April 15, 2026 - FY27 Budget Hearing

The Hamilton County, Tennessee FY27 Budget Hearing held on April 15, 2026, featured presentations from the Chattanooga Tourism Company and Hamilton County 911. The Tourism Company requested funding based on 85% of projected lodging tax collections, representing a 2.7% decrease from their previous request but a 13.7% increase from last year's allocation. They emphasized investments in sales and marketing, including a 51% increase in that area, to attract visitors from outside Chattanooga, supporting local economic growth and generating significant tax revenue. Discussions included efforts to negotiate a long-term funding agreement with the City of Chattanooga to share lodging tax revenues more equitably. The Hamilton County 911 presentation highlighted severe staffing shortages with vacancy rates of 25-30%, and proposed budget increases to improve telecommunicator salaries to be more competitive with local public safety positions. They also requested funding for five additional positions to support EMS radio dispatch. Both presentations underscored the importance of efficient use of taxpayer funds and strategic investments to support county services and economic development.