Sheriff’s Office Politics

Members of the Merit System Board of Directors at their meeting on Aug. 16, 2023.

The Merit System Board votes to let uniformed officers run for office while serving — but holds off on politicking by board members.

‘We’re All Afraid’

Knox County High School students Dain Shelton, Gabriela Sánchez Benítez, Caroline Scoonover and Anand Patel.

A group of high school students spent three months learning about County Commission. Now they want commissioners’ support in pushing for gun safety.

‘Leap of Faith’

Two maps side by side of the proposed Belltown development

Despite some uncertainties, County Commission signs off on the Belltown development, which will bring nearly 1,100 homes to North Knox County.

Swing-Set Economics

Playground with plastic slides

Knox County leaves it up to local communities to fund school playgrounds, with the result that some of the poorest areas have the worst equipment.

Axle Logistics to Expand

Tres Markham, Drew Johnson, Ali Fraley, Axle Logistics

The rapidly growing North Knoxville firm looks to add workers and build a second facility on Central Street with the help of a county tax incentive.

An Evolving Mission

classroom with empty desks

For the second time in three years, the Knox Education Foundation is looking for a CEO — and some updating of its vision.

Following the Money

Money

A handful of races on the Aug. 4 ballot have attracted unprecedented levels of funding. Where has it come from — and what are candidates spending it on?

Appeals Process Decision Delayed

Mayor Glenn Jacobs and public hearing speakers

As public opposition mounts, commissioners kick final approval of a revised ordinance restricting the Board of Zoning Appeals’ authority to next month.

Meriting Attention

Police cruiser with lights on

County Commission expands and revamps the Merit System Council, which protects Sheriff’s Office employees from political retribution.