Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Cocke County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
5 issues in zoning
Countywide zoning controversy
Zoning remains a hot topic. Residents asked for a balanced committee to work on amendments, and Bright's push to put zoning on the ballot was tabled while state law is checked.
Commercial rezonings in Cosby and Parrottsville
Two properties were rezoned to C-2 Commercial: 1880 Hartford Road in Cosby and 2331 Happy Hollow Road in Parrottsville, opening them to commercial development.
Zoning amendments threatening Meat Jack and small businesses
County zoning amendments would have redefined slaughterhouses and removed meat processing from agricultural zones — John Hope of the Meat Jack says he'd lose grandfathered status. Commissioners sent the changes back to the planning commission and many said the whole zoning framework needs rework.
Rezoning 1692 Deerwood Road to commercial
After a public hearing with no speakers, the commission approved changing the Deerwood Road parcel from residential to general commercial zoning, following the Planning Commission's recommendation.
One-year moratorium on data center facilities
The county hit pause for one year on data centers, crypto mining and battery storage facilities while it studies their huge energy and water use, noise and few jobs. Officials noted Knox County passed a similar rule and that zoning rules — not outright bans — are the legal tool to manage them.