Larry Eaton

The Board of Directors meeting addressed planning for the 2026 Chinzei Gakuin student visit, including scheduling a trip to Dollywood, organizing local tours, and arranging catering. Additionally, the Board selected dates for a lecture series from the Asian Culture Center, covering sushi making, bento box making, and a Japanese tea ceremony. The meeting also included a discussion regarding filling an industry vacancy with potential candidates from Denso or Mayfield Dairy.

The council addressed several communications, including presentations regarding the Athens City Middle School, the McMinn Warming Center, and the presentation of a VIVID award. The consent agenda included the purchase of a replacement vehicle for the Parks & Recreation Department, the awarding of bids for the demolition of residential structures, approval of paving for the Heritage Park parking lot, and the authorization of various grant applications for park extensions, highway safety initiatives, and health-related trail and signage projects. New business involved the approval of a resolution for a rescue squad grant and the rescission of a prior motion regarding mediation with a local citizen.

The board processed a request for the relinquishment of a beer permit for the business Pick N Pay. Additionally, the board approved the issuance of a new off-premises beer permit to Hiwassee Market, LLC for the same establishment.

The board discussed planning for the upcoming 2026 Chinzei Gakuin visit, including scheduling and transportation arrangements, and approved funding for the Chinzei Gakuin-Tennessee Wesleyan Language and Culture Program for up to $5,000. Additionally, the board reviewed and approved participation in the Asian Culture Center lecture series at the Jade sponsorship level for $2,500.

The council addressed several administrative and operational items, including the approval of grant applications for historical and infrastructure projects, the appointment of a new City Judge, and fee schedule updates for park facilities. Key decisions included rejecting all bids for the Regional Park House renovation in favor of an alternate relocation plan and authorizing the sale of municipal property at 2201 Decatur Pike. Additionally, the council made various appointments to the Council Advisory Committee, Planning Commission, and Housing Authority, and discussed legal mediation procedures.