The Neighborly Notice - Tuesday, Sept. 15, 2026.
Debbie Helsley
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1. NAC Applications Due Sept. 18
2. Is Your Neighborhood Participating in National Night Out?
3. Waste & Resource Management Offers Mobile Collection
4. City Seeks Input on Stormwater Infrastructure Survey
5. City Hosts Community Meeting for Victor Ashe Park
6. Housing and Neighborhood Development Request Input
7. Better Building Board and Public Officer Hearings Scheduled for September
8. What's Next Knoxville? Fall Meetings Continue
9. KKB East Knox Clean up Coming Up Sept. 26
10. Young Williams Organizes Fundraising Competition
11. Knoxville Botanical Garden Hosts Several Fall Events
12. Bike Walk Knoxville Offers Friendly Driver Program
13. TDEC Offers Housing Rebates
14. Knoxville Neighborhoods Calendar (click link for online calendar)
1. NAC Applications Due Sept. 18
There’s still time for residents to apply for a seat on the Neighborhood Advisory Council (NAC), but the deadline is fast approaching. Applications for the Jan. 2027 through Dec. 2029 term are due by 4:30 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 18.
The NAC brings together neighborhood leaders from across Knoxville to learn about City processes, provide feedback on policies and programs, advise the Office of Neighborhood Empowerment, and serve as a voice for residents on issues affecting neighborhoods citywide.
Current openings include:
- Seat 1-A (currently vacant)
- Seat 2-B (Alanna McKissack - term limited)
- Seat 4-B (Brent Waugh – term limited)
- Seat 5-A (Philip Hipps – term limited)
- Seat 6-A (Tiara-Lady Wilson)
- At-Large Seat C (Erin Hatfield)
Some current members are eligible to reapply, so not all open seats will necessarily be filled by new appointees.
This Council meets on the second Wednesday of each month, except for July and December. Members are appointed by the Mayor, confirmed by City Council, and serve three-year terms.
If you're passionate about Knoxville neighborhoods and want to help strengthen the connection between residents and local government, consider applying or encouraging a neighbor to do so.
For more information about how to recommend someone to NAC or to apply for a seat, please visit the City’s website or contact Debbie Sharp at dsh...@knoxvilletn.gov.
2. Is Your Neighborhood Participating in National Night Out?
Knoxville is celebrating National Night Out on Tuesday, Oct. 6, and neighborhoods across the city are planning to participate. Join communities across the city in hosting block parties, cookouts, and other events that promote safety and strengthen police-community partnerships.
If your neighborhood plans to participate, please submit your event information to Debbie Sharp at dsh...@knoxvilletn.gov and KPD at kpdwe...@knoxvilletn.gov no later than 4:30 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 1.
Please include the following information in your email:
- Neighborhood name
- Contact name
- Contact email
- Contact phone number
- Day of the celebration
- Time
- Event location (address)
- Planned activities (cookout, games, demonstrations, etc.)
National Night Out is an annual community-building campaign that promotes police-community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie, helping make our neighborhoods safer and more connected places to live.
The City of Knoxville is partnering with South Knoxville Neighborhood & Business Coalition for a National Night Out Kickoff Event, also scheduled for Tuesday, Oct. 6. If your neighborhood is not planning a celebration this year, you are welcome to join the Kickoff Event.
3. Waste & Resource Management Offers Mobile Collection
The City's Waste & Resources Management office will be holding a Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) mobile collection event on Wednesday, Sept. 16, from 3-6 p.m. at the Dutchtown Convenience Center. Residents from Knoxville, Knox County, and the surrounding area are encouraged to bring their accepted HHW items for safe disposal.
This is a FREE and convenient drive-through event. Visit www.KnoxvilleTN.gov/HHW for a full list of accepted items. This is a very convenient way to collect and dispose of these items from your home.
4. City Seeks Input on Stormwater Infrastructure Survey
Over the last three years, the City’s Stormwater Engineering Department has been analyzing the City’s stormwater infrastructure. This survey seeks public input on stormwater infrastructure and related challenges residents are experiencing.
The City will be accepting submissions until Friday, Sep. 18. This five-minute survey can be found here: Knoxville Stormwater Survey
The current phase of the Stormwater project includes:
- Evaluation of the Stormwater Asset Survey on our existing infrastructure
- Quantify the City’s infrastructure maintenance needs into real dollars
- Identify options for how to fund future maintenance and improvements
You may not think you know about storm water and engineering, but you have probably seen areas that flood in Knoxville. So, your input is valuable for making improvements.
5. City Hosts Community Meeting for Victor Ashe Park
The City’s Parks & Recreation and Public Service Departments invite you to attend a meeting at Victor Ashe Park to discuss proposed ecological improvements to a 17-acre area that is currently managed as turf grass on Tuesday, Sept. 22, at 5 p.m. at the Victor Ashe Park large pavilion by the restrooms and playground.
After a brief presentation, the group will walk to the proposed restoration site. So, you will want to wear comfortable shoes.
What is being proposed? Victor Ashe Park has large expanses of turf grass, heavily managed through routine mowing during the growing season. The City of Knoxville is proposing to convert a select 17-acre area to native grass and tree plantings as a practical way to create more functional, ecologically valuable public spaces in Knoxville.
Native landscapes can provide important habitat for pollinators, birds, and other wildlife while increasing plant diversity and improving the overall resilience of the landscape. Compared with traditional turf, native grass and wildflower areas typically require less frequent mowing and fewer long-term maintenance inputs, which can help reduce labor demands and save money over time. Restoration may also include planting or retaining scattered trees to create woodland oak savanna conditions that support a wider range of native species and add structure, shade, and visual interest to the landscape.
Existing cross-country trails and disc golf fairways will be maintained and continue to be open for recreational use.
Additional Information: Ecological Restoration - City of Knoxville. City staff looks forward to seeing you there.
The City of Knoxville ensures meaningful access to City programs, services, and activities to comply with Civil Rights Title VI and ADA Title II laws and reasonably provides translation, interpretation, modifications, accommodations, alternative formats, auxiliary aids and services.
To request language translation services, contact the Human Resources Department at Tit...@KnoxvilleTN.gov or 865-215-3100. For disability accommodations, contact the Human Resources Department at A...@KnoxvilleTN.gov or 865-215-3100 at least 72 hours prior to the event.
6. Housing and Neighborhood Development Request Input
The City of Knoxville is seeking public input on the draft Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report (CAPER) for 2025-26 which details how the City used federal housing and community development funds during the program year that ended June 30, 2026.
The draft report is available for public review and comment for 15 days, beginning Sept. 10 and ending Thursday, Sept. 24, 2026. The final report will be submitted to HUD by Monday, Sept. 28, 2026.
The CAPER describes how the City spent Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and HOME Investment Partnership Grant (HOME) funds received from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).
The report may be reviewed online at the City's Housing and Neighborhood Development website or in person at the Housing and Neighborhood Development Office, Suite 532-I (5th Floor City-County Building), 400 Main St. Printed copies may also be requested by contacting Wendy Rainey at 865-215-2865.
Residents are encouraged to submit comments on the draft report no later than Sept. 24, 2026. Comments may be emailed to Linda Rust at lr...@knoxvilletn.gov or mailed to:
Linda Rust, City of Knoxville Housing and Neighborhood Development Department, P.O. Box 1631, Knoxville, TN 37901.
The City of Knoxville is committed to ensuring meaningful access to its programs, services, and activities. Individuals needing disability accommodations should contact ADA Coordinator Betsy Cunningham at 865-215-3100 or A...@knoxvilletn.gov at least three business days before the close of the public comment period.
Those requesting language translation services should contact the Human Resources Department at tit...@knoxvilletn.gov or 865-215-3100 at least two days before the close of the comment period. For the best opportunity to review and comment on the report, residents needing accommodations or translation services are encouraged to make their requests as soon as possible after the draft becomes available.
7. Better Building Board and Public Officer Hearings Scheduled for September
The City of Knoxville's Better Building Board (BBB) will meet on Thursday, Sept. 24, at 3:30 p.m. in the Small Assembly Room of the City County Building. The accompanying Public Officer Hearing (POH) is scheduled for Friday, Sept. 25, at 9:30 a.m., also in the Small Assembly Room.
The Better Building Board plays an important role in the City's efforts to address unsafe and deteriorated structures. The board hears appeals from property owners who wish to challenge orders issued by the Public Officer regarding buildings determined to be unfit or dangerous. After reviewing a case, the board may uphold, modify, or overturn the Public Officer's order.
Public Officer Hearings are held to review properties that have been cited by Neighborhood Codes Enforcement. Following a hearing, property owners may be directed to repair, secure, improve, vacate, or demolish unsafe structures. If owners fail to comply, the City may undertake the required work and recover associated costs.
The September meetings provide an opportunity for property owners, neighborhood stakeholders, and interested residents to observe the City's property standards and code enforcement process in action. Cases heard by both bodies can have significant impacts on neighborhood safety, redevelopment efforts, and the preservation of Knoxville's housing stock.
Residents seeking additional information about attending or participating in a hearing may contact the City's Codes Enforcement Office at 865-215-2119 or via email at codesenf...@knoxvilletn.gov. Current agendas and hearing materials are available through the City of Knoxville's Better Building Board and Public Officer Hearings webpage.
The City of Knoxville ensures meaningful access to City programs, services, and activities to comply with Civil Rights Title VI and ADA Title II laws and reasonably provides translation, interpretation, modifications, accommodations, alternative formats, auxiliary aids and services.
To request language translation services, contact the Human Resources Department at Tit...@KnoxvilleTN.gov or 865-215-3100. For disability accommodations, contact the Human Resources Department at A...@KnoxvilleTN.gov or 865-215-3100 at least 72 hours prior to the event.
8. What’s Next Knoxville? Fall Meetings Continue
The City of Knoxville is updating their Comprehensive Plan and wants YOU to help shape Knoxville’s future.
During the first round of engagement, staff attended more than 110 events and engaged over 6,000 people to find out what residents love about Knoxville, what they want to retain, and what they think should change.
This fall, the project team is hosting another series of input sessions to ask how to prioritize what they heard while responding to future trends and challenges. They will present a draft vision statement and goals, along with different options for Knoxville's future. Anyone interested in weighing in can drop by at your convenience.
Meetings are scheduled as follows:
- Monday, Sep. 21, 5:30-7:30 p.m., Norwood Elementary Library, 1909 Merchants Dr.
- Tuesday, Sep. 22, 5:30-7:30 p.m., Whittle Springs Middle Cafeteria, 2700 White Oak Ln.
- Wednesday, Sep. 23, 4:30-6:30 p.m., Urban Wilderness Gateway Park, 1515 Tilson St.
- Wednesday, Sep. 30:
- 12 noon –2 p.m., East Tennessee History Center, 601 S. Gay St.
- 5:30-7:30 p.m., Bearden Middle Cafeteria, 1000 Francis Rd.
- Thursday, Oct. 1, 5:30-7:30 p.m., Dr. E.V. Davidson Community Center Gym, 3124 Wilson Ave.
For more, visit whatsnextknoxville.com/events
9. KKB East Knox Clean Up Coming Up Sept. 26
Keep Knoxville Beautiful is hosting their sixth annual East Knoxville Community Clean up on Saturday, Sept. 26, from 9 a.m.-12 noon at the Ashley Nicole Dream Playground, 620 Winona St.
Folks can arrive at the park to get supplies and then disperse to clean up area roads, creeks, and parks. Ijams Nature Center will be partnering to remove invasive species from Dr. Walter Hardy Park.
Participants of any age are welcome. There are several volunteer options available. Check out their website to see what works best for you and/or your group, and then pre-register.
10. Young Williams Organizes Fundraising Competition for Both UTs
Young-Williams Animal Center will host a cross-city fundraising competition tied to the University of Tennessee Volunteers vs. University of Texas Longhorns football game in September. The tailgate-style event will feature adoptable pets, food, games, and a live broadcast of the game.
Young-Williams Animal Center in Knoxville and Austin Humane Society in Austin, Texas, will compete to see which shelter can raise the most donations by the end of the game, while raising money to help homeless pets in the communities.
The event will be held on Saturday, Sept. 26, from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. at Young-Williams Animal Center, located at 3201 Division St. A simultaneous event is expected to take place at Austin Humane Society. The Longhorns will play at Neyland Stadium for the first time in program history in an SEC battle of the UTs with kickoff set for 12 p.m.
The fundraising competition will launch Monday, Sept. 21, with a live goal meter on the Young-Williams Animal Center website. The campaign goal is $5,000, with supporters encouraged to rally behind their team and shelter throughout the week and on game day. Young-Williams will also share fundraising updates from Austin Humane Society leading up to the game.
To learn more about the event or to donate, visit www.young-williams.org.
11. Knoxville Botanical Gardens Hosts Several Fall Events
Join Knoxville Botanical Garden for an array of fun fall events! First up is the Green Thumb Gala on Sept. 27, followed by their Family Garden Day Oct. 18, and their Holiday Open House Nov. 13.
Their Green Thumb Gala is their largest fundraising event, where guests gather under the tent on the Great Lawn to celebrate community and important success in raising vital support for the garden. The theme this year is “In Full Bloom”, a testament to their dedication to grow this community asset. There is a cocktail hour, silent auction, dinner, live entertainment, and more!
Family Garden Day is a free community event that invites families to connect with nature. Enjoy live music from local musicians, celebrate neighborhoods, browse their fall plant sale, and explore the garden!
For more information, tickets, and events, visit The Knoxville Botanical Garden and Arboretum Website or call 865-862-8717.
12. Bike Walk Knoxville Offers Friendly Driver Classes
Bike Walk Knoxville is organizing opportunities to share the Bicycle/Pedestrian Friendly Driver program for neighborhood organizations! This free class covers everything drivers need to know about sharing the road safely with cyclists and pedestrians and is perfect for drivers of all ages. This is especially important for teens and new drivers who would benefit from receiving this important education alongside their parents and neighbors!
Bike Walk Knoxville will provide all class materials, qualified instructors, marketing materials to promote the class to your neighborhood, and all at no cost to you or your group.
They would ask neighborhood groups to host the class, schedule a date and time for the 1 ½ hour class, coordinate a space with a screen, and help spread the word.
To learn more about the program or set up a class in your community, reach out to Bike Walk Knoxville Advocacy Director, Zoe Scott, at zoe....@bikewalktn.org!
13. TDEC Offers Multifamily Housing EV Charging Rebates
The Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC) announced an opportunity to improve access to electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure for residents of multifamily housing. This will make $650,000 available for the installation of Level 2 EV charging infrastructure at multifamily residential properties.
This incentive provided by the State offers more support for the adoption of electric vehicles as well as improving health outcomes for the Knoxville community. If you live in an HOA, you can bring this to your board; if you live in an apartment complex, you can bring this opportunity to the management.
Applicants eligible for the rebate program include owners, authorized property managers, homeowner associations and authorized lessees of multifamily housing properties with a minimum of four units in Tennessee.
Applicants may apply for rebates for up to 10 charging plugs per site.
Qualifying projects are subject to two funding caps:
- 60% of total eligible project costs, up to $10,000 per charging plug, for projects located at housing developments that meet low-income housing eligibility criteria or are located in significantly burdened census tracts.
- 60% of total eligible project costs, up to $6,000 per charging plug, for all other developments.
Prospective applicants are encouraged to submit a reservation request for each proposed project location.
Reservation requests and rebate applications will be accepted on a rolling basis until funds are exhausted.
Additional information on eligibility criteria, reservation requests and rebate applications can be found on the Office of Energy Programs' Multifamily Housing Rebate Program webpage.
- Arts & Culture Alliance (There’s More to Knoxville)
- Arts & Fine Crafts Center Classes (City of Knoxville)
- City of Knoxville General Calendar
- Parks and Rec Community Programming
The City of Knoxville requires a permit to operate a short-term rental property. Details and a list of short-term rental permits are located on the City’s website here.
About This Newsletter
** This Advisory is produced on most Tuesdays of the year.
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** Deadline for news & calendar items: 5 p.m. Mondays
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** See past issues at our Website: http://www.knoxvilletn.gov/neighborhoods
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Debbie Helsley
Newsletter (PDF version): https://bit.ly/NeighborlyNotice2026-09-22
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1. Deadline Extended for NAC Applications
2. Fairmont-Emoriland Hosted Annual Ice Cream Social
3. What Do You Want to See on Hill Ave?
4. City Partners with SKNBC for National Night Out
5. Is Your Neighborhood Participating in National Night Out?
6. The Annual Wiffleball Tournament is BACK Oct. 31
7. City Hosts Community Meeting for Victor Ashe Park
8. Chilhowee Park Meeting Location Changed
9. KFD Hosts Evening on Market Square
10. What's Next Knoxville? Start Fall Input Sessions
11. BBB Cancelled; POH Meets As Scheduled
12. Learn How to Respond With CERT When Disaster Strikes
13. KKB East Knox Clean Up This Weekend
14. Waste Connection to Update Residential Routes and Schedules
15. Knoxville Neighborhoods Calendar (click link for online calendar)
1. Deadline Extended for NAC Applications
The deadline to apply for a seat on the Neighborhood Advisory Council (NAC) has been extended to Friday, Sept. 25, by 4:30 p.m. If you want to learn about City systems, give input to the Office of Neighborhood Empowerment, and share community ideas with City initiatives, we would love to hear from you. Terms for these applications will run from Jan. 2027 through Dec. 2029.
The NAC brings together neighborhood leaders from across Knoxville to learn about City processes, provide feedback on policies and programs, advise the Office of Neighborhood Empowerment, and serve as a voice for residents on issues affecting neighborhoods citywide.
Current openings include:
- Seat 1-A (currently vacant)
- Seat 2-B (Alanna McKissack - term limited)
- Seat 4-B (Brent Waugh – term limited)
- Seat 5-A (Philip Hipps – term limited)
- Seat 6-A (Tiara-Lady Wilson)
- At-Large Seat C (Erin Hatfield)
Some current members are eligible to reapply, so not all open seats will necessarily be filled by new appointees.
This Council meets on the second Wednesday of each month, except for July and December. Members are appointed by the Mayor, confirmed by City Council, and serve three-year terms.
For more information about how to recommend someone to NAC or to apply for a seat, please visit the City’s website or contact Debbie Sharp at dsh...@knoxvilletn.gov.
2. Fairmont-Emoriland Neighborhood Association Hosted Annual Ice Cream Social
Residents gathered at Arlington Garden on Sunday, Sept. 20, for the Fairmont-Emoriland Neighborhood Association's (FENA) annual Ice Cream Social. The event took place from 2-4 p.m. at the neighborhood green space located at the corner of Emoriland Boulevard and Broadway, bringing neighbors together for an afternoon of conversation, games, and community connection.
Community members enjoyed ice cream and cookies while spending a pleasant afternoon outdoors with friends and neighbors. From children's games and activities to casual conversations among residents, the event offered something for everyone and highlighted the strong sense of community in the neighborhood.
Neighborhood gatherings such as FENA's Ice Cream Social provide residents with an opportunity to meet new neighbors, reconnect with longtime friends, and strengthen community ties. The annual event has become a tradition for many in the Fairmont-Emoriland neighborhood and serves as a reminder of the important role neighborhood organizations play in building connections among residents.
The event was organized by the Fairmont-Emoriland Neighborhood Association (FENA), which works to keep residents informed and engaged in neighborhood activities throughout the year. Residents interested in learning more about the organization can follow FENA on Facebook at @FairmontEmorilandNA or contact the association by email at fenaneig...@gmail.com to join its neighborhood email list.
If your neighborhood would like your event listed in the Neighborly Notice, either before to get a lot of folks to your community yard sale, or afterward to share ideas of what other neighborhoods are doing, we would love to hear about your events. Share your info with Debbie Sharp at dsh...@knoxvilletn.gov.
3. What Do You Want to See on Hill Ave?
Knoxville’s Community Development Corporation (KCDC) and the City of Knoxville want to hear from you. Share your experiences, priorities, and ideas to help guide the future of East Hill Avenue, where the old Police Station used to be.
There was a community meeting last week; however, if you couldn’t attend, it is not too late to share your input. There is a Hill Avenue Community Survey that is open now through Friday, Oct. 2.
4. City Partners with SKNBC for National Night Out
This year, the City of Knoxville is partnering with the South Knoxville Neighborhood & Business Coalition for the National Night Out Kick Off event on Tuesday, Oct. 6, from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at the Urban Wilderness Gateway Park, 1515 Tilson Rd.
The City is bringing Knoxville Police Department's Bomb Robot, Motorcycle officers, Knoxville Fire Department's Fire Safety House, a fire truck for children to explore, Public Services' Touch a Truck, and so much more!
South Knoxville Neighborhood & Business Coalition has secured South Knoxville’s own Chef Mo’s Cafe to be on hand to provide food for the evening, with gluten-free and vegan options also available. They also have a variety of community organizations on hand to share information about their programs and services and connect residents with resources available in South Knoxville and throughout the community.
As part of National Night Out, they would also like to show appreciation for the police officers, firefighters, and first responders who serve the community every day. Community members are invited to bring donations of new stuffed animals that the first responders can give to children they encounter at emergency scenes. Donations of sealed, quick, healthy snacks, gum, and mints are also always appreciated by our first responders while they’re on duty.
Every donation—large or small—is a simple way to say thank you to those who are there for our community when we need them most.National Night Out is a great opportunity for neighbors to come together, meet the people who serve our community, learn more about local resources, and enjoy an evening of food, fellowship, and fun.
National Night Out is an annual community building campaign that promotes police, community partnerships, and neighborhood camaraderie to make our neighborhoods safer, more caring places to live. In Knoxville, we like to recognize all our first responders. That includes police, fire, public service, etc. National Night Out has been going strong since 1984; help us keep it going by joining in the celebration!
5. Is Your Neighborhood Participating in National Night Out?
Several neighborhood groups are starting to register as celebrating National Night Out. So far, we have Northwest Hills Safety Community Group, Western Heights Neighborhood Organization, Old North Knoxville, Inc., and Williams Creek Community Association is partnering with Lennon-Seney United Methodist Church. Will your neighborhood group be celebrating?
Knoxville is celebrating National Night Out on Tuesday, Oct. 6, and neighborhoods across the city are planning to participate. Join communities across the city in hosting block parties, cookouts, and other events that promote safety and strengthen police-community partnerships.
If your neighborhood plans to participate, please submit your event information to Debbie Sharp at dsh...@knoxvilletn.gov and KPD at kpdwe...@knoxvilletn.gov no later than 4:30 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 1.
Please include the following information in your email:
- Neighborhood name
- Contact name
- Contact email
- Contact phone number
- Day of the celebration
- Time
- Event location (address)
- Planned activities (cookout, games, demonstrations, etc.)
National Night Out is an annual community-building campaign that promotes police-community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie, helping make our neighborhoods safer and more connected places to live.
The City of Knoxville is partnering with South Knoxville Neighborhood & Business Coalition for a National Night Out Kickoff Event, also scheduled for Tuesday, Oct. 6. See the article above for more details. If your neighborhood is not planning a celebration this year, you are welcome to join the Kickoff Event.
6. The Annual Wiffleball Tournament is BACK Oct. 31!
The Office of Neighborhood Empowerment’s (ONE) Ninth Annual Wiffleball tournament will be hosted on Saturday, Oct. 31, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. This year’s tournament will be in Halloween spirit with a costume contest! Gather your neighbors and come up with some fun ideas. Get creative with your team theme! You might all show up in dinosaur costumes, channel the Addams Family with safety vests, or put a unique spin on things by dressing as different versions of the same character.
If you and your neighborhood want to compete this year, please fill out this form for registration, or email sbra...@knoxvilletn.gov with the following information:
- Neighborhood
- Neighborhood contact name
- Neighborhood contact phone number
- Neighborhood contact email
- Team T-shirt color
- Creative Team Name
Not sure yet? No worries! Keep an eye out in the coming weeks for more information and deadlines! We can’t wait to see what you come up with. Let’s have some fun!
7. City Hosts Community Meeting for Victor Ashe Park
The City’s Parks & Recreation and Public Service Departments invite you to attend a meeting at Victor Ashe Park to discuss proposed ecological improvements to a 17-acre area that is currently managed as turf grass on Tuesday, Sept. 22, at 5 p.m. at the Victor Ashe Park large pavilion by the restrooms and playground.
After a brief presentation, the group will walk to the proposed restoration site, so wear comfortable shoes.
What is being proposed? Victor Ashe Park has large expanses of turf grass, heavily managed through routine mowing during the growing season. The City of Knoxville is proposing to convert a select 17-acre area to native grass and tree plantings as a practical way to create more functional, ecologically valuable public spaces in Knoxville.
Native landscapes can provide important habitat for pollinators, birds, and other wildlife while increasing plant diversity and improving the overall resilience of the landscape. Compared with traditional turf, native grass and wildflower areas typically require less frequent mowing and fewer long-term maintenance inputs, which can help reduce labor demands and save money over time. Restoration may also include planting or retaining scattered trees to create woodland oak savanna conditions that support a wider range of native species and add structure, shade, and visual interest to the landscape.
Existing cross-country trails and disc golf fairways will be maintained and continue to be open for recreational use.
Additional Information can be found here: Ecological Restoration - City of Knoxville. City staff look forward to seeing you there!
The City of Knoxville ensures meaningful access to City programs, services, and activities to comply with Civil Rights Title VI and ADA Title II laws and reasonably provides translation, interpretation, modifications, accommodations, alternative formats, auxiliary aids and services.
To request language translation services, contact the Human Resources Department at Tit...@KnoxvilleTN.gov or 865-215-3100. For disability accommodations, contact the Human Resources Department at A...@KnoxvilleTN.gov or 865-215-3100 at least 72 hours prior to the event.
8. Chilhowee Park Meeting Location Changed
The Chilhowee Park Advisory Group will be having meeting #5 (and the last for the year) - Creating a New Vision for Possibilities, on Tuesday, Sept. 22, from 5:30-7:30 p.m., and there is a location change.
Due to the Tennessee Valley Fair at Chilhowee Park, the meeting will be held at Dr. E.V. Davidson Community Center, 3124 Wilson Ave.At the meeting the group will:
- Review the program findings overlaid with the Love’s Creek Hydrology Stormwater Master Plan along with Community engagement results. See the CPAG website to review the latest workshop report!
- Revisit the Guiding Principles in lieu of past engagement meetings to set a new framework to guide future visioning of Chilhowee Park
- Discuss where we are in the planning stages for the park and Next Steps beyond this set of CPAG meetings.
Please attend if you are able, invite your friends and neighbors to hear the latest updates AND to help set the stage for the Next Steps in planning efforts.
9. KFD Hosts Evening on Market Square
The Knoxville Fire Department will be hosting their Evening on Market Square on Friday, Oct. 2, from 6-8 p.m.
You will be able to learn fire prevention tips, visit with firefighters, explore a firetruck, learn about a career in firefighting, you will be able to roast marshmallows, and so much more at this family friendly event. All are welcome to join!
10. What's Next Knoxville? Start Fall Input Sessions
What's Next Knoxville has started their fall input sessions! They will present a draft vision statement and goals, along with different options for Knoxville's future. Drop by any of the events at your convenience to share your priorities, and you will be entered to win a $50 Visa gift card just for providing feedback!
There will be no formal presentation, and residents may attend at any time during the scheduled session hours. Upcoming sessions are:
- Tuesday, Sept. 22, 5:30-7:30 p.m., Whittle Springs Middle School
- Wednesday, Sept. 23, 4:30-6:30 p.m., Urban Wilderness Gateway Park
- Wednesday, Sept. 30, noon-2 p.m., East Tennessee History Center
- Wednesday, Sept. 30, 5:30-7:30 p.m., Bearden Middle School
- Thursday, Oct. 1, 5:30-7:30 p.m., Dr. E.V. Davidson Community Center
Residents who cannot attend an in-person session will be able to participate online through the What's Next Knoxville website.
These drop-in sessions will give residents an opportunity to review and provide feedback on a draft vision statement, community goals, and future planning options that will help guide Knoxville's growth and investment priorities over the coming decades.
The input sessions are part of the City's ongoing update to Knoxville's Comprehensive Plan, a long-range policy document developed by the City of Knoxville and Knoxville-Knox County Planning. The plan will help guide decisions related to land use, transportation, and investment priorities over the next 25 years.
Earlier this year, planners gathered public input from residents and stakeholders, then shared preliminary findings during summer outreach efforts. This fall, the sessions are designed to give the community an opportunity to review the draft vision and goals developed from that feedback and help refine the plan before it moves forward.
For more information and participation opportunities, visit What's Next Knoxville.
11. BBB Cancelled; POH Meets As Scheduled
The City of Knoxville's Better Building Board (BBB) meeting scheduled for Thursday, Sept. 24, at 3:30 p.m. has been cancelled as there is no business for the board this month. The Public Officer Hearing (POH) scheduled for Friday, Sept. 25, at 9:30 a.m., is still meeting as scheduled in the Small Assembly Room.
From abandoned structures to properties in need of significant repairs, these meetings play an important role in maintaining neighborhood safety and preserving the quality of Knoxville's housing stock.
The Better Building Board serves as an appeals body for property owners who wish to challenge decisions issued by the Public Officer regarding buildings deemed unsafe, unfit for occupancy, or otherwise dangerous. After reviewing testimony and evidence, the board may uphold, modify, or overturn those orders.
The Public Officer Hearing focuses on properties cited by Neighborhood Codes Enforcement for code violations and unsafe conditions. Depending on the circumstances, property owners may be ordered to repair, secure, improve, vacate, or demolish a structure. When required corrective actions are not completed, the City may step in to perform the work and seek reimbursement of associated costs.
For residents interested in neighborhood revitalization, code enforcement, or the future of specific properties in their community, these meetings offer a firsthand look at how the City addresses problem structures and works to protect public health and safety. Decisions made during these hearings can influence redevelopment opportunities, neighborhood appearance, and the long-term stability of surrounding properties.
Residents seeking additional information about attending or participating in a hearing may contact the City's Codes Enforcement Office at 865-215-2119 or via email at codesenf...@knoxvilletn.gov. Current agendas and hearing materials are available through the City of Knoxville's Better Building Board and Public Officer Hearings webpage.
The City of Knoxville ensures meaningful access to City programs, services, and activities to comply with Civil Rights Title VI and ADA Title II laws and reasonably provides translation, interpretation, modifications, accommodations, alternative formats, auxiliary aids and services.
To request language translation services, contact the Human Resources Department at Tit...@KnoxvilleTN.gov or 865-215-3100. For disability accommodations, contact the Human Resources Department at A...@KnoxvilleTN.gov or 865-215-3100 at least 72 hours prior to the event.
12. Learn How to Respond with CERT When Disaster Strikes
Knoxville-Knox County Emergency Management Agency (KEMA) is offering free Community Emergency Response Training (CERT) for residents interested in learning how to prepare for disasters and respond safely in the immediate aftermath of emergencies.
Classes are held in person from 6:30 - 9 p.m. on the first Tuesday of each month, with the next meeting scheduled for Tuesday, Oct. 6. The location of classes varies each month, held at different response facilities around Knox County, so you can see spaces where responders work. October's training will focus on how to triage an emergency situation.
Residents who would like to participate should complete the interest form through Volunteer East Tennessee to receive information about class locations and upcoming sessions.
The Knox County CERT program teaches participants about hazards that could affect our community, how to prepare for emergencies, and how to assist family members, neighbors, and coworkers before professional responders arrive. The training is part of a nationally supported CERT initiative and is coordinated by KEMA in partnership with local emergency response agencies.
The program includes 10 monthly sessions, each covering a different topic. Participants who attend all 10 sessions are eligible to take part in a disaster simulation exercise and receive a CERT certificate and patch. Residents who cannot attend every session are still encouraged to participate in as many classes as possible.
Training topics focus on personal preparedness, understanding local hazards, and learning how emergency response systems operate in Knox County. Participants also learn practical skills that can help them respond safely during disasters while connecting with local organizations that provide volunteer opportunities during emergencies.
Knox County does not maintain an active Community Emergency Response Team. Instead, the program emphasizes preparedness education and helps connect trained residents with existing volunteer organizations that assist during emergencies and disaster response efforts.
Residents interested in joining the program or learning more can complete the interest list application through Volunteer East Tennessee. Questions about the program may be directed to Sarah DeLozier through KEMA at 865-215-1166 or sdel...@knoxvilletn.gov.
13. KKB East Knox Clean Up This Weekend
This Saturday, Sept. 26, Keep Knoxville Beautiful is hosting their sixth annual East Knoxville Community Clean up from 9 a.m.- noon at the Ashley Nicole Dream Playground, 620 Winona St.
Folks can arrive at the park to get supplies and then disperse to clean up roads, creeks, and parks in the area. Ijams Nature Center will be partnering to remove invasive species from Dr. Walter Hardy Park. It is recommended to wear long pants, close-toed shoes, and to bring water.
Participants of any age are welcome. There are several volunteer options available; you can choose to clean up Caswell Park, First Creek, or to help Ijams out with invasive species removal. Check out their website to pre-register and for more information on roles.
14. Waste Connection to Update Residential Routes and Schedules
Waste Connections will be implementing residential routes and schedule updates beginning October 5, to better align trash and recycling collection days and improve service efficiency. Customers affected by the changes will receive advance notifications by mail and through the Waste Connections mobile app.
Waste Connections encourages customers to download the Waste Connections app and sign up for notifications to receive important service updates and reminders. Additionally, after October 5, customers may use the Service Day Lookup Tool at KnoxvilleTN.gov/ServiceAndSort to view their new service day.
During the transition period, Waste Connections will provide additional support for customers adjusting to their new collection schedules and will respond to reported missed collections related to the route changes.
Backdoor customers will not be affected by this reroute.
- Arts & Culture Alliance (There’s More to Knoxville)
- Arts & Fine Crafts Center Classes (City of Knoxville)
- City of Knoxville General Calendar
- Parks and Rec Community Programming
The City of Knoxville requires a permit to operate a short-term rental property. Details and a list of short-term rental permits are located on the City’s website here.
About This Newsletter
** This Advisory is produced on most Tuesdays of the year.
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** May be copied and forwarded via neighborhood e-mail lists and newsletters.
** See past issues at our Website: http://www.knoxvilletn.gov/neighborhoods
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