Public Meetings - Knoxville, Tennessee

The Knoxville Beer Board met on March 23, 2026, to consider beer permit applications, compliance with annual CAST (Responsible Alcohol Sales Training) requirements, and an administrative hearing for a non-compliance complaint. The board approved multiple special event permits and new permits, postponed several items, and took enforcement actions regarding CAST compliance, including referring some businesses to a hearing officer and granting others one-month extensions. Consent Calendar - The minutes of the previous meeting were approved without corrections. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public signed up to speak. Discussion Items Officer Reports and Compliance Checks - Officer Presley reported on four TABC alcohol compliance checks conducted between February 26 and March 12, 2026. Businesses cited for selling alcohol to a minor included: Palancho's Mexican, Hilton Garden Inn, Chesapeake's, Kroger on Broadway, Marriott Knoxville Downtown, Balter Beer Works, Cumberland House Knoxville (Feb 26); Tokyo Sushi and Steakhouse, Aubrey's in Powell (Mar 3); True by Hilton Knoxville North, Holiday Inn at Merchant Center Boulevard, Zelante Taquiera (Mar 11); La Pinata Mexican Restaurant (Mar 12). - Mr. Johnson reported an ongoing non-compliance case for Union Jacks (failure to file remedial plan and pay fine on time) scheduled for a preliminary hearing in April. - The beer fund balance is $268,000; fines received total approximately $17,000 against a budget of $10,000 (169% of budget). Permit Applications - Approved (complete files): Dogwood Arts (three special events: Chalk Walk Apr 11, Festival Apr 24-26, Knox Walls May 30), Evape Lounge (two permits), Hayes Historical Museum Foundation (two permits: Dusk in the Dogwoods, 4th of July on Maybury's Hill), Knoxville Track and Field Club (marathon), Rosaritas Mexican Cantina, Volunteer Landing Marina, YeeHaw Brewing (four permits, pending surrender of existing permits). - Approved Pending Final Documentation: Casa Don Gallo (needs CO), Beard and Hearle Field House (needs CO, health dept, surrender), Southern Grid LLC (needs CO, health dept), Iron Forge Brewing Company (needs CO, health dept), Sunrise Market (needs CO and CAST class). - Postponed: Crafty Bastard Brewery (8C, 8D), Petros (8G), Plugged In (8H) – all postponed to April 28, 2026, at the applicants' request. - Addendum – Pizza Project (Matt Ford): Discussed delays in obtaining permits; board approved a 120-day extension to July 2026. Administrative Hearing – Flip Side Pub (Union Jacks) on North Shore Drive - Permittee Aaron Nelson explained that he missed the deadline to submit a remedial plan and pay the fine due for two underage sales within two years, citing a misunderstanding and failure to receive mail. - The law department had already filed a non-compliance complaint (scheduled for preliminary hearing in April). The board could refer the underage sale issue to a hearing officer or take no further action. - After discussion, board members expressed support for the establishment and noted that the fine had been paid and a revised plan submitted (though late). No motion was made to refer; the chair ruled the matter dead, meaning the underage sale issue will not be added to the non-compliance hearing. CAST (Responsible Alcohol Sales Training) Compliance Hearings - Mr. Frost explained that many permittees were out of compliance with annual CAST class requirements. Letters were sent January 28 and March 12, 2026. - The board heard from several businesses and took the following actions: - Quality Restaurant Concepts (Applebee's): Manager Jared Hickson explained staffing turnover. Motion to send to hearing officer passed (vote: ayes had it, no further detail on count; dissent noted). Sent to hearing officer. - Dollar General – Sutherland Avenue: No one present. Motion to send to hearing officer passed. - Dollar General – Amherst Road: No one present. Motion to send to hearing officer passed. - Dollar General – South Rich Road: Manager Megan Inman explained turnover and lack of communication from district management. Motion to postpone for one month (to April meeting) passed, giving time to complete background check, add to permit, and attend CAST class. - Dollar General – Strawberry Plains Pike: Manager Stacey Murray cited similar issues. Motion to postpone for one month passed. - Galaxy Smoke: Permittee Hitash Petadar stated it was his first offense and he plans to attend this Thursday. Motion to postpone for one month passed. - Hampton and Sweets (Northwise Garber): Matthew Doyle had attended CAST but was not on the permit; he needed background check. Motion to postpone for one month passed. - The Melting Pot: Manager Tristan Band, who is in process of buying the business, explained the previous bar manager failed to attend. Motion to postpone for one month passed. - Top Delhi and Market: Business was closed; no action taken (presumably not present). - Councilmember Parker suggested that for first-time attendees, a postponement rather than immediate referral might be appropriate, a view shared by some other members. Key Outcomes - All permit applications listed above were approved, postponed, or approved pending documentation as detailed. - The Pizza project (Matt Ford) received a 120-day extension to July 2026. - The Union Jacks administrative hearing resulted in no additional referral; the non-compliance matter will proceed to a preliminary hearing in April. - Three businesses (Applebee's, Dollar General Sutherland, Dollar General Amherst) were referred to a hearing officer for CAST non-compliance. - Five businesses (Dollar General South Rich, Dollar General Strawberry Plains, Galaxy Smoke, Hampton and Sweets, The Melting Pot) received one-month extensions to come into CAST compliance. - Councilmember Parker requested an update on the Hollaroo project but the meeting concluded without addressing it.

The Knoxville Beer Board met on March 20, 2026, with eight members present. The meeting covered routine approvals, reports on alcohol compliance checks and beer fund finances, new beer permit applications, an administrative hearing for Union Jacks (Flip Side Pub), and hearings on non-compliance with annual CAST class requirements. No public comments were received. Note: The transcript date states March 17, 2026, but the provided meeting date is March 20, 2026; this summary uses the latter as instructed. Consent Calendar - Minutes of the previous meeting were approved as distributed without correction. Reports of Officers - Officer Presley reported four TABC compliance checks: February 26 (sales to minors at Palancho's Mexican, Hilton Garden Inn, Chesapeake's, Kroger on Broadway, Marriott Knoxville Downtown, Balter Beer Works, Cumberland House); March 3 (Tokyo Sushi and Steakhouse, Aubrey's in Powell); March 11 (True by Hilton Knoxville North, Holiday Inn at Merchant Center Boulevard, Zelante Taquiera); March 12 (La Pinata Mexican restaurant). - Mr. Johnson reported the beer fund balance at $268,000, with fines received at $17,000 (169% of the $10,000 budget). Postponements - Items 8C, 8D (Crafty Bastard Brewery), 8G (Petros), and 8H (Plugged In) were postponed to April 28, 2026, without objection. New Permit Applications - Special Event Permits (approved): Dogwood Arts – Chalk Walk (April 11), Festival (April 24-26), and Knoxwell's Mural and Music Festival (May 30). All approved. - Beer Permits (approved): Evape Lounge, Happy Holler Project, Hayes and Historical Museum Foundation (Dusk and the Dogwoods event, July 4th on Mabries Hill), Casa Don Gallo (pending CO), Beard and Heel Field House (pending CO, health dept., surrender of existing permit), Southern Grid LLC (pending CO, health dept.), Iron Forge Brewing Company (pending CO, health dept.), Rosaritas Mexican Cantina, Sunrise Market (pending CAST class and CO), Volunteer Landing Marina, Yeehaw Brewing (four permits pending surrender of existing permits). - Extended Postponement: Pizza (Matt Ford) – postponed 120 days to July 2026. Administrative Hearing – Union Jacks (Flip Side Pub) - The permittee (Aaron Nelson) had two underage sales in less than two years and failed to file a remedial plan or pay the fine by the deadline. He paid the fine and filed a plan the day before the meeting. The law department had already filed a non-compliance complaint for the late filing. The Beer Board took no further action on the underage sales, but the permittee will still face a hearing for the late compliance. CAST Class Compliance Hearings - Quality Restaurant Concepts (Applebee's): Last attended CAST April 13, 2023. Representative Jared Hickson explained management turnover. Motion to send to hearing officer passed (vote not recorded by name, but ayes prevailed). - Dollar General (Sutherland Avenue): No representative present. Last attended July 20, 2023. Motion to send to hearing officer passed. - Dollar General (Amherst Road): No representative present. Last attended July 20, 2023. Motion to send to hearing officer passed. - Dollar General (South Rich Road): Representative Megan Inman cited turnover and lack of district manager support. Motion to postpone for one month to allow compliance passed (amended from original motion to send to hearing). - Dollar General (Strawberry Plains Pike): Representative Stacey Murray appeared, but the discussion was cut off in the transcript. No action is recorded. Key Outcomes - Approved seven special event permits and numerous beer permits, many pending final documentation. - Postponed four permit applications to April 28. - Extended Pizza’s permit deadline by 120 days. - Took no further action on Union Jacks’ underage sale violations, but the non-compliance hearing will proceed. - Sent Applebee’s, Dollar General (Sutherland and Amherst) to hearing officers for CAST class non-compliance. - Postponed Dollar General (South Rich Road) for one month to allow compliance. - The CAST compliance process for several other businesses was not completed in the provided transcript.

The Knoxville City Council met on March 20, 2026, at 6:11 p.m. with all nine members present. The meeting included approval of minutes, a commemorative resolution for Honor Air Knoxville, a contested appeal regarding a social service provider, multiple grant agreements, adoption of the Parks and Recreation Master Plan, and public forum. Consent Calendar - Minutes from the February 26 workshop and March 3 regular meeting were approved. - Item 12Q was removed from the consent agenda for individual consideration; the remaining consent items were approved en bloc. - Numerous routine resolutions were approved without discussion: excess liability insurance (12I, $772,192), Knoxville Urban Wilderness Gateway Park contract amendment (12J, increase of $19,821), Vision Zero Action Plan consulting (12K, $158,596), Tazewell Pike/Beverly Road intersection design (12L, $153,240), monument installation at Fort Dickerson Gateway Park (12N), maintenance contract with KMF3 Services LLC (12O, $72,550), and cemetery maintenance agreement with Carmichael’s Lawn Care (12P, $26,945). Honor Air Knoxville Resolution (Item 12B) - Council adopted a resolution expressing gratitude to Honor Air Knoxville for serving over 4,700 East Tennessee veterans since 2007. The 38th and final flight is scheduled for April 8, 2026. The resolution passed unanimously by acclamation. Councilmembers and attendees expressed appreciation; representatives from Honor Air accepted the recognition. Care Cuts Special Use Appeal (Item 11D) - Appellants David Hamilton (Norwood Homeowners Group), Humberto Rodriguez, Morris Chasseau, and Jason Sorrell appealed the Planning Commission’s approval of a special use permit for Care Cuts, a social service provider, at 5200 Clinton Highway (CH1 district). Appellants argued the site lacks sidewalks and crosswalks, has only six parking spaces, and that a certificate of occupancy was improperly issued. Appellees (Care Cuts) stated the facility serves up to 28 people per day on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Sundays, does not operate overnight, and provides IDs, laundry, clothing, and referrals. Supporters noted the existing homeless population in the area and the need for services. Council debated the six special use criteria; Councilmember Thomas moved to approve the appeal but lacked a second. A motion to deny the appeal carried (vote tally not specified, but carried). Opportunity Youth Program Grants (Item 12F) - Resolution to award up to $213,499 in grants to 13 community-based organizations for youth programming. Speakers in favor included representatives from Two Bikes, The Bottom, and Community Action Committee. One speaker (Matthew Robinson) requested better notification for nonprofits. Council debated past audit findings and transparency in grant processes. The motion to approve passed 8–1 (Councilmember Grant opposed). Connect Ministries Agreement (Item 12G) - Resolution to authorize up to $186,100 for Connect Ministries to provide case management and wraparound services for individuals at high risk for involvement in violence. Speakers in favor included Jen Comiskey and Monica Reid. Councilmember Grant raised concerns about duplication of services with existing life coaches. The motion to approve passed on roll call: 6 in favor, 2 opposed (Grant, Lloyd), 1 abstention (Thomas). Helen Ross McNabb Center Agreement (Item 12H) - Resolution to authorize up to $121,000 for individual and group cognitive behavioral therapy for high-risk individuals. Speakers included Candice Allen (in favor) and Matthew Robinson (concerns about process and duplication). Council debated whether funding should go to community-based providers already in the targeted neighborhoods. The motion to approve passed 6–3 (Councilmembers Grant, Lloyd, and Parker opposed). Parks and Recreation Master Plan (Item 12M) - Resolution to adopt the 2026 Parks and Recreation Master Plan (224 pages) as prepared by Perez Planning and Design. Multiple speakers supported the plan, citing thorough community engagement; some opposed it, citing insufficient time for review and lack of explicit inclusion of Chihuahua Park. Council discussed the process for Chihuahua Park, including the formation of a Community Advisory Group and future management by Parks and Recreation. The motion to approve passed 8–1 (Councilmember Parker opposed). The mayor confirmed that Chihuahua Park will transition to Parks and Recreation management in 2026, subject to budget approval. Safe Neighborhoods Grant (Item 12Q) - Resolution to apply for a $47,608 Project Safe Neighborhoods grant from the Tennessee Office of Criminal Justice Programs (no local match) for DNA testing on firearms. Councilmember Parker questioned the description of equipment and supplies; staff clarified the funds will be used for rapid DNA testing. Approved. Alley Closure Ordinance (Item 13T) - First reading of an ordinance to close an unnamed alley near 1900 Forest Avenue to allow development. Councilmember Adams expressed general concern about alley closures but supported this one due to current use as a parking lot and housing needs. The ordinance passed on first reading; a second reading will follow. Public Forum - Vivian Scheipe urged the council to reinstate a resolution for temporary emergency shelters for the unhoused. - Famika Elliott announced the inaugural Black Maternal Health Week (April 11–17, 2026) and requested support. - Kent Minau criticized the selection of the Chihuahua Park Advisory Group, urging inclusion of community advocates from the Save Chihuahua Park movement. - Eddie DeBusque commended KPD Officers Ken Cannon and Eubanks for their professionalism in handling found property. Key Outcomes - Care Cuts Appeal: Denied; special use permit upheld. - Opportunity Youth Grants: Approved 8–1. - Connect Ministries Contract: Approved 6–2–1. - Helen Ross McNabb Contract: Approved 6–3. - Parks and Recreation Master Plan: Adopted 8–1. - Safe Neighborhoods Grant: Approved. - Alley Closure: Advanced to second reading. - Meeting adjourned without objection.

The Knoxville City Council met on March 17, 2026, at 6:11 PM, with all nine members present. Key agenda items included approvals of previous meeting minutes, adoption of the Parks and Recreation Master Plan, and decisions on several grant resolutions and a special use appeal. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes from the February 26 workshop and March 3 regular meeting. - Approved the consent agenda (items 12A–12P, excluding 12Q which was pulled) unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Item 11D (CareCuts Special Use Appeal): David Hamilton (appellant attorney) argued the application violated zoning codes regarding parking, pedestrian safety, and proper permits. He expressed concern about increased crime and pedestrian hazards on Clinton Highway. Opponents from the Norwood Homeowners Group and local businesses echoed these concerns. - Item 12F (Opportunity Youth Grants): Supporters from Two Bikes, The Bottom, and Community Action Committee spoke in favor of funding for youth workforce programs. Matthew Robinson (Turn-Up Knox) requested better notification processes for nonprofits. - Item 12G (Connect Ministries): Monica Reed and Jen Comiskey spoke in support, highlighting Connect's case management and violence reduction work. No opposition speakers. - Item 12H (Helen Ross McNabb Therapy): Candice Allen supported the therapy contract; Matthew Robinson expressed concerns about duplicating services and excluding community-based organizations. - Item 12M (Parks Master Plan): Jean Fitzhugh, Jack Coker, and Carol Evans spoke in favor, praising the thorough public engagement. Vivian Scheipe and Kent Minow spoke in opposition, citing lack of inclusion of Chihuahua Park advocates and insufficient time for council review. - Public Forum: Vivian Scheipe urged action on temporary emergency shelters for the homeless. Famika Elliott promoted Black Maternal Health Week. Eddie DeBusque praised two KPD officers. Kent Minow criticized the Chihuahua Park Advisory Group selection process. Discussion Items - Item 11D – CareCuts Special Use Appeal: Council debated whether the proposed social service provider at 5200 Clinton Highway met special use criteria. Appellants argued it violated zoning for parking (6 spots vs required 20), lacked sidewalks, and would increase crime in an auto-centric area. Appellees (CareCuts) countered they serve a transient population already present, have a bus stop nearby, and that their lease and parking meet requirements. Councilmember Thomas moved to approve the appeal (overturn Planning Commission), but received no second. A motion to deny the appeal passed 8–1, upholding the special use permit. - Item 12F – Opportunity Youth Grants: Discussion focused on audit findings of the city's grant process. Councilmember Grant raised concerns about lack of transparency and timeliness. Councilmember Adams asked for better notification tools. Vice Mayor Fugit noted the grants were submitted before audit findings and that corrective actions are underway. A workshop on grants is scheduled for April 23. The resolution passed 8–1. - Item 12G – Connect Ministries Case Management: Council debated duplication of services with existing life coaching contracts. Councilmember Grant argued it was a 'band-aid on a gun wound' and urged better process. Motion to approve passed 6–2–1 (Councilmembers Grant and Lloyd opposed; Councilmember Thomas abstained). - Item 12H – Helen Ross McNabb Therapy: Concerns raised about funding a full-time therapist position and whether community-based organizations could provide similar services. Councilmember Parker questioned the sole-source process. Motion passed 6–3 (Councilmembers Grant, Parker, and Lloyd opposed). - Item 12M – Parks and Recreation Master Plan: Lengthy discussion on the plan's lack of inclusion of Chihuahua Park (still under event-space contract) and the selection process for the Chihuahua Park Advisory Group. Mayor Kincannon and staff stated the plan is a framework and that a community-driven process for Chihuahua Park will begin with the advisory group. Councilmember Parker expressed concerns about public trust and rushed process. Councilmember Thomas urged inclusive advisory group. The plan was adopted 8–1 (Councilmember Parker opposed). - Item 12Q – Project Safe Neighborhoods Grant: KPD Chief Noel explained the grant will fund DNA testing on firearms to solve violent crimes. Councilmember Parker asked for transparency in grant descriptions. Approved unanimously. - Item 13T – Alley Closure: Councilmember Adams discussed the importance of alleys for pedestrian connectivity but supported this closure given the existing parking lot use and need for student housing. Councilmember Thomas added that alley closures require scrutiny. Approved. Key Outcomes - CareCuts Special Use Appeal: Appeal denied (upholding the special use permit) by a vote of 8–1. - Opportunity Youth Grants: Approved 8–1. - Connect Ministries Contract: Approved 6–2–1. - Helen Ross McNabb Therapy Contract: Approved 6–3. - Parks and Recreation Master Plan: Approved 8–1. - Other resolutions (12I, 12J, 12K, 12L, 12N, 12O, 12P, 12Q, 13S, 13T): All approved, mostly unanimously, with some items noted on consent. - Next Steps: A grants workshop is scheduled for April 23. The Chihuahua Park Advisory Group will hold its first meeting the week of March 24.

The Knoxville City Council met on March 3, 2026, at 6:01 PM. The meeting began with an invocation and the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by roll call, approval of the February 17 minutes, and a series of postponements, memorials, and resolutions. Key topics included postponement of a controversial appeal, a resolution on warming/cooling center standards, a resolution on zoning for temporary emergency shelters (which failed), and approval of the South Waterfront Down River Master Plan. Consent Calendar - Approved unanimously: minutes from February 17 meeting; all items on the consent agenda (motion to approve carried). Public Comments & Testimony - Item 12G (warming/cooling centers): Three speakers spoke in favor (Maya Robles, Linda Conaway of the Knoxville-Knox County Homeless Coalition, Vivian Scheipe) and one spoke in opposition (Rick Roach, who urged immediate, larger upfront funding rather than further study). - Item 12H (temporary emergency shelter zoning): Speakers in favor included Linda Conaway, Vivian Scheipe, Anthony Jackson (Vestal UMC), and Rick Roach. They emphasized the need for zoning changes to allow shelters and expressed frustration with delays. - Item 12Q (South Waterfront Down River Master Plan): Three speakers spoke in favor: Janice Toker (member of SWAG), Deborah Mallard (president of South Side Waterfront Neighborhood Association), and Eric Johnson (president of Vestal Community Organization). They highlighted community collaboration, planned development, and the potential for a wetland park. - Public Forum: Speakers included Joe Cronick (proposed a homeless workers’ union), Donna Braquet (urged immediate planning for cooling centers, noting 12 days over 94°F in summer 2025), Rick Roach (criticized council’s handling of past resolutions on Palestine), and Vivian Scheipe (not present). Discussion Items - Postponement of Item 11e (appeal): Councilmember Thomas moved to postpone a complex appeal for two weeks to allow parties to negotiate and to review legal materials. The motion passed despite opposition from attorney Mullins, who argued the case was ready. Councilmember Grant asked to hear from Care Cuts supporters before a decision, but the mayor ruled the postponement motion was the only matter before council. - Item 12G – Resolution on Warming/Cooling Centers: Councilmember Parker introduced the resolution, which requests the administration, Joint Office of Housing Stability, and Knox County to analyze the current model and consider lowering the temperature threshold to 32°F (from 25°F) and adding a 90°F heat index trigger. The resolution is aspirational and does not set policy. It passed unanimously (voice vote). - Item 12H – Zoning for Temporary Emergency Shelters: Councilmember Parker introduced this resolution to ask the Planning Commission to recommend amendments to the zoning code (Articles 9.2 and 9.4) for temporary emergency shelters. Councilmember Adams, Councilmember Grant, Councilmember Honeycutt, and Vice Mayor Fugit expressed concerns about the timing, workload of Planning, and the need to first complete the comprehensive plan. Councilmember Parker argued that the zoning discussion should proceed in parallel. The motion to approve failed (voice vote). - Item 12Q – South Waterfront Down River Master Plan: Councilmember Adams spoke in strong support, highlighting years of community input via SWAG. Councilmember Parker expressed caution about UT’s role and economic development pressure on parks, especially Chihuahua Park. The resolution passed (one abstention). Key Outcomes - Item 11e postponed for two weeks (motion carried). - Item 12G (warming/cooling centers) passed unanimously. - Item 12H (temporary shelter zoning) failed (voice vote). - Item 12Q (South Waterfront Down River Master Plan) passed (one abstention). - All other consent and routine items passed unanimously. - Mayor announced $10 million for Chihuahua Park improvements ($2M/year for 5 years) and the formation of a Chihuahua Park Advisory Group, first meeting March 24. - Councilmember Honeycutt announced a future resolution honoring Honor Air; the next council workshop (March 26) will focus on housing and homelessness.

On February 26, 2026, the Knoxville City Council held a workshop to receive a presentation from Knoxville-Knox County Planning staff. The presentation covered the agency's structure, planning processes (rezonings, plan amendments, special uses), and the upcoming comprehensive plan update. Council members asked questions and discussed topics including community engagement, zoning complexity, short-term rentals, homeless shelter regulations, and the relationship between land use and transportation. Discussion Items - Planning Staff Overview: Amy Brooks, Director of Knoxville-Knox County Planning, introduced the team (Jesse Hillman, principal planner; Michelle Porte, planning services manager; Allie Ketron, strategic planning communications manager). The agency has 34 staff members serving the city, county, and region. Core areas include planning services, information services, and transportation (TPO). - Planning Process and Zoning: Jesse Hillman explained the hierarchy of plans: Growth Policy Plan (2024), General Plan (2023, now city-only), Sector Plans, One-Year Plan, and Zoning Ordinance. Land use classifications from sector plans and the one-year plan determine which zones are allowed. Rezonings and plan amendments require city council approval. Special uses (e.g., drive-thrus) are decided by the planning commission but may be appealed to council. Staff uses criteria such as compatibility, adopted plans, and surrounding conditions to make recommendations. - Community Notification: Planning staff posts signs on subject properties, sends postcards to owners within 300 feet, publishes in newspapers, and maintains case web pages with public comment options. Applicants must confirm they have engaged neighbors. - Council Questions and Discussion: - Councilman Lloyd asked about staffing levels (34) and the one-year plan's alignment with sector plans. Staff noted that the one-year plan is updated annually but no major changes are proposed due to the comprehensive plan. - Councilman Lloyd asked how the public can understand the 21 zoning districts and 10 overlays. Staff recommended contacting customer service for property-specific guidance. - Councilman Frost noted that the comprehensive plan provides an opportunity to streamline complexity. - Councilwoman Parker raised concerns about homeless shelters only being permitted in institutional zones (requiring 5 acres), which conflicts with city priorities. Staff responded that the comprehensive plan process could reassess such policies. - Councilman Thomas asked about differences from the 2019-2020 Recode process. Staff explained that the comprehensive plan is a higher-level vision, while Recode updated the zoning code. The comprehensive plan may lead to code amendments, not a wholesale revamp. - Councilman Thomas praised Recode's success in his district (Oakwood, Lincoln Park, Lawnsdale) for creating predictable zoning and infill housing. - Councilwoman Adams asked about the comprehensive plan's timeframe. Staff said it will look 10-20 years out but should be reviewed every 5 years. The current plan is from 2003. - Councilman Honeycutt asked about community engagement plans. The engagement plan is not yet developed; it will be a priority once a consultant is selected. Council members expressed interest in being liaisons and using existing neighborhood meetings to boost participation. - Councilman DeBarte-Laden asked about aligning land use and transportation, using Kingston Pike as an example. Staff confirmed transportation will be integrated into the comprehensive plan. - Councilwoman Parker and Councilman DeBarte-Laden noted that mixed-use zones (e.g., CG2) allow non-owner-occupied short-term rentals by right, leading to concentrations in neighborhoods like Island Home and Fourth and Gill. Cheryl Ball, Chief Policy Officer, explained that state law preempts local enforcement of owner-occupancy rules, making it difficult to enforce even where required. She offered to present case studies. - Councilman Lloyd requested a map of all parcels 5 acres or larger in the city to inform homeless shelter siting. Key Outcomes - No formal votes were taken; the workshop was informational. - The comprehensive plan update will begin public outreach in spring 2026, with a draft plan expected in late 2026 or early 2027. The consultant has not yet been selected. - Council members expressed intention to be actively involved in community engagement for the comprehensive plan. - Councilman Lloyd's request for a map of parcels 5 acres or larger will be fulfilled by planning staff. - A future workshop on short-term rental enforcement and regulatory options may be scheduled.

The Knoxville City Council met on February 24, 2026 at 3:15 PM (with all nine members present) to consider a range of agenda items. The meeting opened with an invocation and the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by approval of the February 3 meeting minutes and the consent calendar. Council added a resolution (9M) to confirm Angela Dennis to the board of Knoxville Community Media. Notable discussions centered on the $140,000 Community Safety and Empowerment Grants (item 12C), which passed 8-1 after a motion to postpone was withdrawn. Several other routine resolutions were approved without dissent. Public forum featured two speakers addressing homelessness and unemployment. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: Minutes from the February 3 meeting were approved unanimously. - Consent Agenda: A motion to approve the consent agenda was made, seconded, and passed without discussion. (Specific items on the consent agenda were not listed in the transcript.) Public Comments & Testimony - Item 12C – Community Safety and Empowerment Grants: Three speakers addressed council in favor of the resolution: - Tanisha Baker (1036 Pleasant O'Lane, Knoxville) praised the intentional and thorough grant review process, emphasized that equity means attending to individual needs, and called the grants a long-term community stabilization strategy. - Cynthia Finch (201 Delta Road, Knoxville) thanked the city and described her organization’s Health Career Expansion Initiative, which uses robots and demonstrations to broaden youth awareness of healthcare careers beyond doctor/nurse. - Sam Brown (2744 Selma Avenue, President of Knoxville NAACP) provided context on low voter turnout in local elections, noted the NAACP’s constructive engagement with the city (including advocacy for the Affordable Housing Trust Fund and the Equity and Restoration Task Force), and urged council to support the grants to strengthen civic literacy and participation. - Public Forum (after agenda items): - Vivian Scheife (Knoxville 37914) urged council to allocate recurring funds for homeless services, noting that warm weather should not distract from the need to help the most vulnerable, and asked council to “walk the talk” at the March 3 meeting. - Joe Cronick (2045 Staff Drive, Mascot) discussed the need to organize day laborers and homeless individuals for work, proposing a union-based approach to provide dignity and employment through community projects like street and park cleaning. He noted his own recovery from addiction and his desire to start small. Discussion Items - Addition of Agenda Item: Councilmember Parker moved to add a resolution (9M) appointing Angela Dennis to the board of directors of Community Television of Knoxville (now Knoxville Community Media) so she could participate in an upcoming board meeting. The motion was accepted without objection; item 9M was added. - Mayor’s Report: - Thanked council for the February 21 budget retreat; presentations and the mid-year budget report are online at the city website. - Announced the KFD recruit graduation on February 27 at 6 PM at Fulton High School and a KFD recruitment fair on February 25 at the Knoxville Expo Center. - Celebrated the Sono Rail-to-Trail ribbon cutting on February 26 at 1 PM behind Kern’s Food Hall, a 3.8-mile connector from Chapman Highway to Ijams Nature Center, developed in partnership with Gulf & Ohio Railways and Legacy Parks. - Highlighted the Youth Mental Health Summit on February 28 (10 AM–3 PM at Emerald Youth Haslam Sansum Complex) led by the Mayor’s Youth Council. - Reminded attendees of decorum rules and the requirement to sign up to speak before 4 PM. - Committee Reports: - Vice Mayor Fugit announced an Audit Committee meeting on February 25 at 3 PM and a City Council workshop on February 26 at 6 PM (after the 1 PM ribbon cutting). - Councilmember Honeycutt reported attending his first Pension Board meeting as a new member, praising staff and committee management. - Council Announcements: - Councilmember Grant offered condolences for former Commissioner Diane Jordan, with community visitation/funeral on February 28 at Overcome Believers Church. - Councilmember Honeycutt reminded the public to provide feedback on the Parks and Recreation Master Plan (deadline March 1 at playknoxvilletn.com), welcomed UT Baker School students, and thanked his wife Amy on their wedding anniversary. - Councilmember Parker provided an update on the warming center policy resolution, noting it was not on tonight’s agenda but will be on March 3, and that it is a starting point for conversation, not a final policy. - Item 12C – Community Safety and Empowerment Grants (Resolution authorizing $140,000 to 11 organizations): - Postponement Motion: Councilmember Grant moved to postpone the item to March 17, citing several questions: lack of clarity on total funds distributed through the African American Equity Restoration Fund since 2020 ($300,000 in grants to date, per Ms. Middlebrook); whether non-grant city investments (e.g., a new fire station, Chih-hua Park improvements) count toward the $100 million commitment; and the need for a public meeting with the Equity Task Force. - Tanisha Baker (chair of the task force) responded that the $100 million was a commitment to seek funding, not a dedicated fund; the federal Reconnecting Communities grant ($46.2 million) was rescinded; and she is open to holding a public meeting before the next grant cycle in November. - Mayor Kincannon clarified that the 2020 resolution directed the city to pursue grants and complement investments, not to spend $100 million from the general fund. - Councilmember Parker raised concerns from a recent audit about grant processes to nonprofits, but noted the Audit Committee meeting the next day would address broader issues; she did not support postponement. - Several council members (Adams, Fugit, DeBartheleman, Thomas) expressed confidence in the current process and the organizations already selected, but welcomed future discussions on transparency. - Councilmember Grant ultimately withdrew his motion to postpone after receiving assurances of a future public meeting. The second (Councilmember Lloyd) also withdrew. - Vote: The resolution passed 8-1 (Councilmember Grant opposed). - Other Resolutions (all passed unanimously): - Item 9B: Reappointment of Ellen Lee and George Anna Yarbrough to the Knox County Board of Equalization. - Item 9M: Confirmation of Angela Dennis to the board of community television (now Knoxville Community Media). - Item 9D: Youth violence prevention week microgrants totaling $23,950 to eight organizations. - Item 9E: Engineering contract with CDM Smith for East Greenway Drive Bridge Replacement ($419,400). - Item 9F: 2026 resurfacing phase one with Rogers Group Inc. ($5,020,000). - Item 9G: Amendment to 2024 sidewalk replacement contract with Whaley Construction (increase of $62,685.60, new total $1,055,180.60; completion extended to February 28, 2026). - Item 9H: Lease agreement with Goodwill Industries for recycling drop-off centers ($50,000 annually). Key Outcomes - Votes: - Item 12C (Community Safety and Empowerment Grants) passed 8-1. - All other agenda items passed unanimously without recorded dissent. - Directives & Next Steps: - Councilmember Grant and the African American Equity Restoration Task Force agreed to hold a public meeting to discuss the grant process and transparency before the next grant cycle (expected November 2026). - The Audit Committee will meet on February 25 to review grant-related audit findings and processes. - The City Council workshop on February 26 will include potential discussion on improving grant procedures. - Councilmember Parker’s resolution on warming centers will be on the March 3 agenda. - The Mayor’s Youth Council will host the Youth Mental Health Summit on February 28. - Public forum comments on homelessness and employment will inform future council actions.

On February 24, 2026, the Knoxville Beer Board convened with all nine members present to address beer permit applications, receive reports on compliance audits and enforcement, and handle administrative matters. Consent Calendar - The minutes of the previous meeting were approved as distributed without correction. Officer Reports - Internal Audit (Savannah Kirk): Presented findings of a CAST (Alcohol Seller Training) compliance audit. Of 747 active beer permits, roughly 50% were sampled, and 34% of those sampled (approximately 126 permits) were non‑compliant. Certified letters were sent, and all listed non‑compliant permittees have since come into compliance. - Beer Inspector (Officer Presley): Reported two enforcement actions: (1) On February 1, a patrol incident at Corn at the Corner Market (1316 Maribel Pike) resulted in a charge for sale of alcohol to a minor. (2) On February 7, a joint compliance check with ABC of 15 businesses found four establishments (Cedar Lane Sitco, Flock Beer and Wine, Backdoor Tavern, and Union Jacks) sold alcohol to a minor; Union Jacks was also cited for CAST non‑compliance. - Clerk (Mr. Johnson): Noted that Union Jacks will appear at the March meeting for an administrative hearing due to a second violation within two years. No active suspension or revocation hearings remain. The beer fund balance stands at $266,000. Fine revenue has reached nearly $15,000 against a $10,000 budget (150% of budget). Postage for CAST compliance letters is now funded from the beer fund. Discussion Items - Postponements and Withdrawals: Three items (8C and 8D, Crafty Bastard Brewery; 8G, Rosaritas Mexican Cantina) were postponed to the March meeting without objection. No withdrawals were requested. - Special Event Permits: All five special event applications were approved unanimously: - Dragonfly Aerial and Circus Art Studio (Heather Quincy) – 15th anniversary fundraising gala on March 7. - Travis Ferguson – event permit approved. - OASI (Davis Parker) – event permit approved. - Trees Knoxville (Melissa Hinton) – Tree Fest on April 24 at Baker Creek Preserve, featuring tree giveaways and outreach. - Young Williams Animal Center (Janet Testerman) – Marty Grow pet parade and festival. Approved pending final documentation for CAST training. - Regular Beer Permits: Applications were considered individually; all approvals were pending final documentation unless otherwise noted: - 808 Music Group (Brian Coakley) – approved pending sales tax registration, certificate of occupancy, health department approval, and TABC license. - Big Orange Bar (Sam Juani) – approved pending certificate of occupancy and health department approval. - Gen Z 17th Street (Kara Patel) – approved pending Department of Agriculture approval. - Los Portalos (Miguel Nunez) – approved pending sales tax registration and health department approval. - Yeehaw Brewing – applicant absent; discussion led to a motion to postpone all three of their permits to the March meeting, which was seconded and passed. - Extension Requests: - Ian's Market (Bogani) – requested a 90‑day extension; upon discussion, the board granted an extension to the May meeting. - Stem to Stem North Central (Brooke Martin) – requested an extension due to a family emergency; granted to the May meeting. - Kevin Hibbs Amber Green – applicant absent and unresponsive after nearly four years of extensions. No motion was made to extend; the application is considered lapsed. Key Outcomes - All five special event permits were approved (one pending CAST documentation). - Four regular beer permit applications were approved pending final documentation. - Three permit applications were postponed to March (Crafty Bastard Brewery, Rosaritas Mexican Cantina, Yeehaw Brewing). - Two permits were extended to the May meeting (Ian’s Market, Stem to Stem). - Application for Kevin Hibbs Amber Green was allowed to lapse without action. - Union Jacks will face an administrative hearing at the March meeting. - The beer board accepted the compliance reports and noted that all previously non‑compliant CAST permittees have become compliant.

The Knoxville City Council met on February 3, 2026, at 6:00 PM. The meeting included the mayor's report on winter weather response, a contentious appeal of a zoning variance for townhomes, approval of mental health and community grants, and extensive public testimony urging changes to the city's warming center policies. Consent Calendar - Minutes from the previous meeting were approved. - The consent agenda, including routine items, was approved unanimously. - Reappointments and appointments to various boards were confirmed: Dennis Murphy, Ben Ream, and Jack Coker to the Better Building Board; Will Dorsey, Mark Grayson, and Ashley Beals Pace to the Public Arts Committee; Councilmember Nathan Honeycutt to the City Pension Board; and committee appointments for Audit, Golf Course Advisory, Zoo Board, and Public Property Naming Committee. Councilmember Parker requested and was granted removal from the Rules Committee, with Vice Mayor Fugit to bring a replacement. Public Comments & Testimony - Warming Center Threshold (25°F vs. 32°F): A series of speakers (Vivian Scheibe, Yvonne Lett, Michael Rinkel, Donna Braquet, Kim Wilson Owen, Anthony Jackson, Jody Johnson, Skylar Weltner, Miranda Perez) urged the council to lower the activation temperature for warming centers from 25°F to 32°F, citing deaths during recent cold snaps and noting that other cities (Asheville, Atlanta, Chattanooga, Nashville) use 32°F. Speakers also called for city funding, more centers, and better coordination, including use of city-owned buildings. Kelly Cartwright, permitted as an additional speaker, shared her personal experience being barred from Knox Area Rescue Ministries and stressed the inadequacy of current services. - General Support for Housing Stability: Several speakers praised the work of the Office of Housing Stability and community volunteers, but criticized the city for relying solely on volunteers and not providing sufficient funding or a comprehensive emergency plan. Discussion Items - Appeal of BZA Variance (Item 11J): The council heard an appeal by Leland Hume and the West Hills Community Association regarding a Board of Zoning Appeals decision to grant a variance reducing the minimum lot width for townhomes from 20 feet to 9.5 feet at 962 North Gallagher View Road. - Appellant (Larry Silverstein): Argued that the variance did not meet the five criteria in ordinance 16.3, that there were no unique hardships (topography, stormwater, access are common in the area), and that the owner could build 15 townhomes without a variance, so there was no deprivation of all reasonable use. Cited the Tennessee Court of Appeals case Reed v. Town of Louisville. - Applicant (Ben Mullins, James Lennon): Contended that the property's unique shape, 22-foot elevation change, floodway, and steep access created practical difficulties, and that the variance was the minimum adjustment needed. They argued that without the variance, the project (32 townhomes) would not be economically viable, and that the RN4 zoning and sector plan call for medium-density housing. - Council Deliberation: Council members debated whether the legal standards for hardship were met, with some emphasizing the need to follow the code strictly (finding no hardship, as 15 townhomes could be built). Others noted the housing shortage, the intent of RN4 zoning, and the BZA's determination. A motion to deny the appeal (i.e., uphold the variance) passed 5–4 (Councilmembers Helsley, Lloyd, DeBarta Laban, Grant, and Vice Mayor Fugit voted to deny the appeal; Honeycutt, Parker, Thomas, and Adams voted to grant the appeal). The variance is upheld. - Empower Knox Youth Mental Health Grants (Item 12K): Three members of the Mayor's Youth Council (Max Malone, Evelyn Quinn, Gabriel Little) spoke in favor of a $60,000 grant to six community organizations. Councilmember Grant expressed concerns about the process (large organizations receiving microgrants, potential conflicts of interest) but ultimately supported the resolution, which passed unanimously. - Salvation Army Funding (Item 12Q): A $205,000 grant for plumbing repairs at the Joy Baker Center and Hope Manor was approved after Councilmember Grant thanked the Salvation Army for their work and requested better communication about such items. - Rescission of Resolution (Item 12R): A resolution was approved to rescind a previous permit approval due to an incorrect distance measurement from a park, discovered by the applicant. Key Outcomes - The appeal of the BZA variance (lot width reduction) was denied in a 5–4 vote, allowing 32 townhomes to proceed at 962 N. Gallagher View Road. - All remaining resolutions (items 9B–9I, 12K–12R) were approved unanimously or with minimal opposition. - Public comments highlighted an urgent need to raise the warming center threshold to 32°F and increase city funding, with several speakers noting recent deaths. No formal action was taken on this topic during the meeting, but Councilmember Parker indicated she would bring resolutions in the coming weeks. - The council heard updates on winter storm response, including a record number of people served at warming centers and no one turned away.