Public Meetings - Chattanooga, Tennessee

The Chattanooga City Council convened on July 14, 2026, at approximately 7:20 PM EDT for a regular meeting that included an agenda session, a recess for an attorney meeting, and a business session. The meeting opened with the Pledge of Allegiance, an invocation, and a moment of silence for Kathy Papoy, a longtime city attorney's office staff member. Council members reviewed items on the current and future agendas, received committee reports, and voted on ordinances, resolutions, and purchases. Public Comments & Testimony - Chris Temple (licensed electrical contractor, Beacon Electrical Services) expressed concern about unlicensed electrical work in Chattanooga and proposed that utility workers ask for permits when disconnecting or reconnecting power, a practice already used in Cleveland, Tennessee. He emphasized the safety risks of unlicensed work. - Rodney Roach (recently moved from Denver, Colorado) advocated for a 24-hour center for people with disabilities, mental health issues, and those living in vehicles or homeless. He stated he is not seeking money but donations of computers and services, and has secured commitments from local businesses for food and clothing. He criticized the Chatt Center for closing at 3 PM during hot weather. - Jake Logan (first-time attendee) commented on the potential incorporation of religion (specifically the Ten Commandments) into schools, asking whether Chattanooga schools would participate and urging consideration of including multiple religions. - Joshua David Capellish (veteran advocate and chaplain) announced the Wreath of Honor event on July 16, 2026, marking 11 years since the 2015 Chattanooga terrorist attack. He described his annual run with the American flag and plans to drive four flags coast to coast, and called for better monument upkeep and involvement of youth. Discussion Items - Economic Development Committee Presentation (Commercial Corridor Revitalization Grant Program): Winston Brooks, Director of Economic Development and Entrepreneurship, presented a new grant program targeting non-downtown commercial corridors. The program has four tiers: signage/security cameras (up to $5,000), facade improvements (up to $10,000), storefront activation (up to $25,000, $10/sq ft), and business retention (up to $50,000, $15/sq ft). Funding is $1.3 million from the IDB (Renewing Chattanooga account). Applications will be through a new Civic Serve portal, with third-party administration by the Southeast Tennessee Development District. Council members discussed eligibility, the reimbursement process (100% grant, no reimbursement barrier), and equity concerns. Councilman Clark asked about considerations for minority-owned, women-owned, and veteran-owned businesses, emphasizing inclusivity. Winston Brooks noted that demographic data will be tracked. The program is set to go to the IDB in September. - Future Considerations – Broad Street Improvement Project: Kevin Roy, Chief of Staff, provided an update on a federal earmark of $3.5 million for the Reimagining Broad Street project (Aquarium Way to MLK). The city needs to obligate the funds soon, but the full project costs exceed $20 million. The administration is reworking the strategy and will present a resolution next week. The local match is $875,000, with funds already set aside in a capital projects account. Councilman Clark requested more details on the funding source and project specifics. - Purchases – Public Works Item: Councilwoman Hill asked for details on a $750,000 increase for construction material transport. The administration could not provide specifics and requested to pull the item. The council approved removing it from the purchase list. Key Outcomes - Ordinances on Final Reading: - Item 7A: Franchise for Pipe Properties LLC to construct a roadway at 2501 Chestnut Street – passed (voice vote, all ayes). - Item 7B: Amending city code on technology and credit card fees – passed. - Item 7C: Closing and abandoning a sanitary sewer main on Middle Valley Road – passed. - Ordinances on First Reading: - Item 8A: Rezoning 518 East Manning Street from RN15 to TRN3 (planning item 2026-0086) – passed. - Item 8B: Rezoning 6340 Middle Valley Road from RN2 to RN3 (planning item 2026-0084) – passed. - Item 8C: Rezoning 3714 St. Elmo Avenue and 3717 Tennessee Avenue from CC and RN15 to IMU (planning item 2026-0080) – passed. - Item 8D: Closing an alley on Chamber Street – passed. - Item 8E: Closing part of the unopened 6000 block – passed. - Item 8F: Closing a portion of Divine Avenue and two alleys – deferred to August 4, 2026, per Councilwoman Noel’s motion. - Resolutions: - Item 9A: Renewal of MOU with Hamilton County Department of Education for Opportunity High at the Chris L. Ramsey Senior Community Center – adopted. - Item 9B: Designating the third Friday of July (July 17, 2026) as Parks and Outdoors Day – adopted. Parks Administrator David Johnson reported on recent achievements: over 700 youth in basketball leagues, record golf revenue over $3 million, 200 plants added at Southside Community Park, and 1,200 volunteer hours. - Item 9C: Adopting the Comprehensive Safety Action Plan (CSAP) and Vision Zero policy to reduce traffic fatalities and serious injuries by 2050 – adopted. - Purchases: The first item (public works, construction material transport) was removed from the list. The remaining three items were approved: additional lime kiln dust for wastewater, name change from ENCO to Answer Net for billing, and a $1 million library contract for reading/audiovisual materials. - Committee Reports: Councilman Henderson reported on FY27 budget loose ends, including discussions with 911 communications, a planned $35,000 ARPA allocation for ArtsBuild, a $250,000 one-time allocation for WTCI (PBS affiliate), and a holiday bonus for employees. Councilwoman Hill thanked Ethan Collier for 12 years of service on the Planning Commission. Councilman Clark noted the demolition of the historic Medical Arts Building and the 100-year anniversary of Brainerd Golf Course.

The Form-Based Code Committee met on July 9, 2026, to consider six cases involving modifications to the downtown code. The meeting began with swearing-in of speakers, rules of procedure, and a reading of the downtown code's intent. The committee approved three cases, denied one, and deferred one. All votes were unanimous unless noted. Public Comments & Testimony - Case FBC 26.10 (Medal of Honor Heritage Center): Multiple members of the public spoke in favor. Bill Rains (1129 River Crest Drive) supported the LED screen, emphasizing the need to attract youth and the building's obscured visibility. Charlie Coolidge Jr. (recent Chattanooga resident) urged approval on behalf of veterans and the city's national significance. Linda Moss Mines (city and county historian) argued the screen would connect past and present. No speakers opposed, but the committee read three emails from residents (names not provided) opposing the sign on grounds of protecting the plaza as a public space and concerns about visual clutter. - For other cases, no public comments were offered. Discussion Items Case FC26.1 & 3 Street Way (West Side Revitalization) – Old Business - Applicant: Dina Harvison (Lightfoot Design Group) representing Columbia Residential, with owner Jim Grawley. They requested four modifications: (1) allow a monument sign (pedestal) at the main entrance, (2) reduce the monument sign setback from 18 ft to 5–6 ft, (3) increase monument sign height from 6 ft to 10 ft, and (4) allow skyline signs on buildings facing Interstate 24 (which are four stories; code requires over four stories). - Justification: Site constraints (downward slope, equipment, handicap access) and limited visibility from the highway; the sign is critical to identify the new development and attract residents. The branding was finalized after the February meeting deferral. Committee members noted the steep grade and that the sign would be the only visible identifier from the interstate. No objections. - Outcome: Motion to approve all modifications passed unanimously. Case FBC 26.10 Aquarium Way Unit 104 (Medal of Honor Heritage Center) – New Business - Applicant: Vince Butler (National Medal of Honor Heritage Center). Request to allow a 15 ft x 15 ft LED message center sign (225 sq ft) and to exceed the maximum ground floor sign square footage (48 sq ft allowed). The sign would be mounted above the front doors, visible from the aquarium plaza, with no sound except during events, and turned off at closing (5–6 pm). No commercial advertising; used for educational messages and recipient recognition. - Opposition: The staff read three emails from residents opposing the sign on aesthetic and park-preservation grounds. Applicant responded that the aquarium plaza is not a recognized city park and the sign is not visible from the passage (a city park). Committee discussion raised concerns about precedent, light pollution, pedestrian scale, and enforcement. Tom Mundell (CEO) offered to put restrictions in writing and remove the sign if the building is sold. - Outcome: Motion to deny the modifications (allow message center sign and exceed square footage) passed. Motion to deny: approved. (No second motion; vote was on the denial motion). Case FBC 26.14 1427 Williams Street (First Things First) – New Business - Applicant: Kristen Harris (office manager). Request to exceed maximum ground floor sign square footage (48 sq ft) with a 173 sq ft brick wrap sign featuring new logo and tagline “for the family.” The building is rented; landlord provided support letter. - Discussion: Committee members expressed concerns about the size (173 vs. 48 sq ft) and impact on Williams Street, noting the street is narrow and the sign would be large. Alternatives were suggested: separating the logo from the tagline, calling the tagline part of a mural (since mural rules allow larger non-advertising graphics). Applicant asked for deferral to redesign. - Outcome: Motion to defer granted. Applicant to bring revised design. Case FBC 26.15 1429 Market Street (Spot Design Studio) – New Business - Applicant: Jerry Price (Spot Design Studio). Request to reduce awning clearance from the required 9 ft to 7 ft 8 in above grade due to structural issues (deflecting precast masonry beam). The awning is 3 ft deep, backlit with simple address, no logo. It meets IBC building code and CDOT approval. Precedent photos of nearby awnings were shown. - Discussion: Committee noted the hardship from structural deflection and found the design architecturally appropriate and pedestrian-scaled. - Outcome: Motion to approve the reduction passed unanimously. Case FBC 26.16 1247 Riverfront Parkway (Medical Office Building) – New Business - Applicant: Joe Kreitz (LME Architects). Request to decrease the minimum lot frontage (90% required) to 70% for a second-phase addition to an existing surgical/dermatology center. The building frontage is 360 ft; even at 90% it would exceed 300 ft max, so staff approval could not be used. The previous phase one approval (2020) allowed 40% for phase one but did not cover phase two. Parking needs prevent meeting 90%. - Discussion: The addition will add pediatrics on first floor and offices on second. Committee recognized the operational constraints and that the frontage reduction would allow functional parking. - Outcome: Motion to approve the reduction to 70% passed unanimously. Case FBC 26.17 609 East 11th Street (Change of Use) – New Business - Applicant: Dylan Fuller. Request to decrease minimum ground floor glazing (50%) to the existing condition and increase primary street setback (max 15 ft) to the existing setback for a change of use from an art studio to a gym and café. The building is non-conforming; exterior work includes replacing opaque garage doors with clear doors (improving transparency) and adding an ADA ramp. - Discussion: Straightforward – the building already exists; changes are minor and improve transparency. - Outcome: Motion to approve both modifications (decrease glazing to existing, increase setback to existing) passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - Approved (unanimous): FC26.1 (West Side signs – all four modifications), FBC 26.15 (awning clearance), FBC 26.16 (lot frontage reduction to 70%), FBC 26.17 (glazing and setback modifications). - Denied (unanimous): FBC 26.10 (Medal of Honor Heritage Center’s LED screen and square footage exception). - Deferred: FBC 26.14 (First Things First – sign variance). Applicant to bring a redesigned sign. - The committee noted the next meeting is August 13, 2026.

The IDB met on July 8, 2026, with a quorum of six members. The meeting covered the election of a vice chair, approval of previous minutes, quarterly financial reports, ratification of an option extension for Volkswagen, and a detailed discussion on the Bend development's right-of-first-refusal memorandum and a change-of-control issue. The board also received an update on the Northgate TIF project. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The minutes from the May 4, 2026 meeting were approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Board Member Comment on Erlinger Park: A board member read a letter from Ray Boswell noting that the new Erlinger Park, which the IDB helped finance, does not offer recycling. The member expressed hope that the Lookouts would address this oversight to keep Chattanooga scenic. Discussion Items - Quarterly Reports (Eleanor Lou): Lou presented the VW funding progress report (no activity; $215,000 remaining on the second MOU and $5 million unspent on the third), the economic development program summary ($7.4 million cash on hand across seven programs), and TIF reports (year-to-date and project-to-date revenue and disbursements). The wastewater program summary showed $122 million spent, all reimbursed by the city. Sharita Allen noted that an annual PILOT/TIF report will be presented in August. - Resolution – VW Option Extension: The board ratified the chair's execution of an option extension agreement for Volkswagen property. The option, originally expiring June 30, 2026, was extended to January 15, 2027, allowing VW to decide on additional acreage for expansion. The resolution was approved unanimously. - Resolution – Bend Development Right of First Refusal Memorandum: Representatives from Urban Story Ventures (Jimmy White) presented the memorandum to record the IDB's right of first refusal on Bend properties. Key legal issues discussed: - Guarantee documents: Legal counsel Mark Mametoff reported that a subordination clause had been removed, and a clean signed version would be provided shortly. - Change of control: White acquired additional ownership interests (now 90.5%) in Bend Infrastructure LLC, triggering a request for board consent. White argued control never changed due to veto rights (requiring 85% member approval), but Mametoff noted no operating agreement exists for that entity, making the change-of-control determination ambiguous. A formal letter requesting approval was submitted July 7, 2026, referencing a new entity (For James LLC) that was not in original documents, causing confusion. After debate, the board tabled the change-of-control issue to the next meeting for further clarification. Separately, the board approved the right-of-first-refusal memorandum itself (vote: all in favor). - Future Bend Development: White mentioned plans for a $300 million amphitheater, marina, and retail district, but could not share details due to NDAs. Mametoff noted that any additional incentives would likely require state legislative changes, which could not occur until 2027. - Northgate Project Update: Sharita Allen provided an update from the developer (CBL). One community engagement session was held (June 14), with two more scheduled (July 15 and TBD). Preliminary design, field surveys, and coordination with utilities are underway. The developer has outlined 10 next steps, including final design and contractor pricing. Key Outcomes - Vice Chair Election: Gordon was elected vice chair (motion and second, unanimous). - VW Option Extension Resolution: Approved unanimously. - Bend Right-of-First-Refusal Memorandum: Approved unanimously; the chair/vice chair authorized to execute it. - Change-of-Control Request: Tabled until the next IDB meeting to allow attorneys to clarify documents and ownership structures.

The Chattanooga City Council met on July 7, 2026, beginning at 7:20 PM Eastern. The meeting opened with a moment of silence for recent tragedies, including fires and loss of life. Council heard a presentation on the sister city visit to Wolfsburg, Germany, and a comprehensive safety action plan. After a public hearing on a franchise ordinance, the council voted on numerous ordinances, resolutions, and purchases. Public comments focused on funding for 911 dispatcher pay raises. Special Presentations Sister City Visit to Wolfsburg, Germany - Councilman Cody Harvey presented photos and a plaque from the 15-year sister city anniversary visit to Wolfsburg, Germany, home of Volkswagen world headquarters. Highlighted cultural exchanges and a meeting with Ukrainian refugee Dennis. Comprehensive Safety Action Plan - Karen Rennick presented the plan, developed by the MPO, to adopt a Vision Zero policy aiming to reduce fatal crashes to zero by 2050. The plan identifies 93 fatal crashes in Chattanooga from 2023–2025 and includes 74 specific projects. It also positions the city for federal Safe Streets for All implementation grants. Public Hearing Franchise Ordinance for Pipe Properties (Item 8a) - A public hearing was held on a proposed 40-year franchise to allow a roadway through an existing building (the former U.S. Pipe valve and hydrant building) at 2501 Chestnut Street. No members of the public spoke. The city will maintain surface elements; Pipe Properties will maintain structural elements. Discussion Items Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Ordinance Review - Brian Schultz presented an update on ADU trends since the ordinance was adopted in June 2022. Key data: 206 permits issued through May 2026, 89% detached, average valuation $98,000, average size 625 sq ft. 65% of ADUs are within the urban overlay. Council raised concerns about ADUs being built in front yards, size loopholes (e.g., primary residence at 801 sq ft with ADU at 800 sq ft), and design issues resembling duplexes. Council directed staff to review and propose amendments to strengthen the ordinance. Bloomberg Grant and Interlocal Agreement Clarity - Councilwoman Hill asked about housing of two grant-funded staff for the Love Your Block program; answered that they will be in Neighborhood Services under the Mayor's Office. Discussion on an interlocal agreement with Hamilton County for planning services; council requested removal of gendered language. The resolution passed with that clerical change. Public Comments Hamilton County 911 Dispatcher Pay - Cheyenne Bedell (Hamilton County 911) stated that Chattanooga was notified of needed funding for telecommunicator raises in December 2024, but the city delayed until police and fire raises were implemented. She noted Chattanooga now has the lowest starting pay in the area after Bradley County passed them. The total cost to Chattanooga over four years is under $2 million, spread over four years with the district covering a declining share. - Krista Gillalian (dispatcher for 9.5 years) described the critical role of dispatchers and invited council members to visit the center. She expressed disappointment about misconceptions at the previous meeting. - Executive Director Jeff Carney provided additional context: Chattanooga pays 59% of total dispatcher funding but accounts for 66% of call volume. He noted that a telecommunicator left that day for an $8,000 raise in Walker County, Georgia. The 911 fee increase was vetoed by the governor. Council Vice Chair Elliott acknowledged the issue but suggested the right venue for advocacy is with the mayor's office and the 911 board, not the council at this point. Council Chair noted that the executive director is scheduled to attend a strategic planning meeting in September. Key Outcomes Votes on Ordinances and Resolutions - Ordinance on final reading (amending Parks and Playgrounds code): Passed unanimously. - Franchise ordinance first reading (Pipe Properties): Passed unanimously. - Ordinance amending technology and credit card fee (first reading): Passed unanimously. - Ordinance closing sanitary sewer main on Middle Valley Road (first reading): Passed unanimously. - Resolution for Habitat for Humanity ($40,000 for affordable home ownership): Passed unanimously. - Resolution for Bloomberg grant (Love Your Block: $70,000 mini-grants + $200,000 for fellows): Passed unanimously. - Resolution for interlocal agreement with Hamilton County (planning services): Passed unanimously with a clerical change to remove gendered language. - Resolution for new liquor store special exceptions permit (3208 Amnicola Hwy, Suite B): Passed with one no vote. - Resolution for Riverside Drive soil slope repair contract ($171,127): Passed unanimously. - Resolution for community service program agreement ($60,000): Passed unanimously. - Resolution to renew consent decree program contract (Jacobs Engineering): Passed unanimously. - Resolution for wastewater pump station pre-construction services ($300,000): Passed unanimously. - Resolution for JAG grant ($169,999 for police and sheriff equipment/training): Passed unanimously. Purchases Approved - Elevator/lift maintenance (4-year, $350,000/year): Approved. - Turf maintenance chemicals (4-year, $150,000/year): Approved. - Rescind and re-award grounds maintenance contract to James Works: Approved. - Increase for DTS engineering services ($70,000 increase to $406,750): Approved. Litigation Settlement - City Attorney announced settlement of Snell v. City (Case 24C104) for $175,000, resolved the previous week. Certificate of Compliance - A certificate was issued for Snapdragon Ventures LLC (UNC’s) at 3208 Amnicola Hwy, Suite B, for liquor store operations, meeting state requirements. ADU Ordinance Next Steps - Staff will review comments and propose amendments to address front yard placement, size limits, and design concerns to prevent unintended duplex-like structures.

The Chattanooga City Council held a strategic planning session on the afternoon of July 7, 2026, to discuss the allocation and reallocation of ARPA funds and the city’s historic preservation process. The meeting featured presentations from city staff and council members, with no formal votes taken. Discussions highlighted outstanding ARPA-funded projects, the distinction between local historic zoning and national register designation, and initial steps toward protecting significant landmarks. ARPA Fund Allocation and Reallocation - Kevin and Weston (finance staff) presented an overview: original ARPA award of $38.6 million, with $30 million set aside for the One Chattanooga Relief and Recovery Plan across eight priority areas (homelessness, workforce development, affordable rental/homeownership, entrepreneurship, mental health, public safety, early learning). - Outstanding items: - $1.5 million for digital connectivity at the West Side (Enterprise Center/EPB): modeled after HCS EdConnect but distinct, serving 566 units at One West Side, 876 units in Emma Wheeler, Dogwood Manor, Mary Walker, plus public Wi-Fi. The project was delayed but the contract is executed; deployment is expected by the end of 2026. A council member asked about the duration of connectivity; the presenter noted the original program had a 10-year commitment but will follow up on specifics. - $2.8 million for a low‑barrier shelter: no plan yet; discussion scheduled for August. - $900,000 for Chat 2.0 Chattanooga Future Fund: to be considered later in the week. - $125,000 for extended hours at James A. Henry: already covered in the FY27 budget. - Interest earned ($3.5 million) brought total funds to $42 million. Nearly all has been spent; remaining uncommitted interest is approximately $200,000. - Council control: any deviation from the original plan requires council approval via resolution. The administration intends to fully expend all ARPA money to avoid further resolutions. Historic Preservation Process - Cassie Klein (Historic Zoning Commission staff) and Councilman Clark presented the process for local historic designation. - Local vs. National Register: Local historic zoning (districts/landmarks) protects against demolition and inappropriate alterations. The National Register is honorary and does not provide such protection. - Eligibility criteria: association with significant events or people, distinctive architectural style, work of a significant designer, archaeological significance, or already listed on the National Register. - Applicants: city council, neighborhood associations, property owners, or civic/historic groups. - Process: application → public meeting → Historic Zoning Commission review and recommendation → City Council approval (two readings). A moratorium on permits begins once an application is filed and lasts until council’s decision. - Specific sites discussed: Turkey Foot Hollow (Johnson Cemetery), an active African American cemetery partially within the city and county, owned by the state. Councilman Clark emphasized the need for local designation to protect it from future development. - Councilman Clark proposed a phased approach: first landmarks (low‑hanging fruit such as Civil War sites, African American/Jewish cemeteries, tourist landmarks like the Tivoli, and R.H. Hunt buildings), then districts in a later phase. - Questions arose about private property rights, exemption for properties with demolition orders, and applicability to state/county/federal land. Staff will research legal constraints and report back. - Councilwoman Hill advised starting with non‑controversial landmarks to build momentum and avoid overwhelming staff. - No resolution was introduced, but Councilman Clark will circulate a list of five initial sites (including Turkey Foot Hollow, Lincoln Park, Beck Knob) and work with staff to prepare an application. Key Outcomes - No formal votes were taken. - ARPA: The presentation was received; council will consider future resolutions for remaining allocations. - Historic Preservation: Council expressed support for moving forward with landmark designations. Staff will assist with applications; a resolution to initiate the process is expected at a future council meeting. - Upcoming: A strategic planning session on August 18 for council policy ideas, and a lunch‑and‑learn at Wilcox Bridge on July 14 to discuss bridge repairs.

Chattanooga City Meeting - July 2, 2026\n\nThe meeting convened on July 2, 2026, at 19:33 UTC. The only business recorded was the consideration of the July agenda, which was noted as having no quarrel and was accepted as presented.\n\n Key Outcomes\n- The July agenda was approved without opposition.

The Chattanooga Beer Board met on July 2, 2026, at approximately 12:55 PM. Chair called the meeting to order, noting sign-in requirements for Sunshine Law compliance. The board reviewed several beer permit applications, including a temporary permit for a fundraising event and two applications for expansions. Officers election was postponed until a full board is present. The meeting adjourned after no further business. Pre-Meeting Approvals - Four beer permits were approved by regulatory staff or the chair just prior to the meeting: Beer 1421 (Nine Brothers at 101 West 38th Street), Baby Huey's Beer 1423, Refined Image Beer 1412 (1820 Gun Barrel Road), and Maxivilla Beer 1418 (103 Cherokee Boulevard). These were reported as approved. New Temporary Permit Application - Habitat for Humanity of Greater Chattanooga (represented by Jeff Geer) applied for a temporary beer permit for a fundraising event on September 24, 2026, from 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM at 1826 Reggie White Boulevard (First Horizon Pavilion). The event will showcase financial stability for future homeowners. The board discussed the layout (roped-off areas, ID checks). Zoning was initially not signed off but was approved on the spot by staff. The board voted unanimously to approve the permit (motion by Betsy, seconded, roll call: all yes). New Beer Applications - Tennessee Crown Distributing Company (represented by Jerry Watts) applied for a distributor's beer permit for 3875 North Hearthorn, reflecting an expansion into a new building on the same lot. The application had a hold on zoning approval, but staff indicated it would be signed off that day. No board action required pending final zoning. - JR F M T N LLC dba The Signal (Marathon Acquisitions LLC) applied for a consumer beer permit for 21 Choo Choo Avenue, also an expansion. Zoning and building had not signed off. No representative was present. Board took no action. Discussion Items - Officers Election: The board discussed electing new officers. It was noted that at the prior meeting, they agreed to wait until all new members were present. Since not all new members were present, the election was postponed to the next meeting with a full board. - Board Member Replacement: Zach (outgoing board member) noted he had contacted his city council member about a replacement. The board discussed that historically, members may continue to serve until replaced. Catherine confirmed the bylaws allow this. A training for the board was also mentioned, pending a full board. Key Outcomes - Approved: Temporary beer permit for Habitat for Humanity event on September 24, 2026 (unanimous vote). - No Action Taken: Tennessee Crown Distributing and The Signal applications await final zoning approvals; board will automatically process once clear. - Postponed: Election of officers until a meeting with all new board members present. - Adjourned: Motion to adjourn passed unanimously.

This meeting of the Chattanooga Board of Zoning Appeals was held on July 1, 2026. The board considered a variance request for a setback reduction and a special exception for a drive-thru facility. The meeting also included the approval of minutes, a chairman election, and an ethics training session. Consent Calendar - The June meeting minutes were approved unanimously on a motion by Mr. Manual, seconded by Ms. Rashid. Discussion Items - BZA Case 2636 - 225 Peak Street (Variance for Accessory Structure): Applicant Dale Schmick requested a variance to reduce the side and rear yard setbacks for a proposed metal pergola from 5 feet to 2 feet (later amended to 1 foot) to cover an outdoor kitchen. The property is zoned RM15. The applicant cited exceptional topographic conditions (stormwater runoff from Stringer's Ridge) and the shallowness of the lot as hardships. The applicant's representative, Alan Jones of Stone Creek Consulting, explained that the pergola is part of a stormwater management solution. A letter of support from adjacent property owner Josh Barr was submitted. Board members questioned the hardship justification and noted that the pool and patio had already been constructed, potentially creating the need for the variance. A motion to approve with a condition requiring a survey failed (3-5). A subsequent motion to deny passed (5-3). - BZA Case 2639 - 5943 Hickson Pike (Special Exception for Drive-Thru): Applicant Clint Wolford requested a special exception to allow a drive-thru as an accessory use to a commercial bank in the CC (Commercial Corridor) zone. The property previously had C2 zoning which allowed drive-thrus by right. Staff recommended approval, noting that the use is compatible with the commercial corridor and would comply with all codes. Board members expressed concern that only an artist's rendering was provided, lacking a detailed site plan. The applicant stated the ultimate buyer would build the bank. After discussion, the board voted unanimously (7-0) to defer the case to the August meeting to allow the applicant to submit a detailed site plan. Key Outcomes - Variance denied for BZA 2636 (225 Peak Street): The motion to deny passed 5-3. The applicant must wait 12 months to reapply. - Special exception deferred for BZA 2639 (5943 Hickson Pike): The case was deferred to the August meeting to allow submission of a detailed site plan. - Chairman and Vice-Chair Elections: The board re-elected the current chairman and Mr. Betbees as vice-chair. - Ethics Training: The board adjourned the regular business and conducted an ethics training session.

The Chattanooga City Council met on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, at 7:17 PM (UTC). The meeting included the final reading of the Fiscal Year 2026-2027 operations and capital budgets, approval of several resolutions and purchases, and public comments from Hamilton County 911 dispatchers seeking a pay raise. The council also discussed future agenda items, including a comprehensive safety action plan and a litter pickup agreement with Hamilton County courts. Consent Calendar - Minutes from the June 16, 2026 meeting were approved as published. - The council discussed alternate versions of two resolutions: one corrected the name of the distillery operator (Dam Whiskey Corporation) and the other updated grant language for the Police Department’s victim services specialist. Public Comments & Testimony - Jamarcus Williams (Hamilton County 911 dispatcher, city resident, but not speaking on behalf of 911): Expressed that dispatchers are the true first responders and remain among the lowest paid in the region. He noted that over two-thirds of the nearly 580,000 calls each year come from Chattanooga. He stated that all agencies on the 911 board have agreed to fund a phased pay plan except the City of Chattanooga. He asked: “If public safety is truly a priority, why are the professionals who answer the call before anyone else still waiting for their turn?” - Morgan Jatan (11-year dispatcher): Stated new dispatchers start at $19.27 per hour and that the city has not sent anyone to observe dispatch operations. She asked: “Is it that you have no funds or that you need to reevaluate how you would re-allocate the funds you do have? What is it that you deem more important than supporting the first responders?” - Cheyenne Bedell (14-year dispatcher): Described the extensive training and the critical role dispatchers play. She urged the council to support the pay raise, noting the cost of losing experienced telecommunicators. - Brittany Rice: Emphasized the need for client agency support for dispatcher mental health and well-being, and stated she could not work needed overtime during a personal crisis, leading to financial hardship. - Jacqueline Lewis (East Ridge resident, wife of a dispatcher): Said her husband often works 60 hours a week due to critical staffing shortages. She noted the stress and lack of pay, and stated that if she were in his position, she would “turn in a resignation letter.” Discussion Items - 911 Dispatcher Pay Raise: Several council members (Vice Chairman Elliott, Councilman Clark, Councilwoman Noel, Councilwoman Hill) and the Chief of Police discussed the Hamilton County 911 pay plan. The Chief explained that the multi-year plan was presented in April and would commit the city to a significant increase (reportedly $1.8 million over five years). He stated he recommended a meeting between 911 executive directors and the city and county CFOs, but that meeting had not occurred. Councilman Clark noted that the city’s comparable analysis (with cities like Clarksville, Huntsville, Tallahassee, Knoxville) showed dispatcher trainees are 5.4% below the average of comps, while post-probation dispatchers are 1% above. Councilwoman Hill questioned the funding formula (the city pays 50% of personnel costs, the county 13%) and noted that all city residents also pay county taxes. - Distillery Approval (Item 9F): The council discussed the name of a new distillery at 1437 Market Street. Onclarification from the applicant, the business is called “Dam Whiskey Corporation” (named after a hydro dam, not profanity). Councilwoman Hill asked for details, and the applicant confirmed they have operated since 2020. - Employee Assistance Program (EAP) (Purchase Item 4): Councilman Clark asked about the difference between EAP (Compsych) and behavioral health counselors at the on-site clinic. Mandy clarified that EAP is for crisis support (legal, financial, mental health) while the clinic provides long-term care. - Future Considerations (Items on July 7 agenda): - Adopt a comprehensive safety action plan (presentation set for July 7). - Litter pickup agreement with Hamilton County courts: Councilwoman Hill asked how this fits with the new 19 litter positions. The Deputy Chief of Staff said the program had been on hiatus since COVID and that coordination is still being evaluated. - Interlocal agreement with the Regional Planning Agency: Councilman Davis asked why the city must define the jurisdiction of the Hamilton County Planning Department. The response was that the agreement is needed to maintain Hamilton County’s payments into the MPO and to define financial responsibilities for services that will still be provided (federal fund passing, etc.). Key Outcomes - Fiscal Year 2026-2027 Operations Budget (Item 7A): Passed on final reading with 6 yeses and 1 present. (Roll call: Councilman Henderson – yes, Councilwoman Hill – yes, Councilwoman Burth – yes, Councilwoman All – yes, others not individually named; no votes recorded.) - Capital Improvements Budget (Item 7B): Passed unanimously (7 yeses). - Ordinance Amending Parks Code (Item 8A): Passed on first reading by voice vote (all in favor). - Disc Golf Course Agreement (Item 9A): Approved with Chattanooga Flying Discs Club Inc. for one year, through June 30, 2027. - American Rescue Plan Funds for Early Learning (Item 9B): Resolution adopted for $250,000 to James A. Henry operational costs. - Beer Board Appointment (Item 9C): John Law confirmed to represent District 1 (term ending June 23, 2029). - Professional Surveying Services (Item 9D): Blanket contract awarded to nine firms for up to $1 million annually for four years. - Water Quality Monitoring Change Order (Item 9E): Approved for $334,849 additional (new total $919,849). - Distillery Special Exception Permit (Item 9F): Adopted with 6 yeses and 1 no. - OVC Grant Application (Item 9G): Resolution adopted for up to $500,000 for victim services specialist and training (three-year term). - Purchases Approved: All six recommended by the administration: 1. Composting services with New Terra Compost ($50,000/year, four years). 2. Wastewater renewal with Solution Works ($370,000/year, 5.1% increase). 3. Odor control fan freight increase ($83,050 total). 4. EAP services with Compsych ($55,000/year, four years). 5. Stop loss insurance with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Tennessee ($910,756/year). 6. Consulting services for Mayor’s Office from PFM Group ($100,000 one-time). - Sole Source Purchase: Noted for police leadership training. - Next Meeting: No meeting June 30; next meeting is July 7, 2026.