Brian Baldwin

The Blount County, TN Animal Control meeting was convened to address a finding by animal control regarding a dog belonging to Katricia Hamilton, named Scar, which was deemed vicious. The animal control officer presented his findings, stating that the dog had been the subject of multiple calls for being at large and had attacked another dog on two separate occasions. Ms. Hamilton and her husband provided their testimony, stating that the dog was now confined in a six-foot fence and on a runner. Neighbors Dennis and Luanne Lovin, whose animals were attacked, shared their experiences and documentation, expressing their desire for the dog to remain appropriately contained to ensure neighborhood safety. The meeting included discussions on the dog's behavior, containment measures, and concerns from neighbors, culminating in the upholding of the viciousness finding by animal control.

The committee held a public hearing and a regular budget meeting. Public input was received regarding the fiscal year 2016-17 budget, with positive feedback on the efficiency of the budget preparation process. The committee discussed and approved adjustments for the highway department related to team grant reimbursement for work done during the February 2015 ice storm. They also discussed a higher reimbursement rate from the US Treasury for a key scab rebate. The committee addressed the tax levy resolution, setting the tax rate to fund the proposed fiscal year 2016-17 budget, with no change from the current year. Appropriations by count and by fund were set for each operating unit of County government.

The Blount County Board of Zoning Appeals meeting included discussions about a special exception request for a cellular telecommunications antenna located at 7927 Karns Road and Townsend. The applicant, Verizon Wireless, seeks to construct a 199-foot monopole tower with space for additional carriers. The need for the tower is driven by increased data and smartphone usage, with almost 80% of 911 calls now made from mobile phones. The proposed tower aims to improve capacity and throughput speeds in the Townsend area, which is currently experiencing congestion.

The meeting included reading the emergency evacuation procedures, setting the agenda, and a public hearing regarding a request for an on-premises beer permit for Blackberry Farm LLC. The board attorney presented the application, and the applicant provided information about the location and compliance with distance requirements from schools, churches, and registered addresses. The board approved the beer permit.

The meeting included discussions and actions on various items. A proclamation was presented to honor elected officials and department heads for a clean audit. Public input was received on agenda items. Appointments and confirmations were made, including those for the Financial Committee and Parks and Recreation Commission. New business included approval for the Highway Department's chemical spring breeze project and a resolution for a creek application for Parks and Recreation.