Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Knox County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
12 issues in development
Removal of Board of Zoning Appeals Member
Weeks after a confrontation at a public event, commissioners voted to undo Moody's appointment to the Board of Zoning Appeals. Supporters said it avoids a circus-like public hearing; opponents said the commission was punishing someone before courts weighed the facts.
Unpermitted modular home on Luttrell Road family land
A young family has lived in a modular home for a year without a permit after a Clayton Homes paperwork failure. The board denied the variance — the law left it no choice — but refunded the fee and urged the family to contact commissioners and consider legal advice.
Sherrill Boulevard multifamily and townhome development
Core Properties' apartment-and-townhome project near Sherrill Boulevard and Mabry Hood lost its setback variance 2-7. The project can still move forward, but the developer will have to rework the site plan — likely shrinking the footprint or parking — to fit the 35-foot setback.
Clinton Highway Tiny Home Community Zoning Extension
An applicant requested extending commercial zoning boundaries northward on Clinton Highway to establish a small tiny home community providing safe and affordable housing options. The board approved the 100-foot commercial boundary extension.
North Waterfront Redevelopment and TIF
The county approved the North Waterfront Redevelopment Plan to support urban renewal and public-private partnerships along the riverfront near the University of Tennessee.
Regional Agricultural Center Lease
The county approved a 20-year ground lease for 120 acres on Rutledge Pike to establish a regional agricultural education center.
Institutional Home Purchases and Housing Affordability
The commission advanced an ordinance restricting large institutional investors from mass purchasing single-family homes for rentals.
Proposed PILOT for West Governor John Sevier Highway Housing
A developer is asking for a 50 percent property tax break over 20 years for an 80-unit workforce housing complex. Residents are pushing back hard, arguing that taxpayers shouldn't subsidize private developers while their own property taxes go up.
Belltown Pedestrian Beverage Zone
Developers are pushing for a designated outdoor beverage zone in Belltown to let patrons walk between restaurants with alcoholic drinks in special cups. While supporters highlight the family-friendly vibe and economic boost, commissioners raised questions about underage drinking and police oversight.
Federal housing and community development funds
Knox County accepted about $1.6 million in CDBG and HOME federal money for housing and community services next program year.
Everett Pointe Multifamily Housing Funding
The commission approved federal housing funds to help build four new affordable rental units, sparking debate among commissioners over housing investments.
Stadium Development
Knoxville and Knox County are moving forward with a sports authority to fund and build a new baseball stadium. This is the first major move where your public tax dollars get tied up in professional sports.