Blount County Commission Workshop | 07-09-26

The Blount County Commission held a workshop meeting on July 9, 2026, where significant procurement and budget discussions took place. Key agenda items included budget increases and resolutions related to infrastructure and public services, such as a $27,800 allocation for library plumbing repairs, a $4,027 state grant for health department operations, and a $465,375 appropriation of federal opioid funds for a substance use residential treatment facility. A major focus was on two high-profile budget resolutions: an $8 million agreement with the Industrial Development Board for the purchase of the Alcoa South Plant property and a $5 million agreement with the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) for right-of-way acquisition for the Pellissippi Parkway extension. The Alcoa South Plant purchase sparked extensive debate over procedural irregularities, zoning concerns, and the potential for data center development, with commissioners divided on whether to proceed or refer the matter back to the budget committee. Despite procedural objections, the resolution was forwarded to the full commission with a 12-3-1 vote. The Pellissippi Parkway extension funding resolution passed with an 11-5 vote amid public opposition and concerns about local taxpayer money being used for a state project. Other budget items, including a $2.15 million reappropriation for ongoing projects, were unanimously approved to move forward. The meeting also featured public input expressing strong opposition to the Pellissippi Parkway extension and concerns about fiscal responsibility and community impact.