Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Cocke County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
6 issues in public safety with medium priority
Speeding and cut-through traffic in Cosby
Residents petitioned for more traffic enforcement on Stone Group Drive and Indian Camp Creek, where drivers cut through and blow four-way stops. A public safety meeting was called.
Lithium-ion battery fire safety
A recent fire near the landfill at a scrap metal facility may have been caused by a lithium-ion battery, prompting public safety coordination with fire departments, EMS and the EMA director. The hospital, a major battery user, is working on a shelter-in-place plan.
Lithium battery disposal
The Public Safety Committee will hold a special meeting June 2 at 5:30 p.m. on lithium battery disposal, with fire departments, ambulance service, and rescue squad invited.
Second new fire engine sought through CDBG grant
The county's retired 1979 fire engine goes to the Parrottsville Volunteer Fire Department for parts instead of the scrap yard — keeping the equipment working for county fire coverage.
CDBG food insecurity grant closeout
The 2023-era food insecurity grant closes in June. Rather than returning leftover contingency funds to the federal government, the commission directed them to the Boys and Girls Club's refrigerated food truck.
Safe haven baby box proposal
Local pediatric representatives want to install a safe haven baby box at the Fairgrounds fire department, giving new parents in crisis a safe, legal way to surrender a newborn. Knox and Gatlinburg have recently installed boxes with babies surrendered.