Outgoing commissioners have long final meeting
By Mike Steely
Senior Writer
steelym@knoxfocus.com
More than 40 citizens signed up to speak at last week’s Knox County Commission meeting, the last session for four commissioners, and the topics ranged from opposition to Flock cameras and a tax break for a South Knoxville townhouse development to support for a land lease for an agricultural park off Rutledge Pike.
All those topics and others were discussed during the marathon session, prolonged by the number of public speakers and the long debate that led to banning the traffic cameras.
South Knox townhouses get tax break
A tax break for a South Knox townhouse development proposed by DWF John Sevier LLC was passed in a 7-4 vote over the objection of District 9 Commissioner Andy Fox, who represents the area. The project was granted a tax break for one-half of the units, which would be for affordable occupancy. Fox called the units “nice townhouses at the expense of tax revenue.”
A resolution to deny the development failed, and District Four’s Shane Jackson said the tax break was “not a handout to the developer” but would provide good affordable homes. Fox was critical of Jackson and recalled his vote for a development in Jackson’s district, adding, “I’m disappointed.”
“You’re not willing to give the same respect,” Fox said.
“My votes are not quid pro quo,” Jackson replied.
The approval of the PILOT tax break passed 7-4, with Fox joined in his opposition by District Five’s Angela Russell, District Seven’s Rhonda Lee, and District Eight’s Adam Thompson.
‘Knox County Homes not Hedge Funds’ ordinance passes
Passing on second reading was an ordinance proposed by First District Commissioner Damon Rawls that prohibits outside investors from purchasing more than 100 single-family homes for rental purposes. A motion to delay the vote for 30 days failed. Rawls said that “neighborhoods are becoming a portfolio” for large non-Knox County investors. Commissioners Fox, Russell and Thompson had some questions and objections. The resolution passed with three “No” votes from Fox, Russell and Lee.
Belltown beverage open carry approved
The growing Belltown Commons, a planned community with housing, restaurants and amenities on West Emory Road, was granted a Pedestrian Beverage Zone for one year in a 10-1 vote. The vote was in doubt when Commissioner Thompson said he was returning a gift card for use there. Developer Josh Sanderson of Belltown said the card was for commissioners to visit the establishment.
Chairwoman Gina Oster praised the development’s “cool vibe,” and Commissioner Terry Hill, who represents the area, said that every objection to the open drinks there was met and said the pilot program is self-contained and allows carrying drinks within designated boundaries only. Only Commissioner Rhonda Lee opposed the pilot program, which is similar to the city’s program on Market Square.
Other business
The very busy session also saw the approval of requiring a future second vote on any proposed Knox County budget, approval of a land-lease at Strong Stock Farms on Rutledge Pike for 120 acres for a future agricultural park, setting the property tax rate as unchanged, and approval of the North Waterfront Redevelopment plan.
The commission also approved the issuance of $155 million in general obligation bonds.
