Commission to look at Animal Control

By Mike Steely
Senior Writer
steelym@knoxfocus.com
While the Knoxville City Council considers contracting with Young-Williams Animal Center for animal control services, the Knox County Commission’s work session has it on the agenda when it meets Monday, December 11.
The agreement between the city, county and YWAC, if approved, would “authorize a third party to furnish Animal Control enforcement” in the city and county, taking over the traditional enforcement with the approval of the sheriff and chief of police.
The commission may also look at having sheriff elections as the only political activity forbidden to members of the Knox County Sheriff’s Office Employees’ Merit System Board of Directors. The merit board is also asking to change its rules to permit them to hear grievances about any employee suspensions that result in a loss of pay. Both rule changes are before the commission on the first of two readings.
A tax break recommended by the Industrial Development Board is before the commission for a multi-use development known as “Prosperity Crossing” just off El Camino Lane. Also on the agenda is amending the bylaws of the Disability Advisory Council.
The election commission is asking for $357,000 for additional voting machines.
Also on first reading is the designation of the county as a “Broadband Ready Communications Community” and adding a new article to the county codes dealing with removal of inactive, broken or replaced utility poles.