The Knoxville City Council held an over hour long conversation regarding a proposed camping ordinance Monday night and the agenda item was tabled.

The proposed ordinance presented by Police Chief Aaron Fuller was to regulate and enforce penalties for unlawful camping within the city. The proposed ordinance stated that the purpose is to regulate camping within the city limits to promote the health, safety, and general welfare of citizens residing in Knoxville. The proposed ordinance was not directly related to homelessness but regardless the council and meeting attendees held a lengthy discussion in which they talked about if this ordinance would be a productive solution to homelessness in the community. The council ultimately voted to table the discussion as they will seek additional input from organizations within the community on solutions to the issue.

Also at the meeting the council held a public hearing and approved a bid for the Larson Street Pump Project, approved funding for the continuation of the Habitat for Humanity of Marion County Critical Home Repair Program, approved acceptance of an award for a COPS hiring program, and approved 2024 TIF certification.