Development News for Bristol, Tennessee

Bristol Renews HOME Consortium Agreements, Maintaining Lead Entity Status

Resolution 26-64 was approved, confirming the renewal agreements with members of the Northeast Tennessee/Virginia HOME Consortium. This is a triennial requirement by HUD. The renewal certifies that participating jurisdictions wish to continue in the consortium, confirms Bristol as the lead entity, and allows Bristol to receive and administer HOME funds directly on behalf of other members, including Sullivan County, Washington County, Bluff City, Johnson City, Kingsport, and Bristol, Virginia. Renewal agreements from all participating jurisdictions have been received.

Rezoning for Planned Residential Development at 1808 King College Road Moves Forward

The council held a public hearing and first reading for an ordinance to amend the zoning map at 1808 King College Road, rezoning approximately 132.5 acres from R-1A and R-2 to PRD (Planned Residential District). The Planning Commission recommended approval. The developer, Ardent Development, proposes a layout with residential units and green spaces, with 20 acres around the existing home excluded from rezoning. Staff analysis covered transportation, stormwater, utilities, and waste services. Residents expressed concerns about traffic, density, and community impact. The second reading and vote on this ordinance (identified as 26-2) also occurred, with a favorable outcome.

Mayor Turner Appointed to Tri-Cities Airport Authority Board

The City Council formally approved Resolution 26-66, appointing Mayor Turner to the Tri-Cities Airport Authority Board. This vacancy arose due to the departure of City Manager Kelly Bourgeois. Councilwoman Mary Lee expressed appreciation for the airport's importance and encouraged its use to maintain flights.

Bristol City Council Adopts Policy for Accepting Partial Tax Payments in Settlement Agreements

The City Council considered Ordinance 26-8, which would allow the City to accept partial or prepayments of taxes under limited circumstances, specifically when entering into settlement agreements with taxpayers. This is in response to significant tax appeals, with one settlement potentially involving a refund of nearly $700,000 over 10 years. State legislation allows such agreements if the taxpayer forgoes future interest and penalties, and the city has a policy for accepting prepayments. The ordinance would authorize this policy for specific large settlements, not for all taxpayers, due to operational limitations. The council approved the ordinance.