Neighbors for Knoxville Announces New Wave of Community Support for City Sales Tax Referendum
Neighbors for Knoxville today announced another wave of community members and organizations endorsing the City of Knoxville’s Sales Tax Referendum– a measure that will fund more sidewalks, affordable housing, safer streets, and improved parks across every part of the city.
If approved by voters on November 4, the referendum will provide roughly $47 million annually to fund the City’s Five-Year Neighborhood Investment Plan—accelerating projects that would otherwise take decades to complete.
Here’s what Knoxville neighbors and business leaders are saying:
“With rising costs, delaying essential projects only makes them more expensive. I think the neighborhood investment plan is smart for our community’s future.” –Shane Archer, small business owner
“I am voting for the sales tax because I think we need the items in the neighborhood investment plan, like affordable housing, greenways and sidewalks.” –Daniel Brown, former Mayor of Knoxville & City Council representative
“I am a veteran who served seven years in the U.S. Army. I am approved for a VA home loan but as a working class woman, there is nothing in my price range. The local sales tax referendum invests more in affordable housing, which helps put homeownership within reach for folks like me.” –Dana Moran, working families advocate
“When companies decide where to expand or entrepreneurs choose where to launch, they look for communities that invest in themselves. Housing, safe streets, vibrant parks and connected greenways aren’t just amenities. For companies, strong infrastructure is better for business. This referendum signals something important, that Knoxville is willing to invest in itself.” –Brandon Bruce, technology entrepreneur and investor
“I support the sales tax increase because it will increase funding to support more affordable housing for Knoxville.” –Alvin Nance, affordable housing advocate
“I’d like to see a Knoxville where families can afford to live, where kids can safely walk and bike and where neighborhoods are connected. This half cent tax can deliver that future.” –Finbarr Saunders, former Vice Mayor of Knoxville & City Council representative
“I am FOR the Neighborhood Investment Plan: safer paths for kids, vibrant parks and rec centers, affordable housing, and tourist spending fueling investment today, to secure our tomorrow.” –Nadim Jubran, entrepreneur
“I am voting for the sales tax because near to my heart are connecting our greenways and addressing homelessness. Join me and vote FOR the sales tax on November 4.” –Will Skelton, greenways & community advocate
“I support the sales tax referendum because it addresses real needs at the heart of Knoxville—our neighborhoods. With groceries excluded, it’s a win for all residents!” –Avice Reid, community advocate
“I am voting for the sales tax increase because the funds will allow the City to continue to provide quality parks, greenways and recreation programs in Knoxville!” –Joe Walsh, former director Parks & Rec City of Knoxville
“I support the sales tax increase to help pay for sidewalks so students and families can walk to school safely.” –Elizabeth Evola, West Hills Elementary & Bearden High mom
“This ballot item supports a community where kids can grow up safe, supported, and connected. A strong Knoxville starts with neighborhoods, where families can thrive.” –Justus Hayes, North Knoxville advocate
“The sales tax unlocks major benefits to keep Knoxville thriving! Visitors shoulder much of the cost for safer streets, improved parks, roads and greenways!” –Brent Waugh, neighborhood advocate
“I’ve seen first-hand the need for sidewalks and rec centers to keep children safe, and I am supporting the referendum to strengthen our neighborhoods.” –Amy Brace, student & neighborhood advocate
“I support the sales tax increase because we need to build more affordable housing. The funds will also help low income seniors stay in their homes with accessible entries and needed home repairs – in addition to many other housing needs facing our community.” –Dr. Bonnie Graham, retired FNP & affordable housing advocate
Previously announced supporters include Mark Mamantov, Ramsey Cohen, Maria Foran, Matthew Park, Kathrine Torbett and Legacy Parks Foundation.
Additional community groups FOR Knoxville include:
● YES! Knoxville
● Bike Walk Knoxville
● Sierra Club Harvey Broome Group
The sales tax referendum would increase Knoxville’s local sales tax option from 2.25% to 2.75%, matching nearby counties like Anderson, Blount, Sevier, Jefferson, Grainger, and Cocke– many of which have had the full rate in place for decades.
The proposal excludes essential items like groceries, gas, utilities, rent, prescriptions, and property taxes.
Funds from the referendum will support:
Affordable Housing: Creating 1,000 new homes for working families, seniors, and veterans.
Sidewalks & Safer Streets: Prioritizing routes near schools and traffic-calming projects in neighborhoods.
Parks & Community Facilities: Upgrading playgrounds, rec centers, and Fire Hall #15.
Greenways & Roads: Connecting neighborhoods with 8 new sections of greenways and repaving an additional 15 miles of city streets each year.
Additional details on the specific projects can be found here.
Early voting runs now through October 30, and Election Day is November 4.
