Public Meeting Scheduled for Fair Housing Equity Plan Review

Knoxville announces public meeting for feedback on draft Fair Housing Equity Plan.

On August 1, 2024, the City of Knoxville released its draft Fair Housing Equity Plan for a 30-day public comment period. Residents are invited to attend a public meeting on Wednesday, August 7, from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. at Cansler YMCA, located at 616 Jessamine Street, to ask questions about the plan and provide their input.

For those unable to attend in person, a virtual meeting option will be available via Zoom. The Zoom link will be posted on KnoxvilleTN.gov/FairHousing by noon on August 7.

The City collaborated with consultants from Community Solutions Collaborative, LLC to develop the report and plan. The plan is based on community feedback gathered during extensive interviews and public meetings held in March and April 2024. It outlines the fair housing history, current climate, and infrastructure in Knoxville and offers recommendations for enhancing equity and opportunity.

Residents can also provide feedback via email to Fair [email protected] or to Linda Rust at [email protected], or by mail at P.O. Box 1630, Knoxville, TN 37902. Comments will be accepted through August 31, 2024, and will be incorporated into the final version of the plan, which will be submitted to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.

The City of Knoxville is committed to ensuring meaningful access to its programs, services, and activities, in compliance with Civil Rights Title VI and ADA Title II laws. The City provides translation, interpretation, modifications, accommodations, alternative formats, auxiliary aids, and services as needed.

For language translation services, contact the City’s Human Resources Department at [email protected] or 865-215-3100. For disability accommodations, reach out to City ADA Coordinator Stephanie Brewer Cook at [email protected] or 865-215-2034.

Source: Read Original Release

Mayor O’Connell Revives Disability Advisory Committee

Mayor Freddie O’Connell has reinstated the Mayor’s Advisory Committee for People with Disabilities through Executive Order 52, aiming to enhance self-determination and independence for individuals with disabilities. Darren Jernigan will serve as the liaison, working on accessibility improvements and advocating for inclusive policies. Concurrently, July has been proclaimed as National Disability Pride Month in Nashville, marking the 34th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act.