Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Blount County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
9 issues with critical priority
Comprehensive Plan Implementation and Zoning Modernization
Mayor Anderson told the commission he will veto any resolution reducing minimum lot sizes, citing traffic and infrastructure strain. A resident submitted a petition against denser housing.
Proposed Moratorium on Major Subdivisions and Multifamily Housing
D.R. Horton argued the county's cluster development regulations add $60,000+ per lot and push new homes out of local buyers' reach; commissioners questioned the data, infrastructure costs, and construction quality. No rule changes were made.
Temporary Moratorium on Data Centers and Advanced Computing
Dozens of residents spoke out against potential AI data centers, expressing deep concern over massive water usage, electrical grid strain, noise pollution, light pollution, and negative economic and environmental fallout in Blount County.
Data Center and Advanced Computing Zoning Regulation
The county is writing rules for where and how data centers can operate — setbacks, noise limits, utility attestations, and emergency shutdown authority. The commission forwarded a strengthened version to the County Commission, which makes the final call after a public hearing.
Fiscal Year 2026-2027 Budget and Tax Rate
The county commission passed a resolution instructing the Budget Committee to prepare the upcoming county budget using the certified tax rate, which aims to keep property tax revenue stable.
Alcoa South Plant Acquisition Proposal
The county committed $8 million toward an interlocal agreement with the Industrial Development Board to purchase the Alcoa South Plant property. Supporters argue it is a vital investment to secure local control and prevent undesirable uses like AI data centers, while critics raised concerns about historic industrial contamination and financial exposure.
Pellissippi Parkway Extension Right-of-Way Funding
Residents expressed frustration over a lack of transparency regarding the acceleration of right-of-way acquisition for the Pellissippi Parkway Extension project from 2032 to 2026.
Substance Use Residential Treatment Facility Funding
The county approved applying for state grant funding to support local substance abuse and mental health services.
Continuous Two-Year Property Reappraisal Cycle
The county adopted a plan to appraise properties every two years instead of three or four. Supporters argue it avoids massive tax spikes and protects state tax relief programs, while residents and local mayors warn it will increase administrative burdens and stress fixed-income seniors.