Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Cocke County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
10 issues in taxes budget
Landfill-adjacent property timber
Commissioner Templin wants to put county-owned land next to the landfill out for grass bids to be logged.
FY2026-27 budget and flat tax rate
The county budget keeps the tax rate at $1.4993 and gives employees a 3% raise starting January. Two commissioners voted no.
Federal appropriations and FEMA flood recovery
The county is still fighting to get federal reimbursement for disaster-related costs. FEMA has officially received the county's appeal, with a decision expected in roughly 80 days, and state and federal senators are pushing at the highest levels.
County Elderly Tax Match Program
The county is adding a $50 match to the state's property tax relief for low-income elderly residents, helping roughly 925 households. The sponsor hopes to grow it to $100 in future years, but the state amount won't be known until September, so a flat rate was chosen for easier budgeting.
County attorney contract length
Residents pushed back on a proposed four-year contract for the county attorney, arguing it would tie the hands of the incoming administration. The commission amended it to two years, 11-3, and the attorney said he was fine with that.
County grants program
Active grants total $19 million with only $116,000 in matches, and over $42.5 million in grants have been closed out, are active, or are pending. Staff praised grants administrator Joni for her workload.
County audit findings and Comptroller investigation question
The fiscal 2024-25 audit found one issue — a late debt payment caused by a hacking attempt on the county's checking account. The mayor pushed back on skeptics of the state audit and confirmed no county offices are under investigation, though some county-affiliated organizations are.
County printers contract
The county extended its copier/printer lease-and-service contract through Sourcewell — roughly $120,000 in equipment covering the courthouse, jail, health department, fire department, and landfill.
Facility leases
Two-year leases keep the Election Commission and the Clerk and Master's office in their current locations.
County budget transfers and school amendments
The commission moved about $215,000 between county budget lines — mostly to highway construction and landfill equipment — and shifted roughly $205,000 in school funds to buy transportation equipment. These are routine housekeeping moves but affect where county dollars go.