tax revenues to supplement property tax increments for the Northgate Mall redevelopment. The sales tax area is limited to a “crescent” of existing businesses that are fully operational and predictable, rather than the entire TIF district where construction phasing would make revenues uncertain. The agreement was originally overlooked when the development agreement was approved; it does not impose new commitments on the board. - Discussion: A member asked why the agreement was brought after city council approval (staff clarified it was approved concurrently but the IDB piece was missed). Another member asked about caps or limits on the sales tax contribution (staff explained a baseline of existing sales taxes is maintained; only incremental revenue above that is captured). A member expressed concern that the TIF might not generate enough incremental property tax revenue without the sales tax supplement; staff confirmed that because the mall is a declining asset, property taxes have been decreasing, so sales tax is needed to reach the projected $8.7 million in infrastructure costs. Staff noted similar sales tax supplements are used in other TIFs (e.g., stadium, band). The resolution authorizes the board chair to sign the agreement, which also requires the mayor’s signature. Passed unanimously. Small Business Incentive Grant – Calibu Paper Products - Presentation: Winston Brooks (Director of Economic Development, Entrepreneurship) introduced Calibu Investments LLC, doing business as Calibu Paper Products. Owner Hirend Desai described starting the business in March 2025, now with 6–7 employees. The company produces paper products (toilet tissue, kitchen towels, napkins) for hospitality and hopes to expand into janitorial supply, potentially adding 15+ employees. The $9,174 grant—from a municipal grant program administered by the IDB—will be used for marketing to janitorial suppliers. Desai noted that incentives in North Georgia are more generous but he chose Chattanooga out of personal commitment. A board member (self-described in the paper converting industry) commended the business and moved approval. Passed unanimously. Correction/Clarification on North River Access Road TIF Resolution - Clarification: Matt Phillips (Rise Partners, developer) corrected earlier statements about the underwriter relationship. The IDB, not the developer, is the bond issuer and must engage the underwriter. The engagement letter is to be signed by the board chair. The underwriter’s fee is limited to 2.5% of the bond par amount, paid from the bond proceeds. The board will need to return to approve the final bond package before closing. Members confirmed that the $8.75 million in public infrastructure costs are certified and that the notes will be refinanced through the bond issuance. Key Outcomes - Approval of Minutes: Unanimously approved. - Resolution 1 (North River Access Road TIF – Underwriter Engagement): Passed unanimously (voice vote, no opposition). The board chair is authorized to sign the engagement letter with Stifel, Nicholas and Company. - Resolution 2 (Northgate Mall TIF – Sales Tax Agreement): Passed unanimously. The board chair authorized to sign the intergovernmental financial assistance agreement. - Small Business Incentive Grant (Calibu Paper Products): Awarded $9,174 unanimously. - Next Steps: For the North River TIF, Stifel will market the revenue stream and prepare a bond proposal to be brought back to the board for final approval. For Northgate Mall, the sales tax agreement formalizes revenue collection for infrastructure reimbursement. The board adjourned after all business.

The Chattanooga Beer Board convened on April 16, 2026, at 9 a.m. to consider beer permit applications, violations, and enforcement matters. The meeting included approvals, deferrals due to pending inspections, a discussion of previous violations, and a lengthy debate over an executive order and its impact on a cited establishment. Consent Calendar - Minutes of April 2, 2026: Approved unanimously (6-0). - Temporary Beer Permits Approved by Regulatory: - Association for Visual Arts – Four Bridges Art Festival (Sarah Moore, organizer; 1801 Reggie White Boulevard; multiple dates). - Smart Music Project Chocolate (Robert Davis, organizer; 20 Chuchu Avenue; April 25th). - Chattanooga Concessions and Catering LLC (Denise Fryer, owner; 2632 Pipeway; Beer 1389). - CCBC Foundry District LLC d/b/a Creature Comforts Brewing Company (Adam Bucham, owner; 2666 Pipeway; Beer 1404). - New Temporary Beer Permit Applications Approved by Regulatory: - Creative Discovery Museum – Drink and Discover (TE 129). - Tennessee River Gorge Trust – Another Gorgeous Evening (Alicia Hickson, organizer; 3104 Scenic Waters Lane). Public Comments & Testimony - Sergeant David Cowan (Chattanooga Police Department): Addressed a complaint about Shady’s Corner, reporting that from July 31, 2024, to July 31, 2025, police issued 721 citations (moving violations, parking violations, warnings), towed 65 illegally parked vehicles, and responded to 394 calls for service (most frequently for improperly parked autos). He stated that officers continue to patrol the area and that Shady’s has been receptive to noise complaints. - Eddie Davis (Tri-Star Beverage): Presented a letter from the mayor’s office (via Aaron, GM of Champions) asserting that Champions could sell beer under an executive order. He sought the board’s opinion on whether the letter authorized sales despite a pending citation. Discussion Items - Beer Permit Applications: - Hatch Outfitters LLC (Beer 1394): Passed to May 7, 2026, meeting (background check in progress). - Vision Hospitality Management LLC d/b/a Barfield and Suites (Beer 1369; 40 Starview Lane): Passed to May 7, 2026, or regulatory approval (on hold by building). - Banazakra Enterprise Inc. d/b/a MAPCO 863 (Beer 1401; 6120 Highway 58): Applicant Mohammed Jamil testified the building inspection item was fixed and awaiting re-inspection. Building signed off that morning; now in legal review. Passed to May 7, 2026, or regulatory approval. - Palo Dura Presents LLC d/b/a Chattanooga Market (Beer 1402; 1801 Reggie White Boulevard): Applicant Chris Thomas stated the permit expired December 2024 due to a missed email renewal. He noted the venue is city-owned and that in the past building inspection was not required for outdoor events. The board deferred to May 7, 2026, or regulatory approval after building and legal sign-off. - Council Fire Club Inc. (Beer 1403; 100 Council Fire Drive): Applicant Frank Proctor stated the fire marshal had approved, but the application was on hold by building (inspector unavailable due to staff shortage). Deferred to May 7, 2026, or regulatory approval. Zach (city staff) abstained from the vote; motion passed 5-0. - Ginny’s Seafood at Cambridge LLC (Beer 1403; 6011 Chesterton Way, Unit 103): Applicant Quan Chen was told the application was on hold by building, but staff confirmed approvals from building and legal. The beer permit was approved. - Previous Beer Violation Report (Hearing Officer Rachel Hodges, February 19, 2026): Four fines of $1,000 each were recommended: (1) Cabana’s Night Club & Event Center (telephone reports of disorder), (2) Mexiville Mexican Restaurant (operating without a beer permit), (3) Chi Cheese Chicken LLC d/b/a Chi Cheese on Market Street (operating without a beer permit), and (4) Cabana’s (operating without a beer permit). Jesus Serrano appeared to pay all four fines. The board debated whether an executive order (see below) might retroactively waive the “operating without a permit” fines. The board decided to accept payment for the disorder citation but deferred decision on the other three pending legal clarification. - Executive Order 2603 (Temporary Enforcement Amnesty): The board extensively discussed an executive order issued March 31, 2026, granting a 15-day amnesty (extendable) for businesses with expired beer permits to continue selling while their applications are pending, provided they had a valid permit at some point since January 1, 2024, and submitted a complete application. A letter from the mayor’s office (Chris Anderson) specifically cited Champions (MLK location) as eligible. Members expressed concern that the order was not widely publicized and may have given Champions special treatment. The board agreed to invite Chris Anderson to the May 7, 2026, meeting for direct testimony. Key Outcomes - Beer Permits Approved: Creature Comforts Brewing Company (Beer 1404), Ginny’s Seafood (Beer 1403). - Beer Permit Deferrals (to May 7, 2026, or regulatory approval): Hatch Outfitters (1394), Vision Hospitality (1369), MAPCO 863 (1401), Chattanooga Market (1402), Council Fire Club (1403). - Violation Payment: $1,000 fine for Cabana’s (disorder citation) was accepted; payment for three “operating without a permit” fines was deferred pending legal review of executive order retroactivity. - Executive Order Clarification: The board voted to invite Chris Anderson (mayor’s office) to the May 7, 2026, meeting to explain the executive order and its applicability to pending violations. - Meeting Adjourned: Motion passed unanimously.

The Chattanooga City Council met on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, at 5:46 PM UTC. The meeting began with a special presentation for Arts Week 2026, followed by the election of council officers, discussion and votes on multiple ordinances, resolutions, and purchases. The meeting adjourned without public comment. Special Presentation – Arts Week 2026 Proclamation - Monica Kinsey, Deputy Administrator of Arts, Culture, and Creative Economy, presented a proclamation declaring April 13–19, 2026 as Arts Week in Chattanooga. - She noted that the nonprofit arts and culture sector contributes nearly $200 million annually to the local economy and employs over 3,000 individuals. Since 2022, the Office of Arts, Culture and Creative Economy has supported the arts as a driver of tourism, economic development, and community well-being. - Council members thanked the arts community, including organizations represented in the audience. Election of Council Officers - Outgoing Chairwoman Hill acknowledged Vice Chairwoman Noel, Councilman Dotley, Councilman Henderson, City Attorney Phil Knoblett, and staff. Councilwoman Dotley nominated Vice Chairwoman Noel for chair. Councilman Henderson nominated Councilman Davis. - Roll call vote resulted: Councilman Davis received votes from Councilmembers Elliott, Dotley, Burrs, Clark, Davis, Harvey, and Henderson? (The transcript shows: Elliott, Dotley, Burrs, Noel, Clark, Davis, Harvey, Davis? Inconsistent recording but final tally was 5 for Davis? Actually the vote tally shown: Elliott (Davis), Dotley (Noel), Burrs (Noel?), Clark (Davis?), Davis (Davis), Henderson (Davis), Chairwoman Hill (Davis). Outcome: Councilman Jeff Davis elected chair. - Councilman Davis then opened nominations for vice chair; Councilwoman Hill nominated Councilman Ron Elliott. Councilwoman Dotley moved to close nominations and accept by acclamation; the motion passed. - Outgoing Vice Chairwoman Noel made remarks expressing concerns about the process, equity, and fairness, stating the vote and decisions raised “undertones that raised concerns about equity and fairness” and that there is a “growing divide on this council.” Consent Calendar (Items Approved Without Objection) - Item 7A: Ordinance amending booting and immobilization of vehicles – approved on final reading. - Item 7B: Ordinance closing an unopened right-of-way on Cromwell Road – approved. - Item 8A: Rezone on Russell Avenue and Signal Mountain Road – approved on first reading. - Item 8B: Ordinance abandoning a residential PUD on multiple streets – approved as amended (clerical correction) on first reading. - Item 8E: Rezone at 3404 7th Avenue – approved on first reading. - Resolutions 9B, 9C, 9D, 9E (as amended), 9F, 9G, 9H–O (package), 9P – all approved. - Five purchase items (aerial bucket truck, SPATCO renewal, early learning contract, mobile trailer cameras, police office furniture) – approved. Discussion Items - Item 8C (1107 North Moore Road) – Rezone with conditions. Councilman Clark presented six conditions: max 2.5 stories, 20-foot landscape buffer, no vehicular access to Belvista Drive, max 53 units, max 4 units per massed building, and minimum setbacks as shown on attached figure. Applicant Matt Bedsole noted a water line easement with neighbor Mr. Keith and committed to building a new waterline connection with minimal disruption. Councilman Clark requested a memo documenting that commitment. Councilwoman Hill celebrated the long-standing project as an affordable housing initiative for seniors by Invest Chattanooga. Approved on first reading. - Item 8D (3115 Dwight Street) – Councilman Clark requested a 30-day deferral to May 12, 2026 to allow community input dialogue. Motion approved. - Item 8F (1000 block of Shallow Road) – Rezone with conditions. Opposition speaker Abigail Proctor (neighbor) expressed concerns about proximity to her driveway (within 5 feet), drainage issues, and that four new houses would not fit the character of the road. Vice Chairman Elliott moved to defer one week to April 21, 2026 to discuss compromise with the applicant. Motion approved. - Item 9A (Scenic City Shakespeare park fee waiver) – Councilman Davis requested a one-week deferral to April 21, 2026 to discuss deposit amount with the organization. Approved. - Item 9E (Riverfront Nights) – Councilwoman Dotley moved an amendment to add two dates (June 20 and August 29) and designate May 1st as Armed Forces Day Parade Static Display, increasing total days to 23 and fee waiver to $25,000 with deposit of $25,000. Amendment and main motion passed. - Item 9G (Budget policies) – Councilwoman Hill thanked Budget Chairwoman Dotley for leading adoption of policies for revenue, fund balance stabilization, structurally balanced budget, and one-time revenue use. Approved. Key Outcomes - Councilman Jeff Davis elected Chairperson, Councilman Ron Elliott elected Vice Chairperson for 2026–2027. - Item 8C (1107 North Moore Road) approved on first reading with six conditions; applicant to provide written memo on water line commitment. - Items 8D, 8F, and 9A deferred: 8D to May 12, 8F to April 21, 9A to April 21. - Items 8A, 8B, 8E, and all resolutions (9B–9P with amendment to 9E) passed. - Five purchases totaling over $430,000 approved. - No public comments were made.

The Chattanooga Sports Authority Board met on April 9, 2026, to approve routine items, receive financial and progress reports for the new stadium, and discuss the tax increment financing (TIFF) forecast. The meeting highlighted that the stadium is substantially complete, ahead of schedule, and financially on track. Consent Calendar - Unanimously approved the minutes from the February 12, 2026 meeting. Discussion Items - Resolution SA 042 – Amendment to Declaration of Covenants, Restrictions, and Easements (Venue Area Land): Bill Payne, City Engineer, presented a first amendment to the declaration between the Sports Authority, Foundry P1 Venture LLC, and Chattanooga Professional Baseball LLC. The amendment extends a no-build easement to the public right-of-way, grants air rights for architectural overhangs (approximately two to three feet above the left field concourse), and modifies the video board easement to accommodate the finalized location of a neighboring development. Payne confirmed all parties had agreed. The board approved the resolution unanimously. - Financial Progress Report as of March 31, 2026: Paul Boylan, Finance, presented the balance sheet and budget-to-actuals. The Sports Authority held over $27 million in cash and over $80 million in construction costs, totaling about $107 million in assets. Liabilities include bonds and $3.3 million in retainage. Net income from interest and contributions exceeded $4.3 million, but debt interest expense of $4.9 million resulted in a net loss of $590,000, which was covered by capitalized interest from bond proceeds. The stadium budget of $115 million is 80% spent or encumbered, leaving $23 million; the public infrastructure budget of $10 million is 64% used, leaving $3.6 million. Combined, 78% of the total budget is expended or encumbered. - April Progress Report by Public Works: Bill Payne reported that contractor EMJ achieved substantial completion on April 1, 2026, 40 days ahead of contract schedule, and the certificate of occupancy was obtained. Field installation, ribbon boards, scoreboards, gates, team store, stairs, ramps, and elevators are complete. Riverwalk concrete and gardens are nearing completion. West 26th Street and Pipeway have been paved and striped; ADA parking and lot lighting are installed. The team submitted draws totaling $9.5 million plus an additional $7.8 million in requests. A savings bonus from EMJ and early completion bonus allowed reallocation of funds. The board discussed parking (approximately 2,000 public spaces), team facilities (bullpens under right field concourse, batting cages under third base building), and upgrades over the previous ATT Field (which had 173 of 9 MLB required points). The new facility includes three female locker rooms in anticipation of future requirements. No major hurdles remain; only punch list items remain. - TIFF Update by Charita Allen: Sheree Allen (Senior Advisor, Economic and Workforce Development) presented financing sources for the stadium: Series A bonds (paid by city-county tax increment and sales tax), Series B (team rent), Series C (city increment only), direct placement notes, and team contributions. She reviewed pledge revenues and series A debt service projections for 2026–2028. For 2026, projected revenues ($3.864 million) cover no debt service. For 2027, projected revenues ($5.236 million) exceed the $4.566 million debt service, leaving a carryover of $670,000. For 2028, conservative estimates show revenues sufficient to cover the June 1 payment, but forecasting is deferred until further variables are known in six months. Allen confirmed that development in the district is on track and that city and county officials have resolved concerns raised in a prior letter from Hamilton County, with the county satisfied. Key Outcomes - Unanimously approved Resolution SA 042 (first amendment to declaration of covenants, restrictions, and easements). - Received the financial progress report and budget as of March 31, 2026. - Received the April progress report; noted that the stadium is complete and ready for opening day on April 14, 2026. - Received the TIFF update; noted that revenues are sufficient to cover debt service through 2028. - Board members expressed appreciation for the project team and excitement for the upcoming season.

The Chattanooga City Council met on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, at 7:23 PM. The meeting included a recess for attorney-client privilege, followed by votes on ordinances, resolutions, and committee reports. Key actions included advancing a vehicle booting ordinance amendment, approving multiple appointments and contracts, and expressing disappointment over a developer's failure to appear for an economic development update. Public comments addressed neighborhood cleanups, property complaints, and community recognition. Consent Calendar - Ordinance (First Reading): Closing and abandoning unopened right-of-way in the 4000 block of Cromwell Road (Item 8A) – approved. - Resolutions (Package A & B): Confirming appointments of Jennifer Gregory (District 6) and Christopher Sheet (District 7) to the Board of Zoning Appeals – approved with one abstention. - Resolution C: Authorizing $175,000 for the Builders Blueprint Program (construction trade training) – approved. - Resolution D: Authorizing Family Justice Center to accept a $124,000 continuation grant from Tennessee Office of Criminal Justice – approved. - Resolutions E, F, G: Confirming reappointment of Santosh Sandkar, Chris Sogden, and Harriet Stokes to the Metropolitan Airport Authority – approved. - Resolution H: Authorizing $650,000 subrecipient agreement with Community Haven for community patrol and workforce development targeting justice-involved youth – approved. - Resolutions I–M (Package): Various public works and parks contracts including John A. Patton Ballfield improvements ($825,541), Summit landfill fence replacement ($296,000), adoption of historic guidelines, DRC interior improvements ($210,230), and custodial cleaning contract increase ($679,392) – approved. - Purchases (7 items): Included equipment maintenance ($586,000 annual), bagged ice ($50,000 annual), grounds maintenance ($156,000 annual), biosolids handling ($6,382,480 annual), bucket truck ($215,100), rescind/re-award of F550 CCTV truck ($389,013), and parasitic acid ($895,000 annual) – all approved. Public Comments & Testimony - Montreal Bessley (District 7): Invited the council to a community cleanup in Alton Park on April 18, 9 AM–1 PM, starting at Cocoa Cafe. - Unidentified 82-year-old woman (District 7): Presented photos of tree cutting and trespassing on her property. Expressed safety concerns and frustration. Councilman Elliott suggested filing a police report; she stated she had called the police. - Janice Gooden (District 8): Noted that Women’s History Month and National Social Work Month were not recognized in March. Paid tribute to several deceased community women including Dr. Tommy Brown, Mrs. Forrestine Lockhart Haynes, Mrs. Dorothy Pride, and Jeanette Dodds. Discussion Items - Booting/Immobilization of Vehicles (Item 7A – Final Reading Amendment): Councilman Clark introduced an amendment (Version 11) to add a structured repayment plan for immobilized vehicle owners: a $75 booting fee with a 25% initial down payment and a payment plan administered by CARTA. The city attorney noted the amendment is a significant change requiring it to go back to first reading. CARTA representative Britt Matthews confirmed the authority is comfortable handling payment plans. Councilman Burrs requested a review after six months. Council approved Version 11 (first reading), requiring a second reading next week. - Planning & Zoning Committee (Chairwoman Burrs): Reviewed several items for future first readings. Items 2026-0018 and 2026-0020 (District 7) were deferred to May 5, 2026, at Councilwoman Dotley’s request. Item 2026-0019 (1107 Northmore Road) – a request to lift and amend PUD conditions – was discussed with condition changes to allow 53 smaller homes; Councilman Clark noted additional conditions regarding landscape buffering and stormwater drainage still need to be confirmed. Item 2026-0027 (3404 7th Avenue) – rezoning from RN2 to RN3 for a quadplex – staff recommended TRN1 zone instead; council will follow that recommendation. - Economic Development Committee (Chairman Elliott): A presentation on the Bend development by Urban Story Ventures was scheduled but the developer did not attend. Councilman Elliott and Councilwoman Dotley expressed strong disappointment. Discussion ensued about the council’s subpoena power. The developer is expected to appear at the Industrial Development Board meeting in May. Council agreed to postpone further action until after leadership elections next week. Key Outcomes - Vehicle Booting Ordinance (Item 7A): Version 11 passed on first reading (unanimous). A second reading is required next week due to the amendment. - Planning & Zoning Deferrals: Two items (0018 and 0020) deferred to May 5, 2026. - Economic Development: Urban Story Ventures to be rescheduled after leadership elections; council will consider subpoena if necessary. - Board Appointments: Jennifer Gregory and Christopher Sheet confirmed to BZA. Three airport authority reappointments confirmed. - Purchases and Contracts: All seven purchase requests and resolution package I–M approved. - Future Agenda: Next meeting on April 14, 2026, at 2 PM (no recess due to Lookouts stadium opening). Includes Arts Build presentation, election of officers, community development committee cancellation, and multiple planning items under first reading.