Public Meetings - Chattanooga, Tennessee

The Passenger Vehicle for Hire Board met on January 8, 2026, at 3:30 PM. The meeting included approval of minutes, driver permit renewals, a violation case against American Tow and Recovery, and recommendations for taxi rate increases. The board also discussed an ongoing lawsuit and procedural matters. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The board approved the minutes from the previous meeting unanimously. - Driver Permit Renewals: Inspector Moser reported zero new temporary permits issued. Three renewal requests were received from Mercury Taxi, Nuga Taxi, and AV Taxi. All fees and paperwork were confirmed paid and completed. The board approved the renewals unanimously. Discussion Items - Violation Case – American Tow and Recovery: Inspector Moser presented a case involving American Tow and Recovery for failing to report a non-consent tow from private property, as required by Section 35171. The incident occurred in September 2025: a vehicle was towed from a church at 3701 West Avenue on September 17, 2025, at 12:00 PM. The driver did not notify the Hamilton County 911 dispatcher within one hour. The vehicle owner, Linda Coddle, reported her car stolen after returning from out of town and later discovered it at American Tow’s lot. The ignition was broken, and the interior was rummaged. The vehicle was released without charge once the error was discovered. Attorney Dan Ripper, representing American Tow, acknowledged the violation but presented mitigating factors: the driver was terminated, remaining drivers were re-educated on notification requirements, and a new office verification process was implemented to catch future failures. The board discussed the three-strike policy and noted a prior violation in April 2023 (different nature). The board voted to issue a warning, treating this as a first offense under the notification requirement. - Taxi Rate Increase Recommendation: Jonathan Easter of Nuga Taxi requested the board revisit a recommendation for taxi rate increases, which had been previously discussed. He noted ongoing discussions with Councilman Ron Elliott and Chris Anderson from the mayor’s office, but no response had been received. The board voted to recommend a taxi rate increase to the city council. - Cost of Living Increase for Toll Rate: The board voted to recommend a 3% increase in the toll rate for January 2026, as previously discussed in October 2025. - Lawsuit Between Mercury Companies: Jonathan Easter reported an oral ruling in the lawsuit between Mercury companies (court date December 19, 2025) but no written order yet. The board had placed the related public hearing on hold pending legal guidance. A motion was passed to add the case to the February 2026 agenda. - Procedural Question: Mark Shacklet of Chakra Torn and Recovery asked whether the 3% increase recommendation needed to go through the city attorney’s office. The board noted that Chris Anderson had indicated the process would involve the city attorney’s office to draft an ordinance. Key Outcomes - Motion to approve meeting minutes passed unanimously. - Motion to approve driver permit renewals (Mercury Taxi, Nuga Taxi, AV Taxi) passed unanimously. - Motion to issue a warning to American Tow and Recovery for failure to report a non-consent tow (second violation overall, but treated as first under notification) passed unanimously. - Motion to recommend a taxi rate increase to the city council passed unanimously. - Motion to recommend a 3% cost-of-living increase for toll rates to the city council passed unanimously. - Motion to add the Mercury CAV vs. Mercury Transportation lawsuit to the February 2026 agenda passed unanimously. - Meeting adjourned.

The Chattanooga Beer Board convened on January 8, 2026, at 13:55 UTC. The meeting covered routine approvals, board discussion on state nuisance law and local brown bag ordinances, and a contested violation hearing for Cabanas Nightclub & Event Center regarding operating without a beer permit. The board voted to impose a $1,000 fine, overriding the hearing officer's recommended $500 penalty. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The board approved the minutes from the December 18, 2025 meeting (motion carried unanimously). It was noted that the minutes were not available for the absent member, but the approval was still valid. - Beer Application – Uptown Reload: Nathan Bedford LLC, doing business as Uptown Reload (1335 Glass Street, Consumer District), received approval for a change of name and ownership. No police objections were raised. - Temporary Beer Permits: None. - New Beer Applications: None. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made at the meeting. Discussion Items - State Nuisance Law (TCA 29-3-201): Board member Zach brought up a state law allowing 10 or more citizens to bring a public nuisance action in Chancery or Circuit Court. He suggested the board could inform communities of this avenue. The city attorney clarified that the board cannot offer legal advice and that the law applies to citizens, not the board itself. The board decided not to pursue further action. - Brown Bagging Enforcement: A board member asked about the city's brown bag ordinance and enforcement. The city attorney confirmed that a separate brown bag permit is required (even for businesses with a liquor license) and that an application process was created within the last year. Sergeant Cowan stated that his office has not received complaints about brown bagging, but spot inspections are conducted when aware of violations. The chair emphasized that the board's purview is limited to beer permits. - Shady Corner / Play’s Corner: Zach asked about the status of a previous request for cameras at Play’s Corner. Sergeant Cowan explained that he cannot request cameras; camera placement is crime- and community-driven based on statistics. Neighborhood associations can request cameras from the police department. The city attorney reminded the board to stay within its lane of beer permit matters. Cabanas Violation Hearing (Operating Without a Beer Permit) - Background: Cabanas Nightclub & Event Center (located on Rossville Avenue) was cited for operating without a valid beer permit. The permit expired on December 31, 2024. The business closed from March to August 2025 for sprinkler installation and reopened selling beer without a permit from August until November 2025, when Sergeant Cowan issued a violation. An administrative hearing on December 18, 2025, resulted in a recommended $500 civil penalty. - Representative’s Testimony: The representative (identified as Esquivel, who stated he was a co-owner) explained that he was unaware of the renewal process specifics and that the business had been serving only liquor since the violation. He acknowledged operating without a beer permit for about five months. - Board Deliberation: Some members argued the violation was knowing and prolonged. A motion to not affirm the $500 fine failed (4 yes, 3 no – needed 5 votes). A subsequent motion to impose the maximum $1,000 fine passed (5 yes, 1 no). The board also noted that the representative had misrepresented his ownership status (city documents show Gabrielle as the sole owner). The board directed that the ownership issue be resolved immediately. Key Outcomes - Cabanas Fine: The board sustained the violation and imposed a $1,000 civil penalty (maximum allowable). The fine must be paid within seven days. The city attorney will prepare the order. - Ownership Issue: The board noted the discrepancy in the representative’s claimed ownership. The business must correct its ownership records with the city. - No Other Actions: No further business was brought before the board. The meeting adjourned, followed by a training session.

The city council met on January 6, 2026, at 2:00 PM (strategic planning) followed by the regular meeting. The agenda included final reading of ordinances, first reading items, resolutions, purchases, and committee reports. Notable highlights included a presentation of the fire department's 2026-2028 strategic plan, discussions on several zoning cases, and public comment on homelessness displacement. Consent Calendar - Approval of minutes from previous meeting. - Final reading of an ordinance regarding horse-drawn carriages (7A) and a rezoning at 4272 Bonnie Oaks Drive (7B) – both passed unanimously. - An ordinance closing and abandoning unopened alleyways on Georgetown Road (8A) passed. - An ordinance amending speed on Third Street (8C) passed. - Multiple resolutions were approved as a package: confirmation of David Hudson to the Industrial Development Board (9A); resolution urging IDB to include provisions in the CBL development agreement for Northgate mall redevelopment (9B alternate version); donation agreement for James A. Henry building (9C); audit services contract with Henderson Hutcherson and McCullough (9E); library technology grant acceptance (9F); and appointments to various boards (9G through 9N). - Resolutions under public works (9O, 9P, 9Q) and wastewater (9R, 9S) were approved. Public Comments & Testimony - Anna Galladay (District 8) spoke regarding the displacement of at least 40 humans and 20 dogs from an encampment on Hooker Road (District 7). She stated that the city had provided notice and some transitional options, but transitional housing is full. She criticized the lack of adequate shelter options and referenced the failed plan for a low-barrier 24-hour shelter at 710 East 12th Street, noting $2.8 million in ARP funds were set aside but the plan was stopped by neighborhood opposition. Discussion Items - Fire Department Strategic Plan (2026-2028): Chief Knowles presented a three-year strategic plan, the first of its kind. He summarized 2025 statistics: over 22,000 calls, 1,016 fires (down 15% from 2024), 10,018 rescue/EMS calls (increase of about 2,000), 1,102 motor vehicle accidents (down 700), and 1,578 assisted citizen calls. The plan focuses on four themes: operational excellence, community trust and engagement, wellness, and organizational resilience. Goals include expanding the connect program, modernizing systems, investing in officer development, and planning for new fire stations. The plan was developed with input from all firefighters across all shifts. - Planning and Zoning Committee (chaired by Councilwoman Burrs): Several rezoning and ordinance amendment cases were discussed: - Dodds Avenue rezoning (Item B under first reading): Rezone from heavy industrial to commercial corridor for a grocery store/restaurant. Staff recommended approval; opposition from a neighbor about traffic. Planning commission recommended approval. - East 12th Street rezoning (RN2 to RN3) for an additional housing unit: Staff recommended approval with conditions (max 3 units, height 2.5 stories). Opposition regarding alley access and sight lines. Councilman Elliott asked for contact info for the opponent and applicant. - North Chattanooga rezoning (RN15 to TRN1): Applicant proposed single-unit dwelling only; planning commission recommended approval with that condition. Opposition about multi-unit potential and property values. - Chamberlain Avenue rezoning (RN15 to RN13) for two homes: Staff recommended approval; opposition wanting single-unit maintenance. Councilman Elliott noted applicant had not contacted him. - Lifting conditions for Erlanger East hospital expansion (three ordinances): Staff recommended lifting old growth-control conditions because landscape ordinance now applies. Opposition from two nearby residents but planning commission recommended approval. - Ordinance amendment on vested rights (text amendment): Addresses state law changes (Public Chapter 465) where vested rights trigger upon submission of complete applications, not just approval. Discussion on whether a developer without property ownership can trigger vesting; council requested more analysis. - Ordinance amendment adding graphics for lot measurements and building height: To clarify measurement of setbacks and average grade. No questions. - Special Exception Permit for liquor store at 4850 Highway 58: Councilman Clark expressed concerns about proximity to CSLA school (100 feet over the 200-foot minimum, but questioned measurement from the nearest property line). He noted lack of timely notification and requested deferral. The item was deferred to January 13, 2026. - Purchases: Approved three purchases: wastewater centrifugal fans ($79,900), playground equipment at Heritage Park ($81,200), records management software ($218,177.89), Bobcat skid steer ($58,697.04), emergency lighting packages ($157,462.93), and renewal of pool chemicals contract with 9% increase ($87,200). Councilman Clark questioned the rationale for increases and whether rebidding might yield lower costs. Key Outcomes - Fire Department Strategic Plan: Presented and discussed; no vote required, but the plan was received as information. - Liquor store special exception: Deferred to January 13, 2026. - Curtis Street rezoning (8B): Deferred to January 13, 2026. - All other items on consent and resolutions were approved unanimously. - Next steps: Planning Commission meeting on January 12; Community Development Committee meeting on January 13; Education and Innovation Committee meeting on January 27.

This strategic planning meeting of the Chattanooga City Council convened on January 6, 2026, at approximately 1:57 PM EST. With Chairwoman Hill and Vice Chair Noel absent, the council first elected a chair pro tem before proceeding to approve the previous meeting's minutes. The main agenda items were presentations on the Rain Smart environmental initiative and the Sunbelt Atlantic Passenger Rail Corridor project. The council discussed program compliance, aesthetics, and economic impacts, and recessed before a 3:30 PM regular meeting, with an attorney-client session planned. Discussion Items Election of Chair Pro Tem - Councilmember Hill and Vice Chair Noel were absent. Citing Section 8.3 of the city charter and Robert's Rules, the council held a special election and appointed a chair pro tem for the meeting. A motion was made, seconded, and approved unanimously. Approval of Minutes - A motion to approve the minutes from the last meeting was made, seconded, and passed without objection. Rain Smart Program Presentation - Haley Hamblin (Water Quality Specialist, Stormwater Division) and Isabel (Watershed Project Coordinator, Waterways) presented the Rain Smart Rewards program, a stormwater management initiative funded by the stormwater fee. The program is mandated by the MS4 (Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System) permit and aims to reduce runoff, improve water quality, and provide education. Key points: - Green infrastructure (native plants, rain gardens, rain barrels, stream bank repair) reduces stormwater runoff and pollutants. - The program has captured over 21,000 gallons of stormwater in a one-inch rain event across 95+ native gardens, saving the city approximately $28,000 in infrastructure costs. - New maintenance guidelines define clear borders, plant height limits (10 inches near sidewalks), and a compliance process with code enforcement. Homeowners must sign a five-year maintenance agreement. - The program also offers a stormwater fee discount (25%–75% off) through Waterways' certification. - Councilmember Harvey expressed support for the program but raised concerns about aesthetics and compliance. He noted that some native plantings appear overgrown and urged that the program follow the same overgrowth rules as other residents. He requested data on job creation from the program and suggested that non-compliance guidelines be made public and include permanent expulsion after three violations. - Councilmember Claw (or Plough) asked about the enforcement process and the number of times a property can fall out of compliance before removal. The presenters stated that three violations are the internal threshold but that this has not been publicly communicated. Councilmember Claw recommended including that in published materials. - Councilmember Harvey also asked about the overgrowth code and the definition of noxious weeds, noting that the current ordinance does not define it. The presenters agreed that the code needs revision. - The council encouraged the presenters to clarify compliance rules and to share data on economic impacts. Passenger Rail Initiative Presentation - Ellis Smith presented an update on the Sunbelt Atlantic Passenger Rail Corridor, a four-city consortium (Chattanooga, Atlanta, Nashville, Memphis) led by Chattanooga. The project proposes using existing CSX freight rail lines to add passenger service, primarily by building sidings and double tracks to allow freight trains to yield to passenger trains. Key points: - The project is in Step 1 (scoping/business plan) and is entering Step 2 (project planning), which will cost approximately $5 million (10% non-federal match). - The corridor is identified as a Tier 1 priority by the Tennessee Advisory Commission on Intergovernmental Relations (TACIR), with an estimated $20 billion economic impact. - The service would connect Chattanooga to Atlanta (about 2 hours) and Nashville, with potential stops in Dalton, Calhoun, Murfreesboro, etc. Express and local routes are envisioned. - A compact (Sunbelt Atlantic Rail Compact) is being formed to sustain the effort beyond mayoral term limits. - Councilmember Harvey asked about potential impacts on the Chattanooga Airport; Smith responded that the airport supports the idea, as a station near the airport would feed passengers. Travel time to Atlanta would be about 2 hours, depending on stops. Fares are not yet determined. - Councilmember Harvey also asked about station locations, noting the nostalgia of the Choo Choo but practical considerations near the airport. Smith mentioned that grade crossings are a major factor in speed and cost. - Councilmember Harvey asked what the council can do to help; Smith requested continued encouragement and communication with state legislators about the need for state investment. - The project timeline is funding-dependent. If all funds were available now, completion could be 5–7 years. Step 2 is expected to take 1–2 years. Key Outcomes - A chair pro tem was elected for the meeting. - The minutes of the previous meeting were approved. - The council received the Rain Smart and Passenger Rail presentations with no formal votes. - Councilmembers directed Rain Smart staff to publish clear compliance and expulsion guidelines and to share economic impact data. - The council will hold an attorney-client session after the recess and before the 3:30 PM regular meeting. - The strategic planning meeting recessed at approximately 3:00 PM, with the regular council meeting scheduled for 3:30 PM.

The Chattanooga Industrial Development Board met on January 5, 2026, at 15:52 UTC. The meeting was called to order with a quorum present. Minutes from the December 1, 2025 meeting were approved unanimously. Consent Calendar - Approval of the December 1, 2025 meeting minutes (no discussion, unanimous vote). Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public addressed the board. Discussion Items - Quarterly Finance Report (Elon Leo, Finance Department): Presented reports on the VW Grant (no activity), Economic Development Program Summary (returns of $358,000 from a bridge loan and $1.3 million city appropriation to Renewing Chattanooga Fund; total available $3.8 million), TIFF (collected $8,000 for Northgate Mall; available cash $156,000), and Wastewater Program ($1.3 million spent in December awaiting reimbursement). - Quarterly Project Update (Mark Heinzer, Wastewater Department): Update on Class A Progressive Design Build project for wastewater treatment capacity. Basis of Design Report due January 30, 2026; 60% design completion expected in August 2026. Project is on track despite a one-month delay. - Northgate Mall TIFF Amendment (Sharita Allen, Economic Development): Resolution to approve an amendment reducing the maximum TIFF from $9.2 million to $8.7 million, as recommended by a third-party review and approved by City Council. Board members discussed recent property sales nearby and a forthcoming City Council resolution urging public engagement on development. The resolution was approved unanimously. - North River Access Road TIFF Amendment (Sharita Allen): Resolution to amend the development agreement and TIFF documents to extend the development timeline and broaden permitted uses (excluding hospitality and retail) on remaining parcels. Two buildings have been completed; the change allows office, medical, and other non-industrial uses. Principal amounts remain unchanged. Approved unanimously. - Wildflower Development Special Assessment Financing (Hanukkah Henderson, Housing Finance): Resolution of intent to reimburse the developer for public infrastructure costs using potential special assessment bond financing, capped at $10 million. The resolution preserves federal tax options and does not commit the city or IDB. Extensive discussion on the new state law (REIDA), the special assessment mechanism, and public benefit (affordable housing). The board expressed concerns about transparency and the need for education. Motion to approve carried. - Other Business (Melanie): Raised concerns about public access to presentations (not posted, unclear on video) and transparency in procurement (software contract awarded without apparent RFP). Requested that presentations be posted online and that IDB processes be more open. Also requested an update on a potential IDB staff position. Staff committed to presenting on procurement processes and staffing research in February. Key Outcomes - Three resolutions were approved: Northgate Mall TIFF amendment (unanimous), North River Access Road TIFF amendment (unanimous), and Wildflower Development intent to reimburse (passed with majority vote). - Board directed staff to improve public access to meeting presentations (post online) and to provide education on special assessment financing at a future meeting. - Staff will present a review of IDB staffing and procurement processes at the February 2026 meeting.

The Chattanooga Beer Board held its regular meeting on December 18, 2025, at 9:00 AM. The meeting included approval of previous meeting minutes, consideration of new beer permit applications, and a brief discussion of a pending application awaiting building inspection. No public comments or hearing applicants were present. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes – The board unanimously approved the minutes from the November 20, 2025, meeting and the December 4, 2025, meeting. Both motions carried with no opposition. Discussion Items - Beer Applications Approved by Regulatory – The board noted that the following applications had been cleared by regulatory review: - Chattanooga Firefighters Association Holiday Block Party (Beer 1373) - Logan’s Roadhouse Enterprises LLC dba Logan’s Roadhouse 514 (Beer 1374) - Playwash Pint LLC dba Playwash Pint (Beer 1377) - New Beer Applications 1. Ruby Krupra Inc. dba 7C Smoke Shop (Beer 1364) – Change of ownership. Approved by regulatory. No one present. Approved. 2. Nathan Benford LLC dba Uptown Reload (Beer 1365) – Change of ownership. Awaiting final sign-off from the building inspector. The applicant, Mr. Benford, was advised that the building inspector had reported unanswered calls for an inspection appointment. Board urged him to contact the inspector to move the application forward. Not yet approved. 3. Triple Kings Delhi LLC dba Triple Kings Delhi (Beer 1376) – Applicant Sam Sale described the business as a convenience store (800 sq ft plus storage) with plans for a future deli. Board members discussed ID-checking procedures and the responsible vendor program. Mr. Sale indicated his cashier system prompts ID check before completing a sale. The board recommended he sign up for Tennessee’s responsible vendor program (TN.gov). Application approved. 4. YBR 2025 Inc. dba Bonnie Oaks Express (Beer 1379) – Change of ownership. Approved by regulatory. No discussion. Approved. - Clarification on Approval Status – A board member asked for clarity that applications 1, 3, and 4 were approved by regulatory and the board; application 2 was not yet approved. Key Outcomes - Minutes of November 20 and December 4, 2025, unanimously approved. - Beer permits approved: 7C Smoke Shop, Triple Kings Delhi, and Bonnie Oaks Express. - Uptown Reload permit deferred pending building inspection. - The board announced the next meeting will be on January 8, 2026, at 9:00 AM. - The regular meeting then adjourned, and the board proceeded to the beer violation portion of the session.

The Chattanooga City Council met on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, at 20:22 UTC (local time). The meeting included discussions and votes on multiple agenda items, including a deannexation request, amendments to horse-drawn carriage regulations, zoning changes, a park master plan update, and various routine approvals. The council also heard public comments. Consent Calendar - Minutes from the previous meeting were approved without objection. - Items 7C through 7I (planning items) were approved as a package: zoning ordinance amendments for properties at Ravenia Lane, Barton Avenue, Higgs and Pike, Shallowford Road, Hilltop Drive, Chamberlain Avenue, and a special exceptions permit for a reception facility and drive-through use. - Audit committee and whistleblower ordinance amendments (items 7A and 7B) were approved. - Resolutions for economic development (Tennessee River Soccer premises use agreement), revisions to the employee information guide, parks and outdoors (Mountain Creek quarry purchase funds, DCA payment), and public works change orders (summit of software concession stands ventilation, Walked-in building ACM abatement) were approved. - Five purchases recommended by the purchasing division were approved: security guard services (Collins Protective Services), fire hose (sole source), wastewater renewal (NABCO), fire renewal (Siddins Martin Emergency Group), and Tennessee One Call fee. - Three RFP format determinations were approved: economic development (Tubman site developer), technology services (pension administration software), and wastewater (thermal drying services). Public Comments & Testimony - Anna Galloday (District 8) expressed disappointment that the city ended its contract with Orange Grove for recycling employment, which employed people with disabilities. She requested that the city consider reinstating the contract. She also raised safety concerns about the Main Street railroad underpass (between Slayton and Madison Street), noting that many lights are non-functional, creating a dark and dangerous corridor for pedestrians and cyclists. She asked for repairs and maintenance. Discussion Items - Deannexation Request (Item A): The city attorney recommended denial because a boundary adjustment with the town of Collegedale is being pursued to avoid leaving the property (Chick-fil-A at 8883 Olee Highway) unincorporated. The applicant and Collegedale representatives were not present. The council voted to deny. - Horse-Drawn Carriage Ordinance (Item B): Councilman Henderson introduced an amendment to Chapter 35, Article 6 of the city code. Christopher McKnight from the city attorney's office detailed provisions: adding a "geriatric horse" definition (age 20+), requiring semi-annual vet exams, restricting work for horses with chronic conditions affecting cardiac/respiratory/musculoskeletal systems, lowering temperature limits (max 90°F, min 30°F), limiting speed to a walk, and requiring identification (silver stripe on bridle). For pregnant mares, work is prohibited after 180 days of gestation and for 180 days after foaling; they receive the same protections as geriatric horses. Hoof care must include farrier inspections every 30 days. Councilman Burrs asked about the trigger; Councilman Henderson stated a carriage company owner requested updates, and there were no abuse accusations. Councilman Clark noted proactive measures to avoid issues seen in other cities. The ordinance was approved. - Planning Items – Bonnie Oaks Rezoning (Item E): The applicant (Mike Price, MAP Engineers, representing Groundscapes) requested rezoning of 4272 Bonnie Oaks Drive from RN16 and CC to IH (heavy industrial) with conditions. The site has been used as a construction laydown yard for over 20 years. Conditions include limited hours (7 a.m. to 6 p.m.), allowed uses limited to outdoor storage of landscaping/construction materials, and place of worship. Opposition from Jeanette Starzik (Waterhaven HOA president) requested a deferral due to lack of community awareness and concerns about future uses like an asphalt plant. Councilman Clark supported approval, noting that impacted neighborhoods (Cherokee Woods, Hillcrest Heights, Galen Heights) had been engaged. Councilwoman Hill entertained a motion to approve first reading, which passed with one nay. - Special Exceptions Permit – Liquor Store (Planning Item A & B): Councilman Clark raised concerns about the proximity of a proposed liquor store at 4850 Highway 58, Suite 130, to Chattanooga School for the Liberal Arts. He questioned whether the distance measurement should be from the leasehold line (rear door) or the parking lot. Legal guidance was requested, and the item was placed on future considerations for January 6, 2026. - Carver Park Master Plan Update: April Firth (Parks Administrator) presented the master plan for George Washington Carver Park, funded by a REACH grant. Four options were outlined: Option 1 ($10M) basic revitalization; Option 2 ($15M) adds sports fields; Option 3 ($22M) adds multi-use fields, golf practice zone; Option 4 ($26M) adds aquatic facility. Community priorities include shade, gathering spaces, multi-use pathways, and play areas. The lowest priority was sports courts. Lights at Jim Cotton ball field will be installed in early 2026 using deferred maintenance funds. Key Outcomes - Deannexation (Item A): Denied. - Horse-Drawn Carriage Ordinance (Item B): Approved. - Lee Highway Rezoning (Item C): Deferred to January 20, 2026. - Henderson Avenue Rezoning (Item D): Denied. - Bonnie Oaks Rezoning (Item E): Approved on first reading (one nay). - Planning items C-I and other consent items: Approved. - All resolutions and purchase items: Approved. - RFP format determinations: Approved. - Public comment: Recorded; maintenance requests noted. - Next Meeting: The council will be on hiatus through January 5, 2026, and will reconvene on January 6, 2026, at 5:00 p.m.

On December 16, 2025, the Chattanooga City Council met to receive a strategic update from the Chattanooga Area Regional Transportation Authority (CARTA) and to discuss a proposed amendment to the landscape ordinance. The meeting included presentations by CARTA leadership, council member questions, and a motion to refer the landscape ordinance to the legislative committee. Consent Calendar - The council approved the minutes of the previous meeting without action. Discussion Items CARTA Strategic Update - Charles Frazier, CEO of CARTA, and Johan Denysen, Chairman of the CARTA Board, presented an overview of recent accomplishments and future plans. Mr. Frazier noted that the city’s 2019–2020 consultant, Jarrett Walker, had described the transit system as “a legacy of low expectations and low investment.” - Mr. Frazier outlined three focus areas: establishing a 20-year shared vision (via the Plan Chattanooga document), stabilizing the organization (corrective actions, technology upgrades, diversifying funding), and community engagement (transit tours, classroom training, windshield tours, and a rider advisory committee). - Key statistics shared: - Caravan (door-to-door) ridership increased 54% year-over-year while miles driven decreased from 70,000 to 45,000 per month, achieving record monthly ridership since June 2025. - Fixed-route weekday ridership up 9% year-over-year; weekend ridership highest in four years. - Parking utilization at CARTA garages increased 80% year-over-year, revenue up 46% after implementing first-hour free parking. - The city’s $2.9 million capital match in 2024–2025 leveraged $25.5 million in grants, including $10 million from competitive grants. - Mr. Denysen emphasized that 40% of Hamilton County households earn $20,000 or less annually, and that poor transit limits access to jobs and training. He argued that the system is chronically underfunded and called for viewing transit as an economic enabler rather than a transactional service. - Councilmember Henderson asked about partnerships with Waymo and autonomous vehicles. Mr. Frazier confirmed discussions with the city and UTC on smart grants and autonomous technology, noting that technology could solve first-mile/last-mile challenges. - Councilmember Henderson expressed concern about the lack of a strategic plan linking transit to workforce development and noted that the current system may be “one of the worst in the nation.” Mr. Frazier acknowledged the need for improvement and said the team is committed to change. - Councilmember Elliott stressed the need for a dedicated revenue source for CARTA and asked about the cost of new transit hubs. Mr. Frazier said costs are being quantified and that a downtown transfer center is a priority. Councilmember Elliott encouraged CARTA to bring a hard ask to the council. - Councilmember Clark argued that transit should not be forced on residents and that the return on investment should be framed as economic development, not personal choice. He asked how efficiency savings are reinvested. Mr. Frazier said he would provide details in February. - Councilmember Burris noted the importance of pedestrian connectivity and the cost of car ownership (estimated $12,000/year), and praised the Plan Chattanooga transit layer. - The council thanked CARTA for its work and looked forward to a February presentation on the long-term transit plan. Landscape Ordinance Amendment (Introduced by Councilman Harvey) - Councilman Harvey proposed amending the zoning code to allow registered professional engineers or architects (not just landscape architects) to prepare landscape plans, citing that the previous code allowed this for over 20 years and that the change would cut red tape and help address housing affordability. - The amendment adds “or a registered professional engineer or architect licensed to practice in the state of Tennessee and having competency in landscape plan preparation.” - Councilman Elliott expressed concern about runoff and irrigation issues, and asked whether engineers from other specialties would be competent. Mike Price, an engineer, explained that the same review process at the Land Development Office (LDO) applies regardless of who prepares the plan, and that professionals risk their licenses if they act outside competence. - Councilman Henderson questioned how “competency” is determined and whether the previous change was due to problems at LDO. Chris Anderson (staff) noted that the change was suggested by planning staff and that it has caused a slowdown in housing production, which this amendment seeks to address. - Councilman Burris raised concerns about native plant diversity and the city’s status as a national park city, arguing that landscape architects bring a holistic, ecologically-minded approach. She suggested revisiting native plant requirements over time. - Councilman Harvey reiterated that the amendment does not change the required standards or review process—only who prepares the plan. - The council agreed to move the ordinance to the legislative committee. Councilman Harvey accepted a friendly amendment clarifying that the LDO Director determines competency. Key Outcomes - CARTA’s presentation was received; a detailed long-term transit plan will be presented to the full council in February 2026. - The landscape ordinance amendment was referred to the legislative committee for further review; a date for the committee meeting will be set. - The council noted that board appointments for Nan and Linda (names not fully specified) will be on the January 6, 2026 agenda, along with the Northgate TIFF resolution.

The Chattanooga Sports Authority Board met on December 11, 2025, to review financial progress reports, receive a stadium construction update, and approve scheduling a special meeting to address amendments to covenants for the adjacent private development. Key discussions centered on the stadium's budget, construction timeline, and minor modifications to property agreements. The meeting confirmed the stadium remains on track for first pitch on April 14, 2026. Financial Progress Report - The financial statement showed combined asset accounts of $78 million, liabilities of $97 million, resulting in a negative fund balance of $18 million, attributed to timing differences between capital improvement projects (CIP) and assets. - Operating income at the bottom matched the fund balance. - Budget percentage used: stadium at 76% and 26th Street public infrastructure at 58%. Board members clarified that the 76% figure represents encumbrances (committed funds) rather than completion. Stadium Construction Update - Work progressing daily: field installation begun; interior steel beams painted; standing seam roof and siding installed on powerhouse, pattern shop, and third base buildings; handrails installed on suite and upper suite balconies; elevator installation started in multiple buildings (five total). - Team store construction: modular facility fabrication began off-site; preparation on site underway. - Concrete reuse: stacked slab walls installed using saw-cut concrete from the site, contributing to the project's 30% sustainability goal (currently at 22.6%, unchanged from prior report). - Cash flow tracking: after lagging behind estimates, the project now aligns closely with the cash flow curve and remains within budget. - Site preparation (foundry sands and other materials): $6.7 million of approved draws disbursed out of the $10 million allocation. - Team expenditures: $5.1 million in approved draws, an additional $5.7 million in request notices (obligated but not yet paid), and $8.2 million still under negotiation (e.g., office furnishings). Covenants and Restrictions Revisions - Bill Payne, City Engineer, presented the need for a special meeting to revise existing declarations on the stadium property. The adjacent private development requires an extension of a no-build area on the interstate side and approval of limited air rights for an upper-floor overhang. These changes are minor technical adjustments to align with the private building's design and do not alter property lines or affect stadium operations or construction. - The board approved scheduling a special meeting for January 8, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. to finalize the amended covenants. Team Store and Adjacent Property Clarification - Board members inquired about the team store location. Bill Payne clarified that the team store is situated on adjacent property owned by Pipe Properties (not on stadium property). The team has a lease from Pipe Properties for the store's operations. Tennessee Department of Revenue confirmed that sales tax from the store can be applied toward bond proceeds for the stadium project. Traffic and Transportation Coordination - Bill Payne noted continued meetings with city transportation staff and the signalization contractor to optimize traffic patterns for stadium events, including games. The city's special events committee is also engaged on this topic. Key Outcomes - First pitch confirmed for April 14, 2026 – no delays anticipated. - Special meeting scheduled for January 8, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. to approve amended covenants. - Financial and construction progress is on budget and on schedule. - Board expressed satisfaction with progress and thanked the project team.