Public Meetings - Chattanooga, Tennessee

On June 16, 2026, the Chattanooga City Council convened for its regular meeting, highlighted by the unanimous approval of the Fiscal Year 2026-2027 operating budget and capital improvements budget. The meeting also saw approvals of a lease for a new senior center at Eastgate Town Center, a property donation for homeless services, and several other resolutions. Mayor Tim Kelly delivered remarks emphasizing the budget's focus on public safety, road investment, and no tax increase. The council also heard public comments from seniors, city employees, and others. Consent Calendar - Approval of minutes from the prior meeting. - Unanimous approval of all ordinances on final reading, including amendments to city codes on rates of fair schedule, building code, zoning conditions, and a rezoning for a property at 777 East Brandon Road from CMU-1 to CC, and properties at 1211 drive and 1301 Grove Street from RN3 to WN7. Public Comments & Testimony - Irene Eubanks (Chairman, senior advisory board): Thanked the council for the vote on the Eastgate lease and stated, "We're not done yet." - Dondre Petty (former city water/wastewater employee): Addressed his termination, stating he was terminated without prior warnings and that HR put wrong information on the paperwork. The plant manager and HR allegedly agreed to bring him back, but HR later stated they could not. Vice Chairman Elliott advised him on the process to appeal termination. - Grasilia Moore (Glenwood senior center board member, District 7): Requested that parking spaces taken away near Glenwood be restored for the 90–100 days before the move to Eastgate. - Jonathan Easter (District 9): Thanked council for moving forward on taxi rates and suggested the city list approved taxi and tow companies on its website for public verification. - Unnamed public works employee (wearing purple): Requested a 5% pay increase for public works employees. - Robin Nixon (wastewater department employee, District 6): Requested a 5% cost-of-living increase, stating she currently works a second job to make ends meet. - Janice Gooden (District 8): Spoke about Rosenwald Schools history in Hamilton County and promoted an exhibit at the Bessie Smith Cultural Center. - Darren Ledford (Deputy Chief of Staff): Thanked the council for its collaborative work on the budget and senior center, noting the positive example set for city interns. Discussion Items - Budget Presentation (Fiscal Year 2026-2027): Mayor Tim Kelly presented the sixth budget of his administration, emphasizing no tax increase, a 3% cost-of-living pay increase for all city employees, a $10 million annual investment in road quality, and a focus on public safety and public works (nearly 60% of the budget). He noted the budget balances without a tax increase despite inflation and the sunset of pandemic-era federal relief. - Provident Place (Ordinance on first reading, item A): Councilwoman Burris expressed strong support for the project, describing it as a model for serving the homeless population. Many partners were recognized in the audience. - Eastgate Senior Center Lease (Resolution 9B): Councilman Clark and Vice Chairman Elliott highlighted the community effort behind the lease. Clark noted the 90-day build-out expectation and assured seniors that a standalone facility is still on the radar. - Budget Vote Sentiment: Multiple council members (Hill, Clark, Burris) praised Councilman Henderson and Chief of Staff Kevin Roig for an open, inclusive, and collaborative budget process. - Withdrawal of Fire Grant Item (Resolution I): The administration requested withdrawal of the FEMA fire prevention grant application, citing poor fit. - Alcohol in Parks Ordinance (first reading, future meeting): Councilwoman Hill clarified a change allowing the mayor to designate authority to approve alcohol in parks, shifting from public works administrator. - Expanded Head Start Hours (future resolution): Councilman Clark highlighted a $250,000 allocation from ARPA interest to expand child care hours at the James A. Herring site, noting it came from council budget recommendations. Key Outcomes - Fiscal Year 2026-2027 Operating Budget: Approved unanimously (9-0). The budget includes a 3% cost-of-living pay increase for all employees, $10 million for road paving, and no property tax increase (rate remains $1.93). - Capital Improvements Budget (FY 2026-2027): Approved unanimously (9-0). - Provident Place Property Donation (Resolution 9A): Approved to provide shelter for homeless families with on-site services. - Eastgate Senior Center Lease (Resolution 9B): Approved. The city will lease 17,767 sq. ft. at Eastgate Town Center for five years, with a first-year rent of $230,971 and a build-out budget of $354,253. The move-in target is approximately 90 days. - School-Age Homelessness Initiative (Resolution 9C): Approved. A $450,000 MOU with multiple partners, funded by ARPA. - Family Justice Center Grant (Resolution 9D): Approved. Application for $750,000 grant from OVW. - 5-Year Capital Improvement Plan (Resolution 9F): Approved. - Tri-Community Fire Services Agreement (Resolution 9G): Approved for $579,759.28 over three years. - SCBA Grant Application (Resolution 9H): Approved. Fire department to apply for up to $2 million AFG grant with a 10% city match. - Fire Prevention Grant (Resolution I): The item was withdrawn at the administration's request. - New Liquor Store Permit (Resolution 9J): Approved for Dream Liquor at 7703 Lee Highway, following a background investigation and zoning inspection. - Summit Landfill Air Compressors Contract (Resolution 9K): Approved for $260,210.31. - Glass Recycling Pilot Extension (Resolution 9L): Approved for one year. - Compost Kiosk Extension (Resolution 9N): Approved for 90 additional days. - Bike Station Purchase (Resolution 9O): Approved for 25 e-bikes and two charging stations at $185,528. - Craig Neighbors Appointment: Approved as special police officer for codes enforcement. - DuPont Pump Station Change Order (Resolution 9Q): Approved for $19,770.92 increase. - Crime Gun Intelligence Grant (Resolution 9R): Approved for $300,000. - Three Purchase Recommendations: Approved unanimously, including a four-year PLC services agreement ($1.25 million/year), odor control filter media services ($115,000/year), and a $14,000 increase for manhole components.

The Chattanooga City Council held a strategic planning meeting on June 16, 2026, beginning at 2:00 PM. The meeting included a presentation on a sports tourism facilities study and a proposal to restructure the council's standing committees. The meeting opened with a motion to approve the minutes from the previous meeting, which was seconded and passed. Consent Calendar - The minutes from the previous meeting were approved unanimously. Discussion Items Sports Tourism Facilities Study - Presentation by Chattanooga Tourism Company: Susan Harris (interim CEO) presented a study funded by a Tennessee Department of Tourist Development grant (ARPA funds) to evaluate tournament-ready sports venues. The study was conducted by Kemper Sports and included site visits to 16 venues, surveys of event operators, and stakeholder sessions with city and county officials. - Key recommendations: - Indoor multi-purpose court facility: 10-12 basketball courts (or 20-24 volleyball courts), requiring 8-10 acres. Estimated cost: $53-62 million. Projected 30-32 events annually, generating $18-23 million in direct visitor spending. - Outdoor multi-purpose fields: 9-13 full-size synthetic turf fields. New development cost: $26-46 million; renovation cost lower. Direct spending range: $13-26 million depending on number of fields. - Tennis court renovation: Champions Club adjacent courts (6 courts) could be renovated for $5-8 million to host larger tournaments. - Analysis of ice rinks: Determined to be expensive with lower return on investment. - Discussion: Council members raised questions about location (study is location-agnostic except tennis), public-private partnerships (Councilman Harvey noted Batters Place fields in his district as a potential renovation site), and coordination with the Tennessee Sports and Events Corporation. Councilwoman Hill expressed concerns about balancing tourism use with local recreational access, emphasizing that city-owned fields like North River should not be displaced. Greta Hayes, Director of Parks and Recreation, noted that the city is finalizing its own recreation strategic plan and highlighted gaps in rectangle fields and pickleball courts. Committee Restructuring Proposal - Vice Chairman Elliott presented a proposal to reduce the council's standing committees from nine to six: Budget & Finance; Planning, Zoning & Housing; Economic & Community Development; Public Safety; Public Works, Parks & Infrastructure; and Government Operations. Key elements: - Committees would meet at least once every two months (six times per year). - Legislation cannot die in committee; after 60 days, items must be bypassed to full council. - A virtual option for committee meetings on an emergency basis (still under research regarding legality). - The proposal aims to streamline oversight and align with government functions regardless of administrative changes. - Council reactions: - Councilwoman Hill praised the thoroughness and grouping of related topics but questioned the virtual option and suggested ad hoc committees remain informal. - Councilwoman Buris requested a draft label and expressed caution about setting precedents for virtual participation and the use of the term "oversight," asking for alignment with the city charter. - Councilwoman Dolly objected strongly, arguing the proposal reduces the vice chair's workload while increasing others', excludes at least one council member from a chair position, and diminishes her voice as an elected representative. She characterized it as exclusionary and urged rejection. - Vice Chairman Elliott defended the proposal as efficiency-driven, not personal, and noted that any council member can attend any committee and that committee assignments would not preclud future changes. - No vote was taken; the proposal remains under discussion with a request for amendments and further research on virtual participation. Key Outcomes - No formal votes were taken on either agenda item. - The council will continue discussions on the committee restructuring proposal, with amendments expected, including clarifying the virtual participation rule and addressing concerns about exclusion. - The sports tourism study will be shared with private operators like Batters Place for potential public-private partnerships.

The Health Education Housing Facilities Board of the City of Chattanooga met on June 15, 2026, to consider several TEFRA hearings and bond resolutions for multifamily housing developments, along with routine approvals. The board approved May 18 meeting minutes, conducted two TEFRA hearings followed by bond inducement votes for a two-phase project (P1 and P2) at 7610 Standard Gap, heard the withdrawal of another item, considered a bond resolution for a 131-unit townhome project in East Brainerd, and ratified the chair’s execution of a firm commitment letter for the One West Side Phase 3B project. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes of the May 18, 2026 meeting by unanimous voice vote. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public addressed the board. Discussion Items TEFRA Hearings and Bond Resolutions – Standard Gap P1 & P2 - Joshua Haston (LDG Development) presented two phases of a mixed-income multifamily development at 7610 Standard Gap. P1: 259 units; P2: 223 units. Both phases are planned as rental units financed through the 4% Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) program and tax-exempt bonds, with a required average income of 60% Area Median Income (AMI) and a minimum 30-year affordability period. The housing authority is a partner. Haston stated that the project targets a broad income range (roughly $20,000 to $73,000 household income) and will include on-site management and security. Board members discussed income averaging, rent calculations, compliance challenges, and the importance of mixed-income to avoid concentrated poverty. - Item 7 (Standard Kensington Venture LP bond) was withdrawn by Tommy Atley (Standard Development Partners) due to inability to finalize land terms. TEFRA Hearing and Bond Resolution – Standard Brainerd Venture LP - Tommy Atley presented a proposed 131-unit townhome development at 7453 East Brainerd Road (former East Brainerd school site). Units will be three-bedroom, two-and-a-half-bath townhomes (approx. 1,700–1,900 sq. ft.), all rental, with an average AMI of 60%. The project includes HUD financing, project-based vouchers, and a 30-year affordability commitment. On-site amenities: community room, fitness center, business center, playground. Atley noted the timeline: apply to THDA by June 30, 2026, financial closing targeted by end of year. Board asked about traffic impact, unit mix, handicap accessibility (5% mobility, 2% vision/auditory), and tenant outreach. One West Side Phase 3B – Ratification of Bond Commitment - The board considered ratification of the chair’s execution (dated May 27, 2026) of a firm commitment letter with THDA for a $12 million tax-exempt bond issuance related to One West Side Phase 3B LP (1216 Grove Street). Staff confirmed this is the third of seven phases, and that phase one and two are under construction but not yet occupied. Phase three will involve demolition of existing College Hill Courts units and relocation of current residents. Housing authority representative confirmed that returning residents have a right to return and are being tracked. Key Outcomes - Motion to approve May 18 minutes – unanimous voice vote (all aye). - Motion to approve bond inducement for Standard Gap P1 (up to $50M) – motion, second, unanimous aye. - Motion to approve bond inducement for Standard Gap P2 (up to $50M) – motion, second, unanimous aye. - Item 7 withdrawn per applicant request. - Motion to approve bond inducement for Standard Brainerd Venture LP (up to $31M) – motion, second, unanimous aye. - Motion to ratify chair’s execution of One West Side Phase 3B firm commitment letter ($12M) – motion, second, unanimous aye. - Next meeting: No items currently scheduled for July; board to be updated.

The Form-Based Code (FBC) Committee met on June 11, 2026, to consider a major modification request for 207 Frazier Avenue (case VCH26). The property owner, Ken Rittman, sought to increase the employee intensity limit for an artisanal leather goods business from fewer than five (i.e., up to 5) to up to 10 employees in the ESH-3 (Shopfront Mixed Use) zone. The committee heard staff presentation, applicant testimony, public comment, and committee discussion before voting to approve with conditions. Consent Calendar - The committee unanimously approved the minutes from the previous meeting without discussion. Public Comments & Testimony - Katie Campassi (District 6, North Shore resident): Expressed support for the proposed retail/artisanal use (leather crafting) as fitting the neighborhood vibe, but strongly urged the developer and committee to account for the already congested, single-lane traffic conditions on Frazier Avenue (following a past accident and road redesign). She asked for accountability to ensure pedestrian and cyclist safety during construction. Discussion Items - Staff presentation: The project is in the ESH-3 (Shopfront Mixed Use) zone. The use table typically limits artisanal production to fewer than five employees; the applicant requested up to 10. The developer has not yet submitted building permits. - Applicant (Ken Rittman, owner of 207 and 201 Frazier Ave): Described his goal to upgrade the quality of businesses on Frazier Avenue, leveraging the Walnut Street Bridge foot traffic. He stated that Chattanooga Leatherworks (a current tenant in the BDC incubator, which is closing) would occupy the space, combining manufacturing with a public retail component. Rittman framed the 10-employee ceiling as a three-year buffer to allow the business to prove viability; if growth exceeds that, manufacturing would move elsewhere. - Brad Northcutt (Tinker Ma Architects): Noted that the building improvements (cosmetic, structural, sustainable materials) are within guidelines except for the employee count. He emphasized the building’s small square footage, which naturally limits large-scale operations. - Committee questions: Members discussed the precedent of increasing employee limits for artisanal uses in a shopfront zone. They noted that a restaurant in the same space could have up to 20 employees without a modification, so the request (doubling from 5 to 10) was reasonable. Concern was raised about other artisanal uses (e.g., woodworking) that could be more intense; members emphasized the importance of a ground-floor retail component and public visibility. Key Outcomes - Motion and Vote: The committee approved the major modification (increase in use intensity to allow up to 10 employees) with three conditions: 1. All operations must be visible to the public. 2. The space must maintain a retail component open to the public. 3. The use is specifically limited to leather works (artisanal craft) and not other artisanal categories. - The motion passed unanimously (all in favor, none opposed). - The decision is effective immediately; the developer was reminded that a right-of-way permit is required for any sidewalk work during construction. - Next meeting: scheduled for a future date (not specified).

The meeting of the Chattanooga sports authority board on June 11, 2026 focused on updates for the new stadium. The board received a financial progress report through May 31, 2026, a construction progress report from public works, and ratified an amendment to the brownfield voluntary agreement. No public comments were made. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The board unanimously approved the minutes from the April 9, 2026 meeting. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke. Discussion Items - Financial Progress Report (May 31, 2026) – Presented by Josh Paction (filling in for the finance director). Key points: - Balance sheet stable; construction costs nearing $100 million. - Sources: TIF increment of $1.3 million over two years; interest on bond proceeds $3.8 million; first rent payment of $0.5 million received (another $0.5 million expected later in 2026); first sales tax check of $96 for March; preliminary April sales tax estimated at $130,000–$150,000; capitalized interest (borrowed) fully set aside but not fully drawn. - Uses: bond interest payments and administrative costs. A debt payment of $2.2 million was made on June 1, 2026, not reflected in the presented report. - Discussion: Board members questioned discrepancies between the financial report ($91 million total) and the public works cost tracking ($81 million). Staff explained that the $81 million excludes public infrastructure ($10 million) and intermediate financing ($3.3 million), but agreed to reconcile the numbers. - June 2026 Construction Progress Report – Presented by a Public Works representative (referred to as Bill). Key points: - All construction is complete. Punch list items were finished except three deferred items: drink rail revisions (to be done while the team is on the road), final fencing and gates (temporary fencing used for opening day), and outfield concourse benches (made from salvaged U.S. Pipe material, delayed due to fabricator priorities). - Site preparation: 8.6 of 10 million dollars of developer escrow spent; remaining 1.4 million reserved for final disposal of stockpiled material from field lowering, subject to brownfield agreement with TDEC. - Retaining wall between stadium and New City buildings: originally estimated at $600,000, now reduced to $382,000 due to design finalization. Additional fencing needed to secure events between stadium and buildings (cost $62,000). Staff will request authorization at the next regular meeting or a special called meeting. - Contract tracking: stadium costs slightly above original projection but ahead of schedule. Total stadium costs (professional services and construction) not expected to exceed $86 million, triggering the cost overrun guarantee if exceeded. - Team-supplied items: $19 million required; $15.5 million documented; remaining $3.4 million in process. - Resolution SA 041 (from February) authorized $68,570.84 allocated to EPB; $238,915.49 remains for closeout. - Brownfield Voluntary Agreement Amendment – Board discussed that the chair had signed an amendment to the Brownfield Voluntary Agreement with TDEC, required by June 1, 2026, to reflect completion of work on the stadium property. The amendment was necessary because the original agreement involved phased work by multiple parties. The board moved to ratify the chair's action. Key Outcomes - Brownfield Amendment Ratified: The board unanimously approved a motion to ratify the chair's signing of the first amendment to the Brownfield Voluntary Agreement with the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC). - Future Authorization Anticipated: Staff will return to the board to request approval for $62,000 in fencing costs related to the retaining wall between the stadium and New City buildings. - Reconciliation of Financial Reports: Staff will provide a detailed explanation of the discrepancy between the financial report's $91 million total project cost and the public works report's $81 million stadium cost exclude infrastructure and interim financing.

The Chattanooga Sports Authority Board met on June 10, 2026, to approve previous minutes, discuss ongoing issues with a Verizon cell tower on sports authority property, and hold an election of officers. The meeting was brief, with the cell tower update taking most of the discussion. Consent Calendar - The board unanimously approved the minutes from the May 22, 2026 meeting by motion and second. Discussion Items - Verizon Cell Tower Update: A board member reported that, at the request of River City Company, a letter was sent to Verizon regarding a cell tower that needed to be moved to allow demolition. The board later received a response from attorney Hal North representing the cell tower company (Vogue Towers). The board learned that there was no agreement between the sports authority and any cell tower company; the original agreement was made between the Lookouts (baseball team) and Verizon in 2007. The cell tower is on sports authority property. River City Company has a temporary easement, not ownership. The Board of Zoning Appeals granted a variance on June 5 or 6 to relocate the tower, expected to be completed by mid-July. The delay is costing River City money due to halted demolition and liability concerns. The board expressed support for expediting the process. Verizon requested a copy of the notice of sale of the property, which does not exist. There was also discussion about a possible holdover payment check sent to the Lookouts, which the board never received; the board may be entitled to those payments as property owners. - Election of Officers: The board deferred the election until later in the meeting, as chairman Hicks was delayed. A motion was made and seconded to retain all current officers by acclamation: Mr. Hicks as Chair, Vice Chair (unnamed), Mr. Lockhart as Treasurer/Secretary. The motion passed unanimously, with no opposition. Key Outcomes - Minutes of May 22, 2026 approved. - Board officers retained for another year: Mr. Hicks (Chair), Vice Chair (unnamed), Mr. Lockhart (Treasurer/Secretary). - No further meetings scheduled unless needed; next annual meeting to be scheduled. - Meeting adjourned.

The Chattanooga City Council held its regular meeting on June 9, 2026, beginning with an agenda session at approximately 3:21 p.m. local time, followed by a Parks, Public Works, and Wastewater Committee meeting, and concluding with the business session. Key topics included updates to taxi fare regulations, a comprehensive litter abatement program, budget allocations for the upcoming fiscal year, and several zoning and land use items. Public comments addressed homelessness initiatives and community safety programs. Consent Calendar - The minutes from the last meeting were approved as published. No other consent items were explicitly listed. Public Comments & Testimony - McKenzie Kelly (District 1, Executive Director of the Chattanooga Regional Homeless Coalition) expressed strong support for the proposed donation of the airport-in property (Provident Place) for family shelter, noting that over 1,600 students in Hamilton County experience homelessness during a single school year and that family shelter capacity remains extremely limited. - Brooks Outerfield (District 2, former deputy chief of staff under Mayor Kelly) also voiced support for the airport-in project, emphasizing that while the final plan differs from the original vision, it stays true to serving vulnerable residents. He stated that the facility will provide more than 120 shelter beds for families, including cribs for babies, and that “Progress matters.” - Mary Morris (District 8, president of the Bushtown Neighborhood Association) praised Community Haven for its daily patrols, crime reduction, and community engagement in Bushtown, Churchfield, Orchard Knob, and Lincoln Park, and urged continued council support. - Shelley Lichild (district not identified) spoke in favor of homelessness initiatives and expressed concern for immigrant populations, applauding the Chattanooga Police Department for not having a 287(g) agreement with ICE. She urged the council to keep Chattanooga a place of care for all human beings. Discussion Items - Taxi Fare Ordinance Update (Item 8A) – Councilwoman Dotley requested clarification on proposed rate changes. The city attorney confirmed the ordinance had not been reviewed since 2015. Changes include: a minimum base fare from $2 to $10; per-mile rate from $0.50 to $2.50; per-waiting minute from $0.20 to $0.50. Dotley expressed support, noting the rates align with what Knoxville pays. The ordinance passed on first reading. - Parks, Public Works, and Wastewater Committee – Litter Abatement Program – Councilman Elliott introduced a comprehensive “Keep Chattanooga Beautiful” litter program, presented by Public Works Administrator Jay. The three-pillar strategy (Eradication, Education, Enforcement) includes 19 new personnel funded through stormwater fees, equipment purchases, and community engagement phases. Council members Burrs, Clark, Dotley, Hill, and Harvey discussed enforcement challenges, the role of administrative hearing officers (AHO) who can assess civil penalties up to $500 per day per incident, and the need for clear standard operating procedures. Councilman Harvey noted that the city already has the ability to refer litter cases to AHO. Councilwoman Hill added that AHO capacity is well below its limit. The committee received the report; implementation will proceed pending budget approval. - Budget and ARPA Fund Discussions (Future Agenda Items) – Councilwoman Hill requested that all changed itemized budget pages be provided in print and online before the vote on the FY27 budget next week. Councilman Clark raised concerns about unspent ARPA funds allocated five years ago, specifically $1.5 million for a program not yet in contract. Kevin (administration) explained that funds can be reallocated with council approval, and that the administration is working to close out ARPA. Clark and Burrs requested a deeper conversation about redirecting unused funds to support agencies like Arts Build, which faced a $35,000 reduction. This discussion was added to the next strategic planning agenda. - Rezoning and Land Use Items (Items 8B–8I) – Multiple rezoning ordinances were considered on first reading: - Item 8B (building code amendment) – Passed. - Item 8D (140 Browns Ferry Road, RN‑17.5 to CN) – Passed on first reading (supported by Councilman Henderson per Councilwoman Hill). - Item 8E (7514 & 7518 Stanley For Gap Road – lift conditions for fence extension) – Passed on first reading after Councilman Harvey confirmed neighbor support via petition. - Item 8F (2836 Anderson Terrace, RN‑16 to TRN‑3) – Motion to deny passed on first reading; applicant was absent. - Item 8G (7777 East Brainerd Road, CMU‑1 to CC, subject to conditions) – Passed on first reading; Councilman Harvey noted the Walford family’s investment in the city. - Item 8H (1211 Boynton Drive & 1301 Grove Street, RN‑3 to WN‑7) – Passed on first reading; Councilwoman Dotley praised alignment with the West Side plan. - Item 8I (1601 & 1603 East 49th Street, CC/RN‑15 to IH) – Motion to deny passed on first reading; Councilwoman Dotley stated the rezoning is not in conformity with the Rossville Boulevard redevelopment. - Special Exceptions Permit (Item 9A) – New liquor store at 7703 Lee Highway deferred for one week until June 16, pending additional information. - Special Police Officer Appointment (Item 9B) – Resolution authorizing Emily Wood as a special police officer for code enforcement duties passed. Key Outcomes - Taxi ordinance (Item 8A) passed on first reading (unanimous). - Rezoning items: 8B, 8D, 8E, 8G, 8H passed on first reading; 8F and 8I motions to deny passed on first reading. - Item 9A (liquor store permit) deferred to June 16, 2026. - Resolution 9B (special police officer appointment) passed. - Purchases approved: Laboratory equipment for wastewater ($127,898.79) and a knuckle boom truck for public works ($236,814). A sole‑source HubSpot software subscription for public works was reported. - Committee reports: Councilman Harvey reported on the litter program presentation; Councilman Clark reported on a historic preservation town hall held June 3, 2026, with plans to discuss historic zoning processes in a future strategic planning session. - Next steps: The council will hold a strategic planning meeting in two weeks to discuss historic preservation, and a budget education session next week to review ARPA reallocations and agency funding.

The Passenger Vehicle for Hire Board met on Thursday, June 4, 2026, at 7:28 PM. The meeting was called to order with a reminder of the Sunshine Law. The board approved minutes from the May 2026 meeting, approved several permits and renewals, and discussed the status of proposed taxi fare increases. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approval: A motion to approve the minutes from the May 2026 meeting was moved, seconded, and carried unanimously. - New Driver Permits and Temps: Zero new permits or temporary permits were issued. - Driver Permit Renewals: Two renewals were approved for Chenagar Carriage Company (horse and carriage) for Isabella Moody and Abigail Rhodes. - Public Convenience Renewals: Three renewals were approved: Ave Taxi, Mercury Cab, and Nuga Taxi. - Top Company Renewals: Four companies received renewals: Tennessee Record (two lots: 3834 Hicks and Pike and 6714 Middle Valley Road), Johnny's Record (6809 Connor Lane), Mr. T's Tire and Towing (5709 Lee Highway and a second lot at 7206 Lee Highway), and Kane's Record Services (608 Cherokee Boulevard). All permits and renewals were approved by a unanimous voice vote. Discussion Items - Taxi Fare Increase: Chairman noted that the taxi rate increase proposal is still moving through city council. Chris Anderson, Senior Advisor to Mayor Kelly, confirmed that the new taxi rate maximums will be presented to city council for a vote on Tuesday, June 9, 2026. Since it is an ordinance, it requires two readings; the final reading is scheduled for June 16, 2026, provided the first reading passes. The board discussed a 14-day or 10-day effective period after passage. Key Outcomes - The board approved the minutes from the May 2026 meeting and all listed permits and renewals without opposition. - The board received an update on the taxi fare increase ordinance, which is on track for city council votes on June 9 and June 16, 2026. - The meeting was adjourned by motion and second.

The Chattanooga Beer Board met on June 4, 2026, to consider beer permit applications, address outstanding violations, and act on hearing officer recommendations. Several permits were approved, a deferral motion was defeated, and a board member announced his departure. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The minutes from the May 21, 2026 meeting were approved unanimously. - Previously Approved Permits: The board acknowledged that Beer 1401 (MAPCO 863), Beer 1415 (Camilla), and temporary permit Smart Music Project Twilight Firefly Market (TE 137) had been approved by regulatory staff. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public addressed the board. Discussion Items - New Temporary Beer Permits: The Big Nine Roots Festival (TE 134) was placed on hold by zoning. The Smart Music Project Garden Gala (TE 135) was canceled. Paula Wilkes, president of the Bessie Smith Cultural Center, described the Bessie Smith Big Nine Music Fest as a free one-day community event featuring local entertainment, food trucks, and vendors. - Beer Applications from Last Meeting: - Flatlands LLC (Champions Chicken): Initially deferred pending the hearing officer's recommendation. After the recommendation was affirmed, the permit was approved. - Cabanas Nightclub and Event Center (Beer 1411): Background check issues were resolved; the board approved the ownership change for Gabrielle Sosa and Jesus Esquivel Serrano. - 423 Taco (Beer 1414): Approved for ownership change at 401 Market Street. - Chi Chi's (Beer 1416) and Mexiville (Beer 1417): Outstanding fines from past violations were discussed. A motion to defer both permits to the June 18 meeting failed (5-2). The board then approved both permits, with the understanding that the fines would be addressed at the next meeting. - New Beer Application: La Katrina Mexican Food LLC (Beer 1418) was approved for a brick-and-mortar location at 5507 Highway 153. The applicant clarified that beer would be sold from the physical space, not from a food truck, in compliance with city code. - Previous Violation and Hearing Officer Recommendation: The board considered the hearing officer's recommendation to dismiss a violation against Champions Chicken due to a license renewal error. The board voted to affirm the dismissal (6–0–1, with one abstention). Key Outcomes - Permits Approved: MAPCO 863, Camilla, Smart Music Project Twilight Firefly Market, Cabanas Nightclub, 423 Taco, Chi Chi's, Mexiville, La Katrina, and Champions Chicken. - Deferral Defeated: The motion to defer Chi Chi's and Mexiville to June 18 was defeated. - Hearing Officer Recommendation Affirmed: The dismissal of the Champions Chicken violation was upheld. - Board Member Announcement: JW, representing District 2, announced he is not seeking reappointment after three years of service. The board expressed gratitude. - Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned after all business was concluded.