Public Meetings - Knoxville, Tennessee

The Knoxville City Council held its regular meeting on October 13, 2026, at 6:00 PM. The meeting included approval of minutes, consent agenda, public hearings, resolutions, and public forum. Key actions included granting an appeal to overturn a planning commission decision on a South Waterfront development, approving a health center contract, and denying a rezoning on Vance Road. Public comments addressed police funding, cemetery restoration, homeless services, and police accountability. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes of the September 29, 2026 regular meeting. - Approved the consent agenda as amended (removing resolution 12-J): including Proposed Ordinance 10D (amending audit committee rules) and Resolutions 12K, 12L, and 12M (certificates of compliance for liquor licenses – Hall of Fame Wine & Spirits, GARMO, and Casey's 4211). Elections and Confirmations - 9B: Unanimously confirmed the reappointment of John Heins to the Board of Environmental Appeals. - 9C: Unanimously approved the appointment of members and chair of City Council's Audit Committee. Hearing on Zoning Matters – Appeal 11E (315 Kerbela Avenue) - Appellant (Rachel Craig) case: Presented by Janice Toker and Suzanne Taravella. They argued the proposed 55+ housing development violates the South Waterfront form-based code and vision plan. Seven deviations were identified (block size doubled to 3,000 ft, lot size 5.7 acres vs. 3-acre max, insufficient ground-floor transparency, blank parking garage walls, etc.). They contended the “breezeway” does not meet the intent of public connectivity and the project as a whole fails to create a human-scaled, integrated urban form. They requested the council overturn the Planning Commission's 7-6 approval. - Appellee (CR Endeavors) case: Presented by Nick Kitsos (local barbershop owner, supporting the project), Alex Dominguez (Kern's Bakery developer), and Ryan Robertson (developer representative). They highlighted the difficult topography (only 3.2 of 5.7 acres buildable, steep slopes, rock at 0.8 inches). The project has been redesigned over several months with community input (SWAG, neighborhood meetings), including splitting the building into two, adding a public breezeway/art gallery/viewing platform, preserving historic stairs, adding an arts plaza, and improving sidewalks. They argued the alternative compliance process is part of the code and that the project meets the intent of the vision plan. The developer noted over 50 inquiries from prospective residents. - Council Debate: Councilmember Adams, DeBart-Leban, Thomas, and Honeycutt expressed concerns about the scale (double block size, lot size) and precedent. Councilmember Helsley supported the project, citing improvements and the 55+ use. A motion to approve the appeal (i.e., overturn Planning Commission) was made and seconded. - Vote: Motion to approve the appeal carried 5-4 (Adams, DeBart-Leban, Honeycutt, Thomas, and [one additional] in favor; Fugit, Grant, Helsley, Lloyd opposed – actual count from transcript: five in favor, opposed unspecified number). Resolutions - 12F (Premise Health): Approved a three-year agreement with two one-year renewal options for operation of the city's employee health center at an estimated annual cost of $2,800,000. Unanimous. - 12G (Conley Building easement): Approved amendment to allow features to encroach into South Gay Street right-of-way. Unanimous. - 12H (Tazewell Pike Corridor Study): Approved agreement with Gresham Smith for professional engineering services not to exceed $248,023. Unanimous. - 12I (Ice rink lease): Approved five-year agreement with IRA Rinks East for equipment and services for Holidays on Ice, initial year not to exceed $103,000. Unanimous. - 12J (JAG Grant): Approved application for $158,586 from the U.S. Department of Justice (no match) jointly with Knox County for criminal justice system improvements. Passed 8-1 after public comments. Two speakers opposed, citing lack of alternative response program and transparency. Chief Noel explained funds would be used for mobile radios, mounted unit, training, and supplies. Councilmember Grant raised an anonymous letter about KPD but still voted for the grant. Vice Mayor Fugit requested future summary of grant applications and success rates. Proposed Ordinances on First Reading - 13N (Fire Marshal classification): Approved amendment to add the Fire Marshal position to the city's classification and compensation plan. Unanimous. - 13O (6531 Vance Road rezoning): Motion to deny the change from RN-1 to RN-2 passed on a voice vote. Councilmembers Lloyd, Thomas, and others cited concerns about density, narrow road safety, and precedent from adjacent rezoning. Planning staff had recommended approval, but council found the road infrastructure inadequate for additional lots. - Items 13P, 13Q, and 13R (additional rezonings) were not discussed or voted on during the meeting. Public Forum - Gabrielle LaFleur and Beth da Silvera: Represented the Friends of Longview Cemetery. Described severe overgrowth and neglect at the historic African American cemetery and nearby Westview cemeteries. Requested city support for ongoing maintenance, clearing, and headstone restoration. Noted a veteran's gravestone was buried under brush. They asked for a strategic plan for regular mowing and brush clearing. - Carl Lanson: Local developer. Spoke about challenges developing a blighted site on Chapman Highway (under contract since February). Shared that a potential student housing partner withdrew after a council member indicated distrust. Urged council to support development rather than create obstacles. - Yvonne Yates: Homeless advocate. Reported that the city has only 267 warming shelter beds for winter, far below need. Suggested calculating per-person costs and billing other jurisdictions that transport homeless individuals to Knoxville. Called for a larger warehouse for a warming center. - Rick Roach (Community Defense of East Tennessee): Played audio recordings of the final moments of Lisa Edwards and Patrick Allen, who died during police encounters. Urged council to fund alternative response programs for mental health and medical crises. Stated “two too many” and implored council to do better. Key Outcomes - Appeal granted (11E): Planning Commission decision to approve the Kerbela Avenue development overturned by 5-4 vote. - Rezoning denied (13O) for 6531 Vance Road. - Most remaining resolutions and ordinances approved as described. - Public forum provided extensive input on cemeteries, development, homelessness, and police reform. - Meeting adjourned after public forum.

The Knoxville City Council met on Tuesday, September 29, 2026, at 6:00 PM in the Main Assembly Room, 400 W Main St, Knoxville. The meeting was called to order, followed by an invocation and Pledge of Allegiance. All nine council members were present. The agenda was adopted with several adjustments: item 11H (appeal by Rachel Craig) was postponed to October 13, 2026, and item 12i (Lyons View overlay resolution) was moved ahead of item 11G. The consent calendar was approved with item 12o removed and later considered separately. Mayor's Report & Announcements - Mayor Kincannon thanked city partners for a safe and successful weekend involving a presidential visit, ESPN Game Day, and a top-ranked college football game. She reported no major problems and praised the smooth coordination. - Upcoming public engagement opportunities: "What's Next Knoxville" input sessions (in-person and online at whatsnextknoxville.com), a survey on the former public safety building site (KCDC.org Hill Avenue Input), and National Night Out on October 6, 2026 (5:30–7:30 PM at Urban Wilderness Gateway Park). - Councilmember Adams reported the Rules Committee met but has no immediate proposals. Councilmember Thomas noted the success of Knoxville’s first jazz festival (Silk Festival). Councilmember Honeycutt recognized a Boy Scout and UT Baker School students in attendance. Councilmember Grant provided updates on Hill Avenue input sessions (next on October 12, 2026, 5–7 PM at Cal Johnson Community Center) and the CPAG process. Consent Calendar - September 15, 2026 Minutes: Approved unanimously. - 9b – Affordable Housing Fund Advisory Committee Reappointments: Resolution confirming the reappointment of Joshalyn Hundley and appointment of James "Jay" Moneyhun, Jr. Approved unanimously. - 9c – African American Equity Restoration Taskforce Appointments: Resolution confirming appointments of Kimberly Black, Melissa Nelson, Nathalie De La Torre, Areka Edwards, April Hardin-Jones, and Brian Brooks. Councilmember Grant noted this brings the taskforce to eight members (quorum of eight out of eleven). Approved unanimously. - 12j – Asset Health Agreement: Authorizes a contract for technology and wellness program support at $55,000/year. Approved. - 12k – Employee Network, Inc. Agreement: Authorizes an Employee Assistance Program (Bree Health) for city employees, retirees, and Knoxville Area Transit employees at approximately $110,000/year. Approved. - 12l – Roadway Solutions LLC Guardrail Replacement: $75,000/year for the 2026 Citywide Guardrail Replacement Program. Approved. - 12m – Tennessee Guardrail, Inc. Guardrail Replacement: $75,000/year for the same program. Approved. - 12n – Empowerment Zone Funding Resolution: Authorizes revising financial mechanisms to redevelop blighted properties for affordable housing using Round II Empowerment Zone funds. Approved. - 13s – Audit Committee Reconstitution: Ordinance amending city code to reconstitute the Audit Committee per Tennessee Code Annotated § 9-3-405. Passed on first reading. Public Comments & Testimony - Item 12o – Gun Crime Grant (Department of Justice): Elizabeth Pop (37917) spoke in opposition, arguing that KPD has leadership issues and that the $300,000 grant (no local match) should instead fund alternative crisis response. She cited $86 million already allocated to KPD and called for $1.45 million for a civilian alternative response program. The grant was approved after her comment. - Public Forum: Vivian Scheipe (3615 MLK) urged council members to hold district town hall meetings with disabled residents to address delays in reconvening the Mayor's Council on Disability Issues, which has been postponed to 2027. She advocated for monthly reporting by each council member on disability issues. Discussion Items - 12i – Resolution for Lyons View Conservation/Historic Overlay Study: Councilmember Honeycutt proposed a resolution requesting Knoxville-Knox County Planning to study a possible Conservation (NC) or Historic (H) Overlay for the Lyons View area (residential parcels south of Echo Drive, east and south of Grandview Drive, west of Lyons View Pike, north of Oak Grove Lane, and fronting Agnes Road, plus parcel IDs 121CA031, 121CA030, 107NG001). Three speakers (Elizabeth Fowler Baines, Malaika Adero, Steve Davis) testified in support, describing the historic African American community dating to the 1800s, family ties, and desire to preserve heritage. Council members expressed strong support, noting this initiates a study process, not a final overlay. Approved unanimously. - 11g – Religious Exemption Appeal (Bentley Marlowe): An appeal of the Board of Zoning Appeals’ denial of a religious exemption for an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) at 1406 Wallace Street (RN-2 district). The appellant (R. Bentley Marlowe, executive director of Marlowe Charities) argued that zoning requirements (owner-occupancy, ADU size limit of 40%, duplex conversion) substantially burden his religious exercise of providing affordable housing. Parker Bartholomew of Angelic Ministries supported, citing a prior city exemption granted on Brown Avenue. The city (Plans Review Director Peter Ahrens, Law Department attorney Christina McGran-Stillery, Fire Captain Kevin Boss) opposed, citing fire safety concerns, inconsistencies between Mr. Marlowe’s statements and actions (including high rents, past social media comments), and alternative options such as middle housing approval. After deliberation, council determined the appellant did not meet the burden of proving a substantial burden on religious exercise. Motion to deny the appeal passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - Postponement: Item 11H (appeal by Rachel Craig) postponed to October 13, 2026, by mutual agreement. - Consent Agenda Revised: Item 12o removed for separate vote but later approved after public comment. - Item 12i – Lyons View Overlay: Resolution passed unanimously; Planning Commission will study and recommend whether to add a Conservation or Historic Overlay. - Item 11g – Marlowe Appeal: Denied unanimously; Board of Zoning Appeals decision upheld. No religious exemption granted. - Item 12o – Gun Crime Grant: Approved (motion carried) despite public opposition; $300,000 grant applied for with no local match. - All other consent and discussion items (resolutions 12j–12n, 13s) passed unanimously. - Councilmember Grant committed to further oversight of violence prevention spending and called for transparent reporting. - The meeting adjourned at approximately 8:45 PM.

The Knoxville City Council met on Tuesday, September 15, 2026 at 6:00 PM for its regular meeting. Seven council members were present. The meeting included approval of consent items, a mayor's report, and several resolutions and ordinances. Key debates centered on two zoning appeals for middle housing developments on West Fifth Avenue, which council voted to approve, overturning prior Planning Commission denials. Consent Calendar - Minutes of the August 27, 2026 workshop and September 1, 2026 regular meeting were approved unanimously. - The consent agenda (including proposed ordinances on second reading 10d and resolutions 12k-12l) was approved without discussion. Public Comments & Testimony - Elliot Lloyd (708 Morgan Street) spoke during public forum, advocating for city resources to prioritize safe accessible sidewalks, dependable public transit, and a community response program over parking and stadiums. He noted progress on sidewalks but requested continued improvement. - Rick Roach (speaking for Community Defense of East Tennessee) read a statement calling for the city to fund an alternative response initiative (Knoxville Hart) instead of additional police funding. He cited statistics that 67% of fatal KPD encounters with community calls involved mental health or medical crises. He urged the chief to resign and criticized spending priorities. Discussion Items - Appeals of Middle Housing Denials (Items 11e and 11f): Two applications by R. Bentley Marlow to build triplexes at 1415 and 1409 W Fifth Avenue were denied by the Knoxville-Knox County Planning Commission. Appellant argued the design exactly matched four previously approved projects on Moses Avenue and James Avenue, and that the Planning Commission's denial was arbitrary and capricious. The appellant stated the lots (non-conforming, narrow) could not feasibly be developed as single-family homes without multiple variances. Planning Director Amy Brooks explained staff's position that the proposed structures did not meet missing middle standards for neighborhood scale and harmony, and that the design resembled a "slot house" discouraged by staff. Several council members noted that the triplex definition in the code does not mandate all units face the street, and that the appellant's proposals met dimensional and design standards. Councilmember Grant (District 6) urged support, citing the need for attainable housing. Councilmember Honeycutt clarified the council's quasi-judicial role is to interpret existing code. Councilmember Thomas and others ultimately deferred to the district representative. - Resolution 12j – Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force: A resolution authorizing an agreement with TBI for training conference funding ($130,000 annually). Public speaker Rick Roach asked for details. Chief Noel explained the funding supports annual training for over 70 law enforcement agencies across Tennessee to combat online child exploitation. The resolution passed. - Ordinance 13m – Certified Tax Rate: An emergency ordinance setting a certified tax rate at $1.3956 per $100 of assessed value (down from $2.1556) as required after reappraisal. CFO Boyce Evans provided information. Councilmember Honeycutt praised the budget-neutral reduction for families. Passed. - Other Consent and Routine Items: Items 12g (Broadway Streetscape contract amendment), 12h (Chevin Fleet software upgrade), 12i (Inskip Pool deck replacement), 13n (alley closure, Wright Street), and several others were approved unanimously. Key Outcomes - Appeal granted for 1415 W Fifth Avenue (Item 11e): Motion to approve carried (voice vote; 5 votes required, appeared unanimous). Overturned Planning Commission's denial. - Appeal granted for 1409 W Fifth Avenue (Item 11f): Motion to approve carried (voice vote). Similarly overturned denial, with applicant incorporating prior testimony. - Resolution 12j approved: Funding for Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force training. - Ordinance 13m approved: Certified tax rate set at $1.3956, reducing the previous rate. - Public forum concluded without formal action. - Next steps: The appellant will need to obtain building permits and meet all other zoning requirements.

The Knoxville Beer Board met on Tuesday, September 15, 2026, at 5:00 PM in the Main Assembly Room at 400 W Main St. Chairperson led the meeting with roll call, approval of prior minutes, and routine reports. The board processed one postponement, two extensions from prior meetings, one special event permit, and nine beer permit requests. A presentation was given by the Metro Drug Coalition Youth Prevention Coordinator. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approval: Minutes of the August 18, 2026 regular meeting were approved as distributed by email with no corrections. - Postponement: Item 6.a – Weigel's 131 (2nd District) was postponed to October 27, 2026 without objection. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public were signed up to speak. Beer Permit Requests – New Applications All applicants were asked to state their name and address. Beer Inspector Officer Presley reported no criminal record for each. Mr. Byrd from the Beer Board office noted missing documentation where applicable. Each request was voted on unanimously. - Bertie Rose Cafe and Harold's Bar (6th District) – Applicant: Buttery by MKSQ Concepts, 18 Market Square. Motion to approve pending final documentation (certificate of occupancy and health department approval). Approved. - First Lutheran Church and School (4th District) – Special event permit. File complete. Approved outright. - Big Bull Mart (6th District) – 4750 Middlebrook Pike. Needed sales tax registration, certificate of occupancy, Department of Agriculture approval, and surrender of existing permit. Approved pending final documentation. - Cedar Bluff Market (2nd District) – 328 N Cedar Bluff Rd. Needed certificate of occupancy, Department of Agriculture approval, and surrender of existing permit. Approved pending final documentation. - Flying Biscuit – DT (6th District) – 327 W Summit Hill Dr Ste 112. File complete. Approved outright. - Old Sevier Market (1st District) – 906 Sevier Ave Ste 130. Needed sales tax registration, certificate of occupancy, and health department approval. Approved pending final documentation. - Partee Golf (6th District) – 122 Stadium Way Ste 104/106. Needed certificate of occupancy and health department approval. Approved pending final documentation. - Q Korean Steakhouse (2nd District) – 8851 Town and Country Cir. Needed certificate of occupancy and surrender of existing permit. Approved pending final documentation. - Scruffy Pig (4th District) – 937 N Central St. Needed certificate of occupancy and health department approval. Approved pending final documentation. - Woodsmith LLC (3rd District) – 2240 Woods-Smith Rd. Needed cashier's class attendance (missing), certificate of occupancy, Department of Agriculture approval, and surrender of existing permit. Motion to approve pending final documentation carried. Approved. Extensions from Prior Meetings Two applicants who had been approved pending final documentation at prior meetings returned with items still missing. The board voted to extend their permits to the next meeting (October 2026). - 808 Music Group (1st District) – 808 Sevier Ave. Missing certificate of occupancy, health department approval, and copy of TABC liquor license. Applicant stated documentation would be complete within a week. Extended to the next meeting (October 2026). - No Comply Pizza (4th District) – 4644 Walker Blvd. Missing certificate of occupancy and health department approval. Applicant requested extension to the next meeting (October 2026). Extended. Presentation by Metro Drug Coalition – Youth Prevention Coordinator Sarah Bean, Youth Prevention Coordinator for the Metro Drug Coalition, presented on her education efforts in Knox County schools. Her position is partially funded by the city's beer fund. Key statistics: - Quarter 1 (January–March): 600–700 students reached. - Quarter 2 (April–May): 800–900 students reached. - August 26–September 15: 1,065 middle school students reached. - Projected total for the year: 9,500 students (including elementary). - Currently 13 schools served; expected to reach 18 by year end (10 middle schools, 8 high schools). - She co-advises a youth Metro Drug Coalition with students from West, Bearden, Farragut, South Doyle, and Gibbs high schools. - Programs cover brain development, alcohol, tobacco, marijuana, and responsible decision-making. Board members expressed gratitude and asked questions about outreach methods and school selection. Ms. Bean noted she is the only prevention educator in Knox County, but a new tobacco health educator may assist. Key Outcomes - Minutes approved as distributed. - Weigel's 131 postponed to October 27, 2026. - First Lutheran Church and School special event permit approved outright. - Flying Biscuit permit approved outright. - Eight other new permits approved pending final documentation. - 808 Music Group and No Comply Pizza extended to October 2026 meeting. - Presentation received; no formal action.

The Knoxville City Council held its regular meeting on Tuesday, September 1, 2026, at 6:00 PM in the Main Assembly Room, 400 W Main Street, Knoxville, Tennessee. All nine council members were present. The council approved a revised consent agenda, confirmed two appointments to the African American Equity Restoration Task Force, denied a contested zoning appeal for 2704 Sevier Avenue (5–4), granted a zoning appeal for 103 Circle Lane, approved a compensation study contract and property insurance for Serene Manor, and heard extensive public forum testimony about the death of Patrick Allen in police custody. Consent Calendar - Minutes of the August 18, 2026 regular meeting approved by voice vote. - Consent agenda approved as revised. Four items were pulled for separate consideration: 10E (limit on monkeys per household), 10H (Hoitt Avenue rezoning), 12W (KAT grant extension), and 12AF (pensions). - Approved consent items included: Ordinance 10C (classification and compensation plan adjustments); 10D (renaming the Information Systems Department to Innovation and Technology); 10F (alley closure at 116 Heins Street); 10G (rezoning 1325 Francis Road from AG to RN-1); 10I, 10J, and 10K (Sector Plan, One Year Plan, and rezoning of 425 N. Cedar Bluff Road to C-G-2 General Commercial); Resolution 12U (Tennessee Emergency Management Authority grant of $143,389.57 for the Knoxville-Knox County Emergency Management Agency); 12V (HUD Older Adults Home Modification grant application up to $3,000,000 with no local match); 12X (KAT Section 5339 extension of $38,661 with a $38,661 city match); 12Y (CMAQ extension of $8,409 for electric buses and charging equipment); 12Z (Section 5307 extension of $832,125 with an $832,125 city match); 12AA (UROP grant of $3,871,400 with a $3,271,400 city match); and 12AB–12AE (Certificates of Compliance for Retail Food Store Wine Licenses for R&H Supermarket, RaceTrac 2692, Weigel's 131, and Speedway 42790). Mayor's Report & Announcements - The Mayor marked the passing of Dolly Parton, noting the Henley Bridge was illuminated in her honor and flowers left at her mural are being repurposed for local medical facilities; a parade celebrating her life will step off from the City County Building at 7:00 p.m. Friday, ending in Market Square with a performance by the Appalachian Equality Chorus. - An expanded 25th-anniversary ceremony for the September 11, 2001 attacks will be held Friday, September 11, at about 8:30 a.m. at Delaney Plaza along Stadium Way, preceding the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation's Memorial Stair Climb at Covenant Health Park. - A free block party at the former KPD safety building on Hill Avenue is set for Saturday, September 12, 10:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m., to gather public input on the site's future. - Safety City's 25th anniversary will be celebrated on September 14; a greenway realignment near the G10 construction opened; and a new sign-language teaching sign was dedicated at Island Home Park in partnership with the Tennessee Schools for the Deaf. Public Comments & Testimony - Item 9B – Task Force appointments: Nzinga Amani (1312 Hawthorne Avenue) said she was not opposing the resolution per se, but argued the African American Equity Restoration Task Force has inadequate funding and staff capacity for meaningful impact; she referenced the death of Patrick Allen, criticized the mayor and police chief, and urged support for alternative response teams for mental health crises. - Item 10E – Monkey ordinance: A speaker (apparently the primate owner) asked whether kenneling requirements apply to her situation and requested grandfathering with a reasonable compliance period if changes are required. Michael Robison (296 York Highway, Gainesborough, Tennessee), speaking on behalf of Ms. Fuller, said displaced pet primates are typically not accepted by AZA-accredited zoos, so private organizations must take them in; noted no infectious disease transmission between monkeys and the general public since 1974; and said compliance would require relocating animals at a cost of hundreds of thousands of dollars. - Item 12W – KAT grant: An unnamed speaker spoke in favor of the Knoxville Area Transit grant, citing accessibility for people who cannot afford cars or cannot drive due to disability or age, bus reliability issues, traffic congestion, pollution, and safety; she also cited a poll in which 39% of participants said public transit would have one of the greatest impacts on Knoxville's quality of life. - Item 12AF – Pensions: Nzinga Amani clarified she is not against the pensioners listed, but criticized the pension approval process as inadequate for holding KPD officers accountable and called for a bottom-up reform of city government. - Public Forum: Councilmember Parker moved to suspend the rules to allow all signed-up speakers; the motion carried. Testimony focused on the August 5 death of Patrick Allen following a police encounter at the Bread Box on Sutherland Avenue: - Vivian Schneid detailed the incident and called for crisis intervention training (CIT) and alternative response programs, citing NIH and Treatment Advocacy Center research that people with mental health issues are 16 times more likely to die in a police encounter; Allen was 49 with six children. - Sam Rosalina contrasted the care given to a confused white man with dementia found in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in 2019 with Allen's death; "the difference is helping versus enforcing." - An unnamed speaker asked why the standard of responsibility should change because responders wore police or EMS uniforms instead of a nurse's scrubs. - Julia Johnson (Carnes area, 37931), in her first address to council, described her sister Shiloh Rice, killed June 20, 2024, after repeatedly calling 911 about a stalker during a mental health crisis; she asked why repeated crisis calls did not trigger intervention and why no mental health response was available at any hour. - An unnamed speaker said body cameras are not enough: "We need to be giving resources to programs that help people without the use of force," and called for a community responder program. - Jaloas Allen, Patrick Allen's mother (6312 Shaftsbury Drive), said her son died in the hands of Knoxville police and demanded answers. - A speaker affiliated with HEART read a statement calling Allen's death preventable, asking why the mayor's co-response model and CIT training did not appear in the response, and noting HEART's prior resolution for a community response program ended in a tie that the mayor declined to break. - Evera Christ (South Knoxville) remembered Allen as a "gentle giant" who loved dark blue; she named other victims — William Charles McBride Jr., Shiloh Rice, Lisa Edwards, and Anthony Thompson Jr. — and said it is on the council to prevent further deaths. Discussion Items - Item 9B – African American Equity Restoration Task Force: Councilmember Grant amended the resolution to remove Dr. Craig Pickett, leaving former Vice Mayor Gwen McKenzie and Dave Miller; the amendment carried. Councilmember Parker expressed concern about reappointing existing members rather than new names, saying the task force "hasn't produced what we hope"; Grant noted he is the newly appointed chair and has attended one meeting. - Item 10E – Limit on monkeys per household: Councilmember Parker moved to amend the effective date from 17 days after passage to January 1, 2027, to give affected owners time to prepare; Vice Mayor Fugit seconded, and a motion to pass followed. The transcript is garbled at this point and does not clearly capture the final vote on the ordinance. - Item 10H – Hoitt Avenue rezoning (RN-2 to I-MU): Parker said she pulled the item because the city needs a comprehensive zoning review and noted mixed residential/commercial zones are being used for Airbnbs, which "doesn't help our housing stock." The ordinance passed 8–1, with Parker opposed. - Items 11L/11M/11N – 2704 Sevier Avenue appeal: Jared Hewter of Ally Architecture (105 North Market Street, Chattanooga) presented for Connolly Development Ventures, describing the project as appropriate infill along an evolving corridor and citing the nearby 2600 Sevier Avenue precedent (15 fee-simple townhomes sold within three months). Kelsey Gaines of Connolly Development Ventures stressed the need for attainable starter homes and said density affects pricing: two units would sell for about $700,000, while 12 townhomes could sell in the low $300s. No opponents spoke. Councilmember Adams argued the issue is the base land use, not the project: existing RN-2 zoning permits two duplexes or two single-family homes with ADUs; RN-4 would permit up to 10 multifamily units or 4–5 townhomes; and RN-5 up to 12 multifamily units or 4–5 townhomes — none of which require introducing commercial zoning. Councilmember Thomas cited planning staff criteria protecting residential stability; Honeycutt said he relies heavily on District 1 representative Adams's judgment; Helsley, a lifelong South Knoxville resident, supported the appeal, noting the corridor has been neglected and the property was commercial before 1996. The motion to deny the appeal carried 5–4 on a roll-call vote, with Adams, Fugit, Honeycutt, Parker, and Thomas voting to deny and DeBartelin, Grant, Helsley, and Lloyd voting against denial. Items 11M and 11N (One Year Plan amendment and rezoning for the same property) were declared moot. - Item 11O – 103 Circle Lane appeal (O to C-G-1): Applicant Spencer Stanley (6313 Clinton Highway, Knoxville) said he owns the property outright, has financing secured, and hand-wrote letters to all 13 property owners within 300 feet without receiving opposition; the plan is seven townhomes with internal parking. Joanna Pruitt of OISK3 Architects said C-G-1 is needed for setbacks and internal parking on the corner lot facing Kingston Pike. Parker supported the project but worried about what land uses could follow under general commercial if the project does not materialize; Honeycutt supported the change as an extension of adjacent C-G-1 in an area with existing infrastructure and transit; Lloyd supported the applicant as a property owner and taxpayer. The motion to approve the appeal carried by voice vote. Resolutions - 12P – Serene Manor insurance: Approved. Resolution authorizes accepting a Westchester Surplus Lines Insurance Company policy for the vacant Serene Manor property at approximately $32,674 per year, renewable for up to two additional one-year periods. Councilmembers Thomas and Adams noted the building's historic value; the Mayor said a procurement process is underway and the policy protects the property in the interim. - 12Q – Compensation study: Approved with one abstention. Authorizes a contract with Midwest Series of Lockton Companies, LLC for a compensation study. The agenda lists the contract amount as not to exceed $239,000; the transcript states $293,000 — a discrepancy not resolved in the meeting. The study is expected to be completed by mid-January, will cover approximately 125–150 general government positions, and will include benefits value and market reference points from government and the general market. Councilmember Parker questioned the inclusion of city council salaries, sought inclusion of part-time Parks and Recreation and community center staff, and noted the city's disparity study is out of date. - 12R – Lincoln Memorial University donation (St. Mary's Campus): Approved. LMU will construct access improvements, a circular drop-off, benches, and trees on city property at its own cost and maintain the green space; LMU's dental school provides affordable dental care. Councilmember Thomas noted neighbor concerns about added lighting are being discussed. - 12S – Legacy Parks Foundation MOU: Approved. Authorizes an MOU for services preserving natural areas, expanding park lands, creating trails and greenways, and improving river and stream access, not to exceed $125,000 annually. Councilmember Adams disclosed she serves on the Legacy Parks board without compensation. - 12T – Loves Creek historic preservation funds: Councilmember Parker opposed awarding $100,000 to the Preserves at Loves Creek, LLC to move an historic home on the property to allow additional development, arguing the owner should pay and other priorities exist; the transcript does not clearly capture the final vote on this item. - 12W – KAT Section 5339 grant extension: Approved. Authorizes acceptance of a TDOT grant extension of $30,740 for Knoxville Area Transit until December 31, 2026, after public comment in favor. - 12AF – Pensions: Approved. Grants monthly pensions to certain city employees as set forth in the attached exhibit, after public comment on the pension approval process. Key Outcomes - Revised consent agenda approved by voice vote. - African American Equity Restoration Task Force appointments confirmed for Gwen McKenzie and Dave Miller after an amendment removing Craig Pickett. - Sevier Avenue appeal (11L) denied 5–4; related items 11M and 11N declared moot. - Circle Lane appeal (11O) granted by voice vote, rezoning 103 Circle Lane from O (Office) to C-G-1 (General Commercial). - Hoitt Avenue rezoning (10H) passed 8–1. - Compensation study contract (12Q) approved with one abstention; the agenda and transcript conflict on the amount ($239,000 vs. $293,000). - Resolutions 12P, 12R, 12S, 12W, and 12AF approved. - The final votes on items 10E and 12T are not clearly captured in the transcript.

The Knoxville City Council held a workshop on August 27, 2026, at 6:00 PM to discuss redevelopment opportunities, public-private partnerships, and city-owned properties. The session was led by staff from the Office of Redevelopment and Special Projects, who presented an overview of connectivity maps, specific project updates, and the strategic use of financial tools such as TIFs and PILOTs. Council members engaged in detailed discussion about public engagement tiers, developer selection processes, and the balance between city-led and institutionally driven projects. Discussion Items - Connectivity and Opportunity Map: Staff introduced a new map highlighting existing and planned greenway connections (solid and dotted orange lines) and private development opportunities (light orange parcels). The map is intended to be a living tool updated on the city's website and GIS system. - 200 Block (Gay Street): A successful mixed-use development (approx. 50 condos) supported by a $3.7 million TIF. Staff noted developer risk from reappraisal cycles affecting TIF repayment. - Sanitary Laundry (Broadway): Acquired by the city in 2014 via tax sale, stabilized with environmental remediation, and later developed through direct negotiation with MHM (a local design firm) using a PILOT, historic preservation funds, and a brownfield grant. Councilmember Honeycutt praised the city's long-term stewardship. - Standard Knitting Mill: Privately owned, challenging site near First Creek. Multiple attempts at redevelopment have stalled due to market conditions, lack of a state mill tax credit in Tennessee, and an unmarked KUB water line. Staff noted they are ready to work with future investors. - Magnolia Avenue Warehouse Redevelopment Area: Established early 2010s with an extension in 2025. Enables TIF, EDA grants, and brownfield grants. Staff emphasized that infrastructure investments can be made on a larger scale within these districts. - Chilhowee Park: Part of the Magnolia Corridor Plan; staff clarified that no private development is planned on the park itself. A hydrology study and community input process are ongoing to guide park improvements and stormwater management. Over four community meetings have been held. - North Waterfront Redevelopment Plan (UT Entertainment District): UT is developing the "865 Entertainment District" (approx. 150,000 sq ft of indoor/outdoor space) atop the G10 parking deck. Staff discussed how TIF capture from UT's public-private partnerships can generate property tax revenue that would otherwise flow to tax-exempt state land. Council expressed concern about public input for the district, with staff noting that UT leads on programming while the city focuses on infrastructure (pedestrian experience, utilities, greenway connections). - Maplehurst: UT owns about 80% of the area (purchased for $45 million). City is conducting an infrastructure study and historic inventory to inform a master planning process. Staff reiterated that public input will focus on the public realm (e.g., street improvements, connectivity), not programming on UT-controlled land. - St. Mary's Site: A challenging site transformed through city ownership and investment (public safety facility, LMU's presence, preservation of the old hospital). Staff highlighted the partnership with the Oakwood-Lincoln Park neighborhood. - Hill Avenue (Former Public Safety Site): A blank slate. The first community engagement event is scheduled for Saturday, September 12, 2026, from 10 AM to 1 PM at the site (family-friendly, hands-on activities). No preconceived plan; input will guide a future master plan and RFQ/RFP process. - Jackson Avenue (McClung Warehouse): The city conducted an RFQP process with about 200 participants providing input. A developer has been selected, but the name is not yet public while a development agreement is being finalized (expected community preview of the proposal this fall). Staff explained the need to avoid premature announcements. - South Waterfront Downriver Master Plan: An RFQ is open with multiple applicants. Staff noted the possibility of selecting a single developer for direct negotiation rather than shortlisting multiple teams for a full RFP. Councilmember Adams expressed concern about skipping the competitive RFP stage and missing multiple design proposals. Staff defended the efficiency and collaborative potential of direct negotiation, especially given the alignment needed with the pedestrian bridge project ($15 million of the bridge budget relies on new increment from this development). Key Outcomes - No formal votes were taken; the workshop was informational for the council. - Staff reported that since 2020, public-private partnerships have driven over $2 billion in private investment, created or preserved 8,000 housing units (5,000 affordable in some capacity), and are expected to generate $5 million in new property tax revenue over the next five years—all with no direct city capital investment. - Council emphasized the importance of clearly communicating the level of public engagement for each site based on city ownership (tier 1), TIF district involvement (tier 2), or institutionally-led projects (tier 3). Mayor and council encouraged staff to clarify these tiers to the public early in each project. - The Hill Avenue public engagement event on September 12 was promoted as the first step in community-driven planning for that site.

The Knoxville City Council met in regular session on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, at 6:00 PM in the Main Assembly Room, 400 W Main Street. After the invocation, pledge, and roll call (Councilmember Grant was absent), council approved the previous minutes and agenda. Voice votes were used throughout; no numerical tallies were recorded. Consent Calendar - Approved the August 4, 2026 regular meeting minutes and adopted the consent agenda after removing items 12P and 13X for separate consideration. - Approved the remaining consent items, including the FY26/27 operating and capital budget amendment, Planning-related resolutions and ordinances, the Knoxville Area Transit grant application for $4,556,250 with a required city match of up to $455,625, and a $200,000 U.S. Department of Justice COPS grant with no local match. - Items 12P and 13X were later approved individually. Reports and Announcements - Mayor Kincannon thanked KPD Chief David Powell and officers, announced the next recruit graduation Thursday evening, and promoted a community resource event on Saturday, August 29 at the World's Fair Park Exhibition Hall. - Councilmember Thomas announced the opening of the Sioux Clancy Greenway extension, a mile-long missing link connecting Ayork Park with areas north of I-640 and Broadway to neighborhoods south of Sharps Ridge. - Councilmember Honeycutt announced a stormwater public meeting on Thursday, August 20 from 6 to 8 p.m. at Dean Hill Rec Center and a KPSHA Labor Day picnic on Monday, September 7. Public Comments & Testimony - On 10D, Eddie DeBusque supported putting the majority-vote/runoff question to voters but asked for simpler ballot language. Lindsay Jaremko opposed, saying a 50%-plus-one standard would make primaries more expensive and hurt grassroots candidates; she cited her own $5,000 primary campaign that came within 24 votes and Councilmember Honeycutt's campaign of nearly $73,000, about $3 for every dollar his opponent raised. - On 10E, Eddie DeBusque repeated his request that charter amendment language be simplified before voters decide. - On 12N, Roger Ramsey and Mac Hodges, owners at 1004 Game Day Way, said they were not opposed to the North Waterfront plan but wanted explicit protections against acquisition, displacement, or eminent domain in the later Maplehurst master plan. They asked KCDC to continue working with them on mutually agreeable language. - During public forum, Keith Britt urged the Mayor to fire the police chief, called for outside review of KPD personnel records, and asked council to create accountability rules, citing an August 6 incident he described as a police chief openly interfering in an internal investigation. Discussion Items - 9B - Mayor's Maker Council: Approved the resolution supporting the reappointments and new appointments to the Mayor's Maker Council. - 10D - Charter amendment to align council elections with the mayor's majority-vote/runoff standard: Approved. Supporters including Vice Mayor Fugate and Councilmember Honeycutt said it would align council elections with the mayor and municipal judge and increase voter participation. Opponents including Councilmember Parker said grassroots candidates and voters would have less time to raise funds and learn about candidates. The ordinance will be submitted to Knoxville voters. - 10E - Charter amendment on district-only primary voting and advancing candidates with the two highest vote totals: Failed on a voice vote. Councilmember Parker said the language had been vetted since 2022, but Councilmembers Thomas and Honeycutt opposed it over plurality-winner concerns and deviation from state law. Councilmember DeBardelaben said she was still considering a runoff approach. - 12F - Magnolia Avenue Streetscapes Phase 3: Approved an agreement with Adams Contracting, LLC for up to $2,807,530.50. The Mayor said the project extends the streetscape another half mile between North Bertrand and North Kyle Streets. - 12G - Construction engineering inspection for Magnolia Avenue Phase 3: Approved an agreement with Gresham Smith for up to $338,800. Councilmember Parker asked about federal funding and DBE goals; Engineering Director Tom Cleveland said the project is 80% federal and 20% local match. - 12H - Fire hose and ground ladder testing: Approved an agreement with FireCatt, LLC for $29,850 annually. - 12I - Homemakers Program property: Approved a quitclaim deed to East Tennessee Housing Development Corporation for 210 S. Elmwood Street for $7,000. - 12J - Volunteer Ministry Center: Approved funding for case management and social services at Minvilla Manor, the Resource Center, and Bush Family Refuge for up to $54,500 per the agenda; the transcript read $54,000. - 12K - Southeastern Housing Foundation II: Approved $75,000 for case management and property management at Flenniken Landing. Councilmembers praised the permanent supportive housing model. - 12L - Appalachian Mountain Bike Club: Approved an annual MOU of up to $200,000 for natural surface trail maintenance. Councilmember Parker questioned the amount and lack of a detailed budget; AMBC Executive Director Matthew Kellogg said the funds support three full-time staff and an AmeriCorps member and leverage about 3,500 volunteer hours. Other members cited AMBC's record on Sharps Ridge. - 12M - Sports Authority golf course MOU: Approved an MOU among the City, Knox County, and the Knoxville/Knox County Sports Authority to explore modernizing the Knoxville Municipal Golf Course site. Councilmember Parker had raised transparency concerns just before this item but did not resume discussion. - 12N - North Waterfront Redevelopment Plan: Approved the plan prepared by Knoxville's Community Development Corporation. KCDC CEO Ben Bentley committed to a six-month Maplehurst planning process, including initial stakeholder meetings and a broader community meeting in January, and said the plan already names 1004 Game Day Way and disclaims eminent domain use on owner-occupied residential properties. UT Chief of Staff Matthew Scoggins committed to public engagement similar to UT's South Waterfront process. - 12O - WP South Acquisitions PILOT: Approved authorization for the Industrial Development Board to negotiate and accept payments in lieu of taxes for properties at 222 Patton Street, 0 Patton Street, 410 Georgia Street, and 400 Georgia Street. Councilmember Parker asked about stadium TIFF district finances; KCDC's Bentley said existing increment covers the city's infrastructure debt, while this PILOT would delay repayment of a $20 million personal note and increase revenue in years 11 through 20. - 12P - Jonathan's Grille: Approved a resolution approving a major modification to a previously approved final plan in a Planned Development District at 406 Willow Avenue, subject to six conditions. - 13S - Classification and compensation plans: Approved on first reading. - 13T - Department name change: Approved on first reading to rename Information Systems to Innovation and Technology. - 13U - Monkeys per household: Approved on first reading an ordinance limiting the number of monkeys per household without a kennel permit. The Mayor noted an affected resident was present; the ordinance will return for second reading in two weeks. - 13V - Alley closure at 116 Heins Street: Approved on first reading. - 13X - 1900 Hoitt Avenue zoning: Approved on first reading changing base zoning from RN-2 to I-MU. Key Outcomes - Charter amendment 10D passed and will be submitted to city voters for approval. - Charter amendment 10E failed and will not advance. - All consent and listed contract, grant, planning, and ordinance items were approved. Items 13S, 13T, 13U, 13V, and 13X were approved on first reading and will return for second reading. - KCDC agreed to publish the Maplehurst planning process schedule on its website, notify council of future meetings, and continue working with Game Day Way owners on protective language. - The meeting adjourned after public forum.

The Knoxville Beer Board met on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, at 5:00 PM in the Main Assembly Room at 400 W Main Street. Eight members were present. The meeting covered routine approvals, special event permits, new beer permit requests, extensions, and a report on alcohol compliance checks. No public comments were made. Consent Calendar - Minutes: The minutes of the July 21, 2026 regular meeting were approved as distributed without correction. - Postponements: Item 6A (Weigel's 131, 9629 Kingston Pike) and Item 8K (Scruffy Pig, 937 N Central St) were postponed to the September 15, 2026 meeting at the applicants' request. - Withdrawal: Item 9A (Los Portales, 4505 Asheville Hwy) was withdrawn by the applicant. Reports of Officers - Beer Inspector (Officer Presley): Reported that TABC conducted alcohol compliance checks on August 13, 2026, visiting 12 businesses. Two establishments on Asheville Highway—Kroger and Habaneros—sold alcohol to a minor. - Clerk (Mr. Johnson): - Harbs Market (HENA Inc.) on Burnside Street resolved a suspension/revocation case: a 30-day suspension was ordered (or until business changes hands), and the permittee paid $1,550 (including a $750 fine and hearing costs). - Suttery's High Gravity Tavern was referred to a suspension/revocation hearing for failing to meet the CAST class requirement; a pre-hearing conference is scheduled for early September 2026. - Beer Fund balance: $271,000. A first payment of $75,000 (plus up to $35,000 in reimbursable expenses) was made to the Metro Drug Coalition for a youth prevention coordinator position, as approved by City Council for fiscal year 2026. The coordinator will present at the September 2026 Beer Board meeting. Special Event Beer Permit Requests All four special event permits were approved unanimously: - Big Kahuna Wings Foundation – Flavorday Festival (6th District): Event at World's Fair Park on September 6, 2026, all day. File complete. - Hola Hora Latina – Hola Festival 2026 (6th District): Event at World's Fair Park performance lawn on October 10, 2026, 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM. File complete. - Jubilee Community Arts – Traditional Music Concert Series (1st District): Five concerts at Laurel Theater on September 4, October 24, November 6, December 5, and December 19, 2026 (pilot beer sales). File complete. - Knox Music Coalition – Sunset on Central (4th District): Event at Central Filming Station on August 29, 2026. File complete. Beer Permit Requests (New) Permits were considered individually. Most were approved pending final documentation. Key items: - Cafe 4 (4 Market Sq): Ownership change; approved pending surrender of existing permit. - The Kennedy (430 S Gay St): Ownership change; approved pending surrender of existing permit. - Puckers Sports Grill (115 Mimosa Ave): Approved pending certificate of occupancy and surrender of existing permit. - Loco Burro (7600 Kingston Pike, Ste 1040A): Approved pending certificate of occupancy and surrender of existing permit. - Flying Biscuit – DT (327 W Summit Hill Dr, Ste 112): Applicant not present; postponed to the September 2026 meeting. - House of Strays (205 W Jackson Ave, Ste 206): Approved pending certificate of occupancy. - Jackie's Dream (498 E Jackson Ave): File complete; approved unanimously. - Lonsdale Market (3208 Rudy St): Approved pending certificate of occupancy and Department of Agriculture approval. - Merchants Vapor (112 Cedar Ln, Ste 102): Approved pending certificate of occupancy. - Racetrac 2692 (1415 Third Creek Rd): Approved pending sales tax registration, corporate charter, certificate of occupancy, and Department of Agriculture approval. - Shona's (1547 Clinch Ave, Ste 2): Approved pending LLC articles of organization, certificate of occupancy, and health department approval. - Speedway 42790 (4521 Rutledge Pike): Approved pending certificate of occupancy and Department of Agriculture approval. - Taqueria Monarca (6050 Western Ave, Ste 100): Approved pending sales tax registration, LLC articles, certificate of occupancy, and health department approval. Addendum Items – Extensions - Ruff Life Hideout (1935 Callahan Dr): Granted a 60-day extension to the October 27, 2026 meeting due to construction delays. - Calhoun's / Copper Cellar Corporation (multiple locations): Five items (9C–9G) granted 60-day extensions to the October 27, 2026 meeting while finalizing certificates of occupancy. Other Business – CAST Class Compliance - Officer Presley confirmed that all permittees previously sent letters regarding non-compliance with the annual Knoxville Alcohol Seller Training (CAST) requirement have either met the requirement or surrendered their permits. Specifically: - Seed Coffee Co., Tobacco King (dba Tobacco King), and Honeybee Coffee Co. (dba Honeybee Coffee Company) surrendered their permits. - Lucky Shot Billiards Sports Bar & Grill attended the CAST class. Key Outcomes - Approved: All four special event permits. - Approved pending final documentation: Cafe 4, The Kennedy, Puckers Sports Grill, Loco Burro, House of Strays, Lonsdale Market, Merchants Vapor, Racetrac 2692, Shona's, Speedway 42790, Taqueria Monarca. - Postponed: Flying Biscuit – DT (to September 2026), Weigel's 131 and Scruffy Pig (to September 15, 2026). - Withdrawn: Los Portales. - Extensions granted: Ruff Life Hideout and five Calhoun's/Copper Cellar locations (to October 27, 2026). - CAST class compliance: All outstanding cases resolved. - Next meeting: Scheduled for September 15, 2026.

The Knoxville City Council met on Tuesday, August 4, 2026, at 6:00 PM in the Main Assembly Room. The meeting covered routine approvals, multiple resolutions, and two proposed charter amendments on first reading. Key topics included zoning changes, grants, a camera funding resolution for Market Square, and a debate on changing city council election rules. The meeting adjourned after public forum. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes of the July 16 workshop and July 21 regular meeting. - Removed items 12Q, 12R, 12S, 12T, and 12U from consent after requests by Councilmember Parker (Q,S,T,U) and a motion to remove 12R (seconded) due to a member signing up to speak. The consent agenda as amended was approved unanimously. - Consent items included ordinances on second reading (10d – Valley View Drive zoning removal) and various resolutions (12p-12v) covering grants, pensions, and other routine matters. Public Comments & Testimony - Elliot Lloyd (708 Morgan Street) spoke in support of 12Q, the transit grant, emphasizing the benefits of public transit for the city and urging adequate funding for reliable and accessible bus service. - Nicole Skinner (Inskip) spoke in opposition to 12R (Market Square cameras), raising concerns about surveillance, potential ICE collaboration, civil liberties, and the prioritization of funding for cameras over basic needs. She also questioned agency access to data during public forum. - Caleb Adkins (705 Delap Drive) spoke during public forum requesting council address safety issues (lack of sidewalk, blind hill) near a development across from Inskip Pool and Park. - Keith Richardson (2526 Jefferson Avenue) spoke during public forum to commend Councilmember DeBardelaben for securing a Greyhound terminal site in Knoxville and urged regional transportation planning for intercity bus service. Discussion Items - 12Q – Transit Grant (KAT): A resolution to apply for $11,898,636 in federal and state transit funding with a $1,189,864 city match. Councilmember Parker asked for details on total city transit investment (approx. $20–22M annually in general funds). The resolution passed. - 12R – Downtown Cameras (Downtown Knoxville Alliance): A resolution to accept $31,069.84 (corrected from published amount via amendment) for cameras in Market Square. Council debated process, oversight, privacy concerns, and locations. Chief Noel stated cameras would be owned by KPD, no facial recognition or LPR, and located on light poles at 3–4 Market Square spots, two on Market Street, one on Gay Street. Councilmember Grant opposed on process grounds; Councilmember Parker opposed citing free speech zone concerns. The resolution passed after amendment and roll call. - 12S – Law Enforcement Mental Health Grant: $250,000 from DOJ to support wellness coordinator and programs. Passed. - 12T – Mounted Unit Equipment: $10,000 from Downtown Knoxville Alliance for horse care. Councilmember Parker questioned ongoing costs; Chief Noel confirmed the city budgets for the unit. Passed 8-1. - 12U – School Violence Prevention Grant: $666,666 with 25% match ($166,666), city’s share $46,194 over three years for SRO training. Discussion confirmed match is budgeted. Passed. - 13X – Charter Amendment (50%+1 Rule for Council Elections): Proposed by Vice Mayor Fugate to allow council candidates to win outright in the primary if they receive a majority (50%+1). Debated extensively. Supporters (Fugate, Honeycutt, Helsley, Adams, Thomas, DeBardelaben) argued it would simplify elections, reduce voter fatigue, and align with mayor/judge elections. Opponents (Grant, Lloyd, Parker) argued it could depress turnout in low-voter districts (especially District 6), reduce discovery time for candidates, and was brought without adequate community input. Passed 6-3 on first reading, sending to second reading. - 13Y – Charter Amendment (Tiebreaker Language): Proposed by Councilmember Parker. Original version included three elements; after passage of 13X, Parker offered an amendment to keep only tiebreaker language (if a tie for second place occurs, all tied candidates go to general election; if tie for first, only top two go). Debate centered on rarity of ties, potential conflicts with state law, and clarity for voters. Councilmember Thomas supported on first reading for further study; others opposed. Passed 5-4 on first reading. Key Outcomes - Votes on Resolutions: All consent and regular resolutions passed (12Q, 12R, 12S, 12T, 12U, etc.) with amendments where noted. 12R passed; 12T passed 8-1. - Charter Amendments Approved on First Reading: 13X (50%+1 rule) passed 6-3; 13Y (tiebreaker) passed 5-4. Both will return for second reading and, if approved, go to voters in the November 2026 gubernatorial election. - Other Actions: Budget amendment (13W) approved; elections (9C) confirmed; ordinances on second reading (10d, 10e) passed. - No motions to postpone or withdraw items were made aside from consent removals.