Knoxville, TN

City Council Regular

The Knoxville City Council is holding its regular meeting on September 29, 2026, to consider a range of items including zoning changes, appeals, contracts, grants, and appointments. Key actions include approving two zoning reclassifications, deciding on two zoning appeals, and authorizing several contracts and a federal grant. The agenda also includes consent items, appointments to city boards, and a resolution to enhance financial mechanisms for affordable housing.

• Zoning change at 5307 Ballard Drive from RN-1 to RN-2 (File 8-D-26-RZ)
• Zoning change at 318 Nancy Lynn Lane from I-G to I-RD (File 8-K-26-RZ)
• Appeal by R. Bentley Marlow regarding religious exemption at 1406 Wallace Street (BZA-26-0047)
• Appeal by Rachel Craig overturning Planning Commission approval at 315 Kerbela Avenue (File 4-A-26-OB)
• Contract with Asset Health for wellness program support at $55,000/year

Rules Committee Regular

The Knoxville Rules Committee is meeting to consider amendments to its own procedures, including a proposed secondary filing deadline for charter amendments and rules for visual aids during Rule 10 appeals. The committee will also set 2027 meeting dates and review unfinished business on the Rules of Procedure.

• Proposed rule to set a secondary filing deadline for charter amendments (requested by Councilmember Helsley)
• Proposed procedures governing visual aids during Rule 10 appeals (requested by Councilmember DeBardelaben)
• Discussion of 2027 committee meeting dates
• Review of amended Rules of Procedure
• Proposal to amend Rules Committee Procedures regarding requests for committee review

The Knoxville Rules Committee approved a policy for requests for committee review (4-0, Smith absent) and postponed two items to its next meeting: a proposed automatic referral rule for ordinances amending rules of procedure (4-0, Smith absent) and a request to study a secondary filing deadline for charter amendments (5-0). The committee also denied a request from Councilmember DeBardelaben concerning procedures for visual aids during Rule 10 appeals (4-0, Smith absent), with Chairperson Rider stating the denial was without prejudice. The committee approved minutes of its May 14, 2026 meeting (5-0) and settled on meeting Wednesdays at 4:30pm on weeks without a regular council meeting for 2027.

• Approved minutes of the May 14, 2026 Regular Meeting (5-0)
• Approved a committee policy for requests for committee review (4-0, Smith absent)
• Postponed the automatic referral proposal for rules-of-procedure amendments to the next meeting (4-0, Smith absent)
• Postponed the request to study a secondary filing deadline for charter amendments to the next meeting (5-0)
• Denied the request on procedures governing visual aids during Rule 10 appeals, without prejudice (4-0, Smith absent)
• Settled on 2027 meeting schedule: Wednesdays at 4:30pm on weeks without a regular council meeting

City Council Regular

The Knoxville City Council will consider an emergency ordinance to adjust the certified tax rate. The meeting also includes decisions on zoning appeals, transit grants, and various municipal service contracts.

• Emergency ordinance to adjust the tax rate from $2.1556 to $1.3956 per $100 of assessed value
• Zoning change for 103 Circle Lane from Office to General Commercial
• Zoning appeals for Middle Housing at 1415 W Fifth Avenue and 1409 W. Fifth Avenue
• Contract amendment for First Creek Greenway - Broadway Streetscape Project up to $526,900.00
• Construction agreement for Inskip Pool and Park deck replacement up to $261,526.00

The Knoxville City Council approved two appeals by R. Bentley Marlow, overturning the Planning Commission's denial of Middle Housing applications for properties at 1415 and 1409 W Fifth Avenue. The council also approved a zoning change for 103 Circle Lane, a certified tax rate adjustment, and several contracts and grants. All votes were 7-0 or 6-1, with two members absent.

• Approved appeal overturning denial of Middle Housing at 1415 W Fifth Ave (6-1)
• Approved appeal overturning denial of Middle Housing at 1409 W Fifth Ave (7-0)
• Approved zoning change at 103 Circle Lane from O to C-G-1 (7-0)
• Approved emergency ordinance setting certified tax rate at $1.3956 per $100 (7-0)
• Approved $526,900 contract amendment for First Creek Greenway project (7-0)
• Approved $261,526 contract for Inskip Pool deck replacement (7-0)
• Approved $2.01M IMPROVE grant for Intelligent Transportation System (7-0)
• Approved $600,000 IMPROVE grant for fuel tank replacement (7-0)

Beer Board Regular

The Beer Board will consider several new beer permit applications for local businesses and one special event permit for First Lutheran Church and School. The meeting also includes a presentation by the Metro Drug Coalition Youth Prevention Coordinator.

• Special event beer permit request for First Lutheran Church and School
• Beer permit requests for 9 businesses including Bertie Rose Cafe and Old Sevier Market
• Addendum permit requests for 808 Music Group and No Comply Pizza
• Postponement of Weigel's #131 at 9629 Kingston Pike

The Knoxville Beer Board approved nine beer permit requests at its September 15, 2026 regular meeting, most pending final documentation, and approved one special event permit for First Lutheran Church and School. One permit request (Weigel's #131) was postponed to October, and two addendum items (808 Music Group and No Comply Pizza) were extended to the October 27, 2026 meeting. All votes were 6-0, with three members absent. No administrative hearings or resolutions were held.

• Approved special event beer permit for First Lutheran Church and School (6-0)
• Approved beer permit for Bertie Rose Cafe and Harold's Bar pending final documentation (6-0)
• Approved beer permit for Big Bull Mart pending final documentation (6-0)
• Approved beer permit for Cedar Bluff Market pending final documentation (6-0)
• Approved beer permit for Flying Biscuit - DT (6-0)
• Approved beer permit for Old Sevier Market pending final documentation (6-0)
• Approved beer permit for Partee Golf pending final documentation (6-0)
• Approved beer permit for Q Korean Steakhouse pending final documentation (6-0)

City Council Regular

The Knoxville City Council will consider several ordinances and resolutions, including zoning changes for properties on Francis Road, Hoitt Avenue, and Cedar Bluff Road, a limit on monkeys per household, and a $3 million grant application for home modifications. The meeting also includes appeals of Planning Commission denials for properties on Sevier Avenue and Circle Lane, and various contracts and grants.

• Zoning change at 1325 Francis Road from AG to RN-1
• Zoning change at 1900 Hoitt Avenue from RN-2 to I-MU
• Zoning change at 425 N. Cedar Bluff Road to C-G-2
• Appeal for 2704 Sevier Avenue to Neighborhood Commercial
• Contract with Lockton Companies for compensation study up to $239,000

The Knoxville City Council denied an appeal to rezone 2704 Sevier Avenue from residential to neighborhood commercial, upholding the Planning Commission's denial. The council also approved a monkey ownership limit ordinance, effective January 1, 2027, and a compensation study contract. Several other zoning changes, grants, and certificates of compliance were approved.

• Denied appeal for commercial rezoning at 2704 Sevier Avenue (5-4)
• Approved monkey limit ordinance, effective Jan 1, 2027 (8-1)
• Approved $239,000 compensation study contract (8-0)
• Approved $100,000 historic preservation grant for 1707 Loves Creek Road (8-1)
• Approved $3.87M transit operating grant with $3.27M city match (9-0)
• Approved $3M HUD home modification grant application (9-0)
• Approved rezoning at 1325 Francis Road to single-family residential (9-0)
• Approved rezoning at 103 Circle Lane to general commercial (9-0)

City Council Workshop

This is a workshop meeting of the Knoxville City Council, focused on redevelopment and special project areas. The council will receive a presentation that recaps a previous workshop on public-private partnership tools and introduces opportunity/key sites, followed by questions and discussion. No formal votes or decisions are scheduled.

• Recap of May 21, 2026 Public Private Partnership Tools Workshop
• Introduction to redevelopment and special project areas
• Discussion of opportunity/key sites

The City Council held a workshop to discuss redevelopment and special project areas, including the former Sanitary Laundry building, Standard Knitting Mill, North Waterfront, Down River Master Site, Jackson Avenue/McClung Warehouse, and the former Safety site. No formal votes or decisions were made; the session was informational, with discussion on public engagement and timelines for proposals.

• No formal decisions made; workshop only

City Council Regular

The Knoxville City Council is holding its regular meeting on August 18, 2026, to consider a range of items including proposed ordinances on second reading (budget amendment, charter changes), resolutions for contracts and grants, and several zoning and plan amendments on first reading. The meeting will also include public forum and routine approvals.

• Ordinance to amend FY 26/27 operating and capital budgets
• Charter amendments to align council election process with mayor's (second reading)
• Resolution for Magnolia Avenue Streetscapes Phase 3 contract with Adams Contracting, LLC ($2,807,530.50)
• Resolution for PILOT agreement with WP South Acquisitions for properties on Patton and Georgia Streets
• Ordinance to limit number of monkeys per household without kennel permit

The Knoxville City Council approved a charter amendment (O-62-2026) to align council election procedures with the mayor's, sending it to voters for approval. A competing charter amendment (O-63-2026) proposed by Councilmember Parker failed. The council also approved the consent calendar, including budget amendments, and several resolutions for contracts, grants, and property transfers.

• Approved charter amendment O-62-2026 aligning council elections with mayor's (6-2)
• Denied charter amendment O-63-2026 on council election process (2-6)
• Approved consent calendar including budget amendment O-61-2026 (8-0)
• Approved $2.8M Magnolia Avenue Streetscapes Phase 3 contract (8-0)
• Approved $338,800 construction engineering inspection contract (8-0)
• Approved $54,500 Volunteer Ministry Center case management support (8-0)
• Approved $75,000 Southeastern Housing Foundation support at Flenniken Landing (8-0)
• Approved North Waterfront Redevelopment Plan (7-1)

Beer Board Regular

The Knoxville Beer Board will hold its regular meeting to consider a variety of beer permit requests, including new permits, renewals, and special event permits for festivals and concerts. The agenda also includes a request to postpone Weigel's #131, approval of previous minutes, and reports from officers. Several businesses are seeking permits, including restaurants, bars, and convenience stores across multiple districts.

• Weigel's #131 (9629 Kingston Pike) request to be postponed
• Special event permits: FlavorDay Festival, Hola Festival 2026, Traditional Music Concert Series, Sunset on Central
• New beer permits: Cafe 4 (4 Market Sq), The Kennedy (430 S Gay St), Puckers Sports Grill (115 Mimosa Ave), Loco Burro (7600 Kingston Pike), Flying Biscuit - DT (327 W Summit Hill Dr), House of Strays (205 W Jackson Ave), Jackie's Dream (498 E Jackson Ave), Lonsdale Market (3208 Rudy St), Merchants Vapor (112 Cedar Ln), Racetrac #2692 (1415 Third Creek Rd), Scruffy Pig (937 N Central St), Shona's (1547 Clinch Ave), Speedway #42790 (4521 Rutledge Pike), Taqueria Monarca (6050 Western Ave)
• Addendum items: Los Portales (4505 Asheville Hwy), Ruff Life Hideout (1935 Callahan Dr), Calhoun's (multiple locations), Copper Cellar/Cappuccino's (7316 Kingston Pk), Corner 16 (9637 Kroger Park Dr)

The Knoxville Beer Board approved 13 beer permit requests, including four special event permits and nine regular permits, with several approvals pending final documentation. Two permit requests were postponed to the September meeting, one was withdrawn, and six permits were extended to the October meeting. The board also noted two compliance citations for selling to a minor and the surrender of three permits.

• Approved special event permits for Big Kahuna Wings Foundation, Hola Hora Latina, Jubilee Community Arts, and Knox Music Coalition (8-0)
• Approved beer permits for Cafe 4, The Kennedy, Puckers Sports Grill, Loco Burro, House of Strays, Jackie's Dream, Lonsdale Market, Merchants Vapor, Racetrac #2692, Shona's, Speedway #42790, and Taqueria Monarca, pending final documentation (8-0)
• Postponed beer permit for Flying Biscuit - DT to September meeting (8-0)
• Postponed Weigel's #131 and Scruffy Pig to September meeting (unanimous consent)
• Withdrawn permit request for Los Portales (unanimous consent)
• Extended permits for Ruff Life Hideout, Calhoun's (three locations), Copper Cellar/Cappuccino's, and Corner 16 to October meeting (8-0)
• Noted surrender of permits for Seed Coffee Co, Tobacco King, and Honeybee Coffee Company
• Noted compliance check citations for two permittees selling to a minor

City Council Regular

The Knoxville City Council will hold its regular meeting on August 4, 2026, to consider second readings of zoning ordinances for properties at 0 and 3223 Valley View Drive, confirm a new member to the Knoxville Utilities Board, and vote on multiple resolutions including grants, contracts, and budget amendments.

• Zoning change for 0 and 3223 Valley View Drive from RN-1 to RN-5 (single-family to general residential)
• Confirmation of Sara Hedstrom Pinnell to Knoxville Utilities Board of Commissioners
• Approval of $62,702.50 increase for LT Ross Building reroof project (total $841,902.50)
• Application for $5M HUD PRO Housing grant with no local match required
• Amendment to City Charter to align council election processes with mayoral elections

The Council approved two charter amendments on first reading that would change how city council elections are conducted. One amendment (sponsored by Vice-Mayor Fugate and others) passed 6-3 and would align council elections with the mayor's election process. A second amendment (sponsored by Councilmember Parker) passed 5-4 and would change district voting to only allow voters within a district to vote in that district's council election. Both will go to voters for approval. The Council also approved numerous routine resolutions and ordinances, including a $5M federal housing grant application, a $11.9M transit grant, and a $128,626 playground surfacing contract.

• Approved charter amendment aligning council elections with mayor's election process (6-3)
• Approved competing charter amendment changing district voting to district-only voters (5-4)
• Approved application for up to $5M federal PRO Housing grant (9-0)
• Approved $11.9M federal transit grant application with $1.19M city match (9-0)
• Approved $128,626 playground surfacing contract at Suttree Landing Park (9-0)
• Approved $31,069.84 from Downtown Knoxville Alliance for downtown cameras (8-1)
• Approved $10,000 from Downtown Knoxville Alliance for police mounted unit equipment (8-1)
• Approved $62,702.50 increase for LT Ross Building reroof project (9-0)

Audit Committee Regular

The Audit Committee will receive updates on the Internal Auditor’s engagement letter for FY2026, the Comptroller’s feedback on the FY2025 Annual Financial Report, and the department’s work plan. Members will also discuss and possibly set the 2027 meeting cadence.

• Update on FY2026 Internal Auditor engagement letter
• Comptroller feedback on FY2025 Annual Financial Report
• Discussion and possible action on 2027 meeting schedule and cadence

The Knoxville Audit Committee approved its work plan and set a 2027 meeting schedule. The committee also heard updates on the external audit engagement letter, a Comptroller letter, and a proposal to allow executive sessions. No new waste, fraud, or abuse complaints were reported.

• Approved minutes of June 17, 2026 regular meeting (5-0)
• Approved work plan for Internal Auditor (5-0)
• Reached consensus on 2027 meeting schedule (months: Jan, Feb, Apr, Jun, Jul, Sep, Nov)

Beer Board Regular

The Knoxville Beer Board will review applications for special event beer permits, including requests from Breast Connect Inc., First Lutheran Church and School, Immaculate Conception Church, and St. George Greek Orthodox Church. The board will also consider regular beer permit applications from businesses such as Au Bon Coin LLC, Country Road Knoxville LLC, The Drop Inn, and others. Additional agenda items include approval of minutes, officer reports, administrative hearings, and other business.

• Special event beer permit – Breast Connect Inc., 1400 KENNESAW AVE (6th District)
• Special event beer permit – First Lutheran Church and School, 1207 N BROADWAY (4th District)
• Beer permit – Au Bon Coin LLC, 724 N BROADWAY (4th District)
• Beer permit – Country Road Knoxville LLC, 300 WEST MAGNOLIA AVE STE 120 (6th District)
• Beer permit – The Drop Inn (PIER GROUP LLC), 3650 BAMBOO WAY (1st District)

The Knoxville Beer Board approved all beer permit requests on the agenda, including four special event permits and twelve regular permits, with several approvals pending final documentation. The board also postponed Merchants Vapor's permit request to the August meeting and referred Suttree's Hi Gravity Tavern to a suspension/revocation hearing for failing to meet the KASK class requirement.

• Approved special event permits for Breast Connect Inc, First Lutheran Church, Immaculate Conception Church, and St. George Greek Orthodox Church (8-0)
• Approved beer permits for Au Bon Coin, Country Road Knoxville, The Drop Inn, Family Neighbor, Good Judy's (x2), Hattie B's, Hilton Knoxville (x2), La Patrona, Lola's Cocktail Lounge, Marriott Knoxville Downtown (x2), The Tennessean, and Weekendz (8-0 each)
• Postponed Merchants Vapor permit request to August meeting (unanimous)
• Extended beer permits for 808 Music Group and No Comply Pizza to September 15, 2026 meeting (8-0)
• Referred Suttree's Hi Gravity Tavern to suspension/revocation hearing for KASK class non-compliance (8-0)

City Council Regular

The City Council will vote on several infrastructure contracts, grant applications for police and fire services, and housing funds. The body is also considering a zoning change and the closure of an alley near 1902 Forest Avenue.

• Award of up to $2,000,000 from the Affordable Rental Development Fund for 67 units at 1880 Huron Street
• Agreement with Consor North America, Inc. up to $499,894.00 for Gay Street Bridge inspection
• Agreement with Stansell Electric Company, Inc. up to $310,874.00 for Chapman Highway and Fort Avenue traffic signals
• Zoning change for 0 and 3223 Valley View Drive from RN-1 to RN-5
• Ordinance to close an unnamed alley near 1902 Forest Avenue

The Knoxville City Council approved all agenda items, including a $2,000,000 award from the Affordable Rental Development Fund to DGA St. Mary's LP for 67 affordable rental units at 1880 Huron Street. The council also approved several contracts and grants, including traffic signal improvements, bridge inspection services, and fire and police grants. All votes were 8-0 except for two items that passed 7-1, with Councilmember Parker dissenting. The meeting was procedural with no public forum speakers.

• Approved $2M Affordable Rental Development Fund award to DGA St. Mary's LP for 67 units (8-0)
• Approved $310,874 traffic signal contract with Stansell Electric (8-0)
• Approved $499,894 Gay Street Bridge inspection contract with Consor North America (8-0)
• Approved $125,000 budget/accounting services contract with Abacus Hive (8-0)
• Approved $450,000 CDBG subgrantee agreement for Emergency and Minor Home Repair (8-0)
• Approved $350,000 CDBG funding for Operation Backyard home repair (8-0)
• Approved $374,520 Oracle Cloud implementation amendment (7-1, Parker no)
• Approved rezoning at Valley View Dr from RN-1 to RN-5 (7-1, Parker no)

• Close unnamed alley near 1902 Forest Avenue — introduced
  1902 Forest Avenue
• Chapman Highway and Fort Avenue Traffic Signal Improvements Project — introduced
  $310,874
• Gay Street Bridge inspection services — introduced
  Gay Street Bridge · $499,894
• Professional budget and accounting services — introduced
  $125,000
• Affordable Rental Development Fund - 1880 Huron Street — introduced
  1880 Huron Street · 67 units (67 affordable) · $2.0M
• Emergency and Minor Home Repair program CDBG funding — introduced
  $450,000
• Operation Backyard minor home repair program CDBG funding — introduced
  $350,000
• Oracle Cloud Software implementation services — introduced
  $374,520

City Council Workshop

The City Council holds a workshop to receive a presentation on the Comprehensive Plan Update, covering existing conditions, public input, and future considerations. No votes or formal actions are scheduled; the session is for council discussion only.

• Presentation on the Comprehensive Plan Update, including current conditions and public feedback

The City Council held a workshop to receive a presentation on the comprehensive plan update from Knoxville-Knox County Planning and Interface Studios. Councilmembers discussed survey responses, the nine-month process, preservation, growth, complete communities, underutilized land, attainable housing, and state law limitations. No formal decisions or votes were made; the meeting was informational only.

• Received comprehensive plan update presentation (workshop, no vote)
• Discussed plan goals and policy recommendations (no action)
• Adjourned at 7:08pm (procedural)

City Council Regular

The Knoxville City Council will vote on zoning changes for two residential properties, approve a one-year moratorium on large data centers, and authorize multiple contracts and grants for infrastructure, housing, and transit projects.

• Emergency ordinance proposing a one-year moratorium on data centers using 10+ megawatts.
• Zoning changes for 3225 Joyce Ave and 732-758 Hialeah Dr from RN-1 to RN-2.
• $4.5M agreement for Western Heights Phase V infrastructure improvements.
• $1.35M federal transit grant application for Knoxville Area Transit.
• Public hearing on a setback variance appeal for a detached garage at 1503 Southgate Rd.

The City Council approved several ordinances regarding street closures and zoning changes. Additionally, the council authorized various resolutions for pedestrian safety, bridge greenway design, stormwater improvements, and community development grants.

• Approved closing a portion of E Oklahoma Avenue (7-0)
• Approved rezoning 3225 Joyce Avenue to RN-2 (7-0)
• Approved rezoning Hialeah Drive properties to RN-2 (7-0)
• Approved zoning appeal for 1503 Southgate Road (7-0)
• Approved Sutherland Avenue pedestrian safety initiative (7-0)
• Approved South Knoxville Bridge Greenway design contract amendment (7-0)
• Approved North Cherry Street Stormwater Improvements contract amendment (7-0)
• Approved Samsara, Inc. vehicle tracking service extension (7-0)

• Close southern portion of E Oklahoma Avenue — introduced
  510 E Oklahoma Avenue
• 3225 Joyce Avenue Zoning Change — introduced
  3225 Joyce Avenue
• Hialeah Drive Zoning Change — introduced
  732, 734, 740, 742, 748, 750, 756, and 758 Hialeah Drive
• Scott Albrecht Variance Appeal — introduced
  1503 Southgate Road
• Pedestrian Road Safety Initiative - Sutherland Avenue — introduced
  Sutherland Avenue between Longview Road and Hollywood Road · $300,000
• North Cherry Street Stormwater Improvements Project — introduced
  North Cherry Street · $2.9M
• Samsara, Inc. Telematics Extension — introduced
  $177,634
• Western Heights Phase V Infrastructure Improvements — introduced
  Western Heights · $4.5M

Beer Board Regular

The board is considering multiple beer permit applications for local businesses including restaurants, breweries, and markets. Additionally, they will review a special event permit request for the German Fest at First Lutheran Church.

• Special event permit: First Lutheran Church and School - German Fest
• Beer permit: The 1951 Club (6601 Kingston Pike)
• Beer permit: Buffleheads (1004 Sevier Ave)
• Beer permit: Cedar Corner Market (9133 Executive Park Dr)
• Beer permit: Crafty Bastard Brewery (6 Emory Place)

The board granted multiple conditional approvals for local businesses including The 1951 Club and Crafty Bastard Brewery. Several applications were postponed or withdrawn at the request of the applicants.

• Approved May minutes (8-0)
• Postponed First Lutheran Church German Fest to July 21
• Withdrew UUNIK Academy Grooves in the Garden permit request
• Approved The 1951 Club beer permit pending documentation (8-0)
• Approved Buffleheads beer permit pending documentation (8-0)
• Approved Cedar Corner Market beer permit pending documentation (8-0)
• Approved Crafty Bastard Brewery beer permit pending documentation (8-0)
• Approved Jaboni's Pizzeria beer permit pending documentation (8-0)

• First Lutheran Church and School-German Fest Special Event Beer Permit
  1207 N Broadway
• The 1951 Club Beer Permit Request
  6601 Kingston Pike
• Buffleheads Beer Permit Request
  1004 Sevier Ave
• Cedar Corner Market Beer Permit Request
  9133 Executive Park Dr
• Crafty Bastard Brewery Beer Permit Request
  6 Emory Place
• Jaboni's Pizzeria Beer Permit Request
  7403 Kingston Pike
• La Patrona Beer Permit Request
  104 Cedar Lane
• Market La Amistad Beer Permit Request
  5543 Clinton Hwy

City Council Regular

The Knoxville City Council will vote on amendments increasing state funding for the Liberty Street Multimodal Project and Northwest Greenway Connector Phase II. The agenda also includes approvals for over $250,000 in grants supporting homeless shelter and rapid re-housing services, alongside a new management contract for the Knoxville Convention Center. Additionally, council members will adopt the FY 2027-2032 Capital Improvements Program, review two residential rezonings, and consider closing two city alleys.

• Increase DOT funding for Liberty Street Multimodal Project to $2,332,342 and Northwest Greenway Connector Phase II to $7,227,492.
• Approve up to $250,000 in grants for homeless shelter, rapid re-housing, and eviction mediation services.
• Adopt the FY 2027-2032 Capital Improvements Program and FY 2027 Capital Improvements Budget.
• Rezoning properties at 3225 Joyce Avenue and 732-758 Hialeah Drive from RN-1 to RN-2.
• Approve a one-year management contract for the Knoxville Convention Center at up to $905,000 annually.

Council approved a $7.2M increase for the Northwest Greenway Connector Phase II project and extended its completion to 2028. Also approved funding for traffic signal services, homeless shelter contracts, and an alley closure. Two items were postponed: a zoning appeal and another alley closure.

• Approved $7.2M amendment for Northwest Greenway Connector Phase II (8-0)
• Approved appointment to African American Equity Restoration Task Force with amended commitment (8-0)
• Approved $2.33M Liberty Street Multimodal Project amendment (8-0)
• Approved $60K/year traffic signal contract with Davis H. Elliot (8-0)
• Approved $60K/year traffic signal contract with Integrated Response Systems (8-0)
• Approved $65K homeless shelter funding for Salvation Army (8-0)
• Approved $30K homeless shelter funding for Catholic Charities (8-0)
• Approved $54.72K homeless shelter funding for Volunteer Ministry Center (8-0)

• Close unnamed alley near 1902 Forest Avenue
  1902 Forest Avenue
• Variance appeal for detached garage setback - Scott Albrecht
  1503 Southgate Road
• Liberty Street Multimodal Project funding amendment
  Liberty Street · $2.3M
• Northwest Greenway Connector Phase II Project funding amendment
  $7.2M
• Legends Global management of Convention Center and Civic Auditorium
  Knoxville Convention Center, World's Fair Exhibition Hall, a · $905,000
• FY2026 Office for Victims of Crimes grant
  $500,000

Audit Committee Regular

The committee will review updates on reporting procedures for waste, fraud, and abuse of government funds. Members will also consider new policy proposals regarding the role of the internal auditor and upcoming member nominations.

• Proposed communication regarding public funds granted to non-profits
• Amendment to executive order on reporting waste, fraud, and abuse
• Nominations for expiring terms of Nikki Elliott and Ronnie Brabson
• New policy on internal auditor role and reporting
• Engagement letter for fiscal year ending June 30, 2026

The committee approved a draft policy defining the Internal Auditor's role in reporting waste, fraud, and abuse for City Council approval. Members also recommended the term extensions of Nikki Elliott and Ronnie Brabson. The Finance Department clarified that nonprofit appropriations will now be handled via Memorandums of Understanding rather than contracts.

• Approved draft policy on Internal Auditor's role in waste, fraud, and abuse reporting (7-0)
• Recommended term extensions for Nikki Elliott and Ronnie Brabson (4-0)
• Approved April 15, 2026 meeting minutes (5-0)

City Council Regular

City Council will vote on a zoning appeal overturning a Board of Zoning Appeals decision regarding CareCuts' religious land use exemption at 5200 Clinton Highway. The agenda also includes multiple contracts for infrastructure and events, board appointments, and a $4,500 appropriation for youth event grants through the Empower Knox program.

• Zoning appeal: overturning BZA decision on CareCuts religious land use exemption at 5200 Clinton Highway (District 5)
• $465,028.50 contract with Adams Contracting for North Cherry Water Quality Improvements Project (District 6)
• $598,000 contract with Ardurra Group for Stormwater Program Funding Feasibility Study
• $75,000 Historic Preservation grant to Paragon Development L.P. for restoration at 825 N. Central Street (District 4)
• $15,000 AARP Community Challenge grant for Vision Zero traffic safety initiative (District 4)

City Council denied an appeal that sought to overturn the Board of Zoning Appeals' decision that CareCuts' services qualify as a religious land use exempt from special use approval. The council also approved several reappointments to boards, a $4,500 youth event grant, multiple engineering contracts, and a resolution honoring Knoxville Community Media. One resolution for collections services was postponed for two weeks.

• Denied appeal to overturn BZA ruling on religious land use at 5200 Clinton Highway (7-0, 1 abstain)
• Approved reappointments to Police Advisory and Review Committee (8-0)
• Approved reappointment/appointment to Design Review Board (8-0)
• Approved appointments to Metropolitan Knoxville Airport Authority (8-0)
• Approved $4,500 youth event grant from Community Safety budget (8-0)
• Approved $465,028.50 contract with Adams Contracting for water quality project (8-0)
• Approved $598,000 feasibility study contract with Ardurra Group (8-0)
• Postponed collections services contract with Perdue Brandon for two weeks (unanimous)

City Council Regular

The Knoxville City Council will consider approving the annual budget and property tax levy for fiscal year 2026-27. They will also vote on multiple zoning changes, including a controversial affordable housing redevelopment on Nora Road, and a $4.6 million street resurfacing contract. Other items include a stadium alcohol service plan and a corridor study.

• Annual appropriations and tax levy for FY 2026-27 (items 10e, 10f)
• MatCo Affordable Housing rezoning for 4524-4534 Nora Road (items 10j-10l, staff recommended denial)
• Contract with Rogers Group, Inc. for 2026 Resurfacing Phase II up to $4,583,319 (item 12ae)
• Boyd Sports multiuse stadium alcohol service plan (item 12ad)
• Tazewell Pike Corridor Study up to $250,000 (item 12af)

The council approved the fiscal year 2026-27 budget appropriation 8-1, with Councilmember Parker voting no. A property tax levy was approved unanimously. A ban on tobacco and vapor products in age-restricted venues passed 6-3, and zoning amendments for affordable housing on Nora Road were approved on consent.

• Approved annual appropriations budget for FY 2026-27 (8-1)
• Approved property tax levy for FY 2026-27 (9-0)
• Approved classification and compensation plan amendment (9-0)
• Approved tobacco/vapor product ban in age-restricted venues (6-3)
• Postponed alley closure near 1902 Forest Avenue for four weeks (9-0)
• Approved East City Sector Plan amendment for MatCo Affordable Housing at Nora Road (9-0)
• Approved One Year Plan amendment for MatCo Affordable Housing at Nora Road (9-0)
• Appointed Mark Lochhead to Knox County Board of Equalization (9-0)

Beer Board Regular

The Beer Board will consider approving minutes from April and hear reports from officers. The main business is voting on 8 regular beer permit requests and 7 special event beer permit requests for events like Knox Asian Festival and Bijou Jubilee. An administrative hearing for Fastop Market #214 on Middlebrook Pike is also scheduled.

• Chick-N-Sack Sports Lounge beer permit at 410 W Jackson Ave
• Crafty Bastard Brewery (two permits) at 6 Emory Place
• Keith Avenue Market beer permit at 2236 Keith Ave
• Metro Diner beer permit at 6546 Clinton Highway
• Administrative hearing for Fastop Market #214 at 5501 Middlebrook Pike

The Beer Board approved beer permits for Chick-n-Sack Sports Lounge (pending final documentation), Keith Avenue Market, and Metro Diner (pending final documentation), as well as seven special event permits. Two Crafty Bastard Brewery permits were postponed to June. Two permits were extended to July and August respectively. One application was withdrawn, and an administrative hearing resulted in no further action.

• Approved special event permits for Goldens in the Park, Barktoberfest, Knox Asian Festival, Bijou Jubilee, Martini at the Mansion, World Cup Watch Party, and Knoxville Brewfest (8-0 each)
• Approved Chick-n-Sack Sports Lounge beer permit pending final documentation (7-0-0-1)
• Approved Keith Avenue Market beer permit (8-0)
• Approved Metro Diner beer permit pending final documentation (8-0)
• Postponed Crafty Bastard Brewery (2 permits) to June meeting (8-0 each)
• Extended 808 Music Group permit to July meeting (8-0)
• Extended Los Portales permit to August meeting (8-0)
• Withdrew Pluggdin application (unanimous consent)

City Council Workshop

The City Council will receive a presentation on economic development incentives, including their importance, appropriateness, process, available tools, public-private partnerships, and performance metrics. Council will then discuss and ask questions. No voting or formal action is scheduled.

• Discussion of why economic development incentives are important
• Overview of available public finance tools
• Highlights of public-private partnerships
• Review of performance metrics for incentives
• Council questions and discussion follow the presentation

The City Council held a workshop to receive a presentation on corridor redevelopment and public finance tools, including incentives, TIFs, PILOTs, and public-private partnerships. No votes or formal actions were taken; the meeting was informational only.

Rules Committee Regular

The committee will discuss and potentially recommend changes to council rules, including adding rezoning ordinances and certificates of alcohol compliance to the consent calendar. It will also consider allowing a councilmember to request a roll-call vote if unsure of a voice-vote outcome. The meeting includes approval of prior minutes and public comment.

• Amendment to include rezoning ordinances on consent calendar
• Amendment to add certificates of alcohol compliance to consent calendar
• Amendment to allow councilmember to order roll-call vote after a voice-vote
• Proposal to amend Rules Committee Procedures

The committee approved three rule amendments: adding rezoning ordinances and alcohol compliance certificates to the consent calendar, and allowing any councilmember to call for a roll-call vote. A separate proposal on committee procedures was postponed. The March meeting minutes were not approved due to a procedural irregularity.

• Approved adding ‘Honorary Resolutions’ to Rule 2 (adopted by Council earlier)
• Approved adding rezoning ordinances to consent calendar (5-0)
• Approved adding certificates of alcohol compliance to consent calendar (5-0)
• Approved amendment allowing councilmember to order roll-call vote if uncertain of voice-vote result (5-0)
• Postponed proposal to amend Rules Committee procedures to next meeting (5-0)
• Requested staff place the three approved amendments on a Council agenda by end of fiscal year (5-0)
• Minutes of March 19, 2026 failed to approve (4-0-1 absent)

City Council Regular

The City Council will vote on a resolution to apply for an $11 million federal grant for traffic safety improvements, with a required $2.2 million local match. Also on the agenda are several zoning changes, including a controversial request to rezone Nora Road properties for affordable housing, and an ordinance to ban tobacco and vapor products in age-restricted venues. Numerous contract amendments and budget adjustments will be considered as well.

• Resolution for $11M Safe Streets and Roads for All grant with $2.2M local match
• First reading of ordinance to prohibit tobacco/vapor products in age-restricted venues
• Zoning changes for MatCo Affordable Housing at 4524-4534 Nora Road (staff recommended denial)
• Contract amendment for Baum Drive stormwater improvements, +$33,380 (total $652,988.50)
• Contract amendment for Samsara AVL licenses and cameras for brush pickup, $207,400/year

Council approved the 2026-2027 Annual Action Plan for HUD grants (8-1), authorizing submission for CDBG, HOME, and ESG funds. Also authorized a Safe Streets for All grant application up to $11M with $2.2M local match. Other approvals included a budget amendment, several contract amendments (stormwater, fleet, bus tires), a farmers market agreement, and a broadband seniors program subrecipient agreement.

• Approved FY26 budget amendment (O-26-2026) (9-0)
• Approved HUD Annual Action Plan submission (R-129-2026) (8-1)
• Authorized Safe Streets for All grant application (R-134-2026) (9-0)
• Approved Baum Drive stormwater contract amendment (R-126-2026) (9-0)
• Approved North Cherry Street stormwater amendment (R-127-2026) (9-0)
• Approved farmers market operation agreement with Nourish Knoxville (R-131-2026) (9-0)
• Approved broadband seniors program subrecipient agreement (R-132-2026) (9-0)
• Approved invasive species control contracts (R-133-2026) (9-0)

Legislative Budget Hearings

The City Council is holding a legislative budget hearing to discuss the proposed operating and capital improvements budget for fiscal year 2026/2027. Presentations will cover all city departments and partner agencies, followed by a public hearing at 5:00 PM.

• Mayor's budget introduction and overview
• Public safety presentations for police, fire, and emergency communications
• Discussion of operations including transit, engineering, and public service
• Partner agencies including Zoo Knoxville, Visit Knoxville, and the Chamber
• Public hearing for citizen comments on the proposed budget

The Knoxville City Council held a legislative budget hearing to discuss the proposed budget for the upcoming fiscal year. No votes or formal decisions were taken during the hearing, which included presentations and discussions on various department budgets.

Beer Board Regular

The Knoxville Beer Board will vote on numerous new and renewal beer permit requests, including for Bearden Beer Market, Crafty Bastard Brewery, and multiple Calhoun's locations. The board will also hold administrative hearings for businesses like Dollar General, Galaxy E Smoke, and Hampton Inn & Suites.

• Beer permit for Bearden Beer Market at 4524 Old Kingston Pk
• Beer permit for Crafty Bastard Brewery at 6 Emory Place
• Multiple Calhoun's permits (6 locations) from The Copper Cellar Corp
• Special event permits for Blount Mansion and Muse Knoxville
• Admin hearings for Dollar General, Galaxy E Smoke, Hampton Inn, Melting Pot, Save A Lot, Ian's Market

The Knoxville Beer Board unanimously approved a special event beer permit for Muse Knoxville. It also approved nine beer permits pending final documentation, including for Bearden Beer Market, Corner Market, Petro's Chili & Chips, Ruff Life Hideout, Sonny's Pizza & Wings, Up N Smoky, and multiple Calhoun's locations. Two Crafty Bastard Brewery permits and one Blount Mansion special event permit were postponed to May 26. One permit for Plugdin was postponed due to the applicant's absence.

• Approved Muse Knoxville special event beer permit (9-0)
• Approved Bearden Beer Market on/off permit (9-0, pending docs)
• Approved Corner Market permit (9-0, pending docs)
• Approved Petro's Chili & Chips permit (9-0, pending docs)
• Approved Ruff Life Hideout permit (9-0, pending docs)
• Approved Sonny's Pizza & Wings two permits (9-0, pending docs)
• Approved Up N Smoky permit (9-0, pending docs)
• Approved Calhoun's four permits (9-0, pending docs)

City Council Regular

The council will vote on adopting the 2026 One Year Plan and several zoning changes. Major spending items include a $565,300 contract for Chapman Highway design, $440,000 for affordable housing via Habitat for Humanity, and $450,000 to purchase 314 Union Avenue. First-reading ordinances include the FY 26/27 budget and tax levy.

• Adoption of 2026 One Year Plan (comprehensive land use)
• $565,300 contract with Kimley-Horn for Chapman Highway Improvements
• $440,000 from Affordable Housing Fund to Habitat for Humanity for 22 units at 4325 Pinehurst Dr
• $450,000 purchase of 314 Union Avenue from Knoxville Hotel Partners
• First reading of FY 26/27 budget and property tax levy

Council approved $440,000 from the Affordable Housing Fund to Knoxville Habitat for Humanity for building 22 affordable homeownership units at 4325 Pinehurst Drive (9-0). Also approved a $565,300 design contract for Chapman Highway Improvements (9-0) and adopted the 2026 One Year Plan, a zoning code amendment for historic overlay at 963 Worlds Fair Park Drive, and several other ordinances and resolutions on consent. Council also confirmed three appointments to the Golf Course Advisory Committee.

• Approved $440,000 to Habitat for Humanity for 22 affordable housing units (9-0)
• Approved $565,300 design contract for Chapman Highway Improvements (9-0)
• Adopted One Year Plan 2026 (9-0)
• Added H (Historic Overlay) zoning at 963 Worlds Fair Park Dr (8-0, 1 recused)
• Changed zoning at 5419 Jacksboro Pike from RN-1 to RN-2 (9-0)
• Amended City Code rules of procedure (9-0)
• Accepted $440,000 donation to Affordable Housing Fund (9-0)
• Appointed three members to Golf Course Advisory Committee (9-0 each)

City Council Workshop

The City Council is holding a workshop to review the city's grantmaking process, including eligibility, current individual and federal grant programs, and the overall timeline. They will also discuss Community Improvement Funds. No votes or decisions are expected at this informational session.

• Agency eligibility requirements for grants
• City grantmaking overview
• Individual grantmaking program review
• Federal grant program review
• Community Improvement Funds discussion

This was a workshop meeting only; council heard a presentation on grantmaking programs and discussed future timelines, budget processes, and related topics. No formal decisions or votes were taken.

Audit Committee Regular

The Audit Committee will discuss updates on ongoing audits of short-term rentals and the Knoxville Alcohol Seller Training program. They will also review complaints of waste, fraud, and abuse and consider a process for adjusting the work plan scope.

• Update on Short-Term Rentals Audit
• Update on Knoxville Alcohol Seller Training (KAST) Audit
• One-year review of Fraud, Waste, and Abuse process
• Discussion on process for adding/removing/adjusting work plan items
• Report from Finance Department on complaints of waste, fraud, and abuse

The Audit Committee voted 7-0 to request City Council ask the Mayor to modify her executive order on waste, fraud, and abuse reporting to include the Internal Auditor as a recipient of all reports. The committee also gave low priority to a short-term rental audit and discussed plans for a grants compliance audit. Previous meeting minutes were approved unanimously.

• Approved request to modify executive order on fraud reporting (7-0)
• Approved February 18, 2026 meeting minutes (7-0)
• Suspended rules to give public speaker extra minute (voice vote carried)
• Gave low priority to short-term rental audit in work plan

City Council Regular

The City Council will conduct second readings of ordinances to rezone properties at 0 Bill Williams Ave and 2802 N. Broadway, changing sector and one-year plans from Traditional Neighborhood Residential to Medium Density Residential/Office. Several contracts will be voted on, including up to $1.45 million for street lighting maintenance and $250,000 for pavement markings. First reading items include a historic overlay at 963 World's Fair Park Drive and a zoning change at 5419 Jacksboro Pike.

• Rezoning of 0 Bill Williams Ave and 2802 N. Broadway to RN-6 district (multi-family residential)
• Contract for 2026 Pavement Marking On-Call Project up to $250,000
• Contract for Citywide Street Lighting Maintenance up to $1,450,000
• Amendment for Old City Streetscapes Phase II increasing contract by $51,307
• New gymnasium basketball goals at 12 community centers for up to $416,184

City Council unanimously approved a $1.45 million contract with Edison Electric for citywide street lighting and high mast maintenance, along with several other service contracts totaling over $2.8 million. Three zoning ordinances related to property on Bill Williams Avenue and N. Broadway were withdrawn.

• Approved $1.45M street lighting maintenance contract with Edison Electric (R-101-2026) (8-0)
• Approved $200K street lighting contract with Progression Electric (R-102-2026) (8-0)
• Approved $250K pavement marking on-call project (R-100-2026) (8-0)
• Approved $416,184 for new basketball goals at 12 community centers (R-104-2026) (8-0)
• Approved $51,307 contract increase for Old City Streetscapes Phase II (R-103-2026) (8-0)
• Approved $150K on-call electrical repair contract with Edison Electric (R-105-2026) (8-0)
• Approved $50K on-call electrical repair contract with Three Phase Power (R-106-2026) (8-0)
• Withdrew three ordinances for sector plan, one-year plan, and zoning changes at 0 Bill Williams Ave (8-0)

City Council Regular

The City Council will vote on several zoning reclassifications and a large bulk fuel agreement. The body is also reviewing multiple police grants and construction service contracts.

• Bulk fuel agreement with Tartan Oil LLC estimated at $4,152,459.32 per term
• Zoning change for 3010 Greenway Drive from RN-1 to RN-3
• Zoning change for 0 Washington Pike from O to C-N
• Zoning change for 0 Bill Williams Avenue and 2802 N. Broadway to RN-6
• Police Department grant applications totaling over $2.2 million for opioid abatement, gun crime, and traffic safety

The council approved the minutes from the March 17 meeting and reappointed Stephanie Taylor to the Civil Service Merit Board. It adopted three zoning ordinances changing classifications for properties on Greenway Drive, Washington Pike, and updating notice requirements, and postponed an alley‑closure ordinance. The body also authorized a $404,155 paving contract and three $200,000 on‑call construction service agreements. All votes were voice votes with eight members in favor, none opposed, and one absent (Councilmember Honeycutt).

• Approved March 17 meeting minutes (8-0-0, absent Honeycutt)
• Reappointed Stephanie Taylor to Civil Service Merit Board (8-0-0, absent Honeycutt)
• Approved Ordinance O-17-2026 aligning notice requirements (8-0-0, absent Honeycutt)
• Approved Ordinance O-18-2026 rezoning 3010 Greenway Drive (8-0-0, absent Honeycutt)
• Approved Ordinance O-19-2026 rezoning 0 Washington Pike (8-0-0, absent Honeycutt)
• Authorized up to $404,155 for citywide paving project (Resolution R-86) (8-0-0, absent Honeycutt)
• Authorized up to $200,000 for on‑call construction services (Resolutions R-87, R-88, R-89) (8-0-0, absent Honeycutt)
• Postponed alley‑closure ordinance near 1902 Forest Avenue to May 26, 2026 (8-0-0, absent Honeycutt)

• Amend Zoning Code Article 15, Section 15.2.B, Published Notice — approved
• Close unnamed alley near 1902 Forest Avenue — deferred
  1902 Forest Avenue