Knoxville Sales Tax Hike and 2025 City Council Election Outcomes
The Knoxville city elections were held on November 4, 2023, allowing residents to choose new city council representatives and vote on a proposed sales tax increase. The election featured competitive races for five city council seats along with a significant measure regarding local taxation.
Knoxville Sales Tax Increase Decision
One of the key issues on the ballot was the proposal to raise the local option sales tax from 2.25% to 2.75%. The additional revenue was earmarked for various city improvements, including affordable housing, greenways, street paving, and sidewalks. Despite the advocacy for the increase, the proposal was ultimately rejected.
Sales Tax Increase Results
- For the increase: 9,546 votes
- Against the increase: 15,284 votes
2025 City Council Election Outcomes
The election also included crucial races for the Knoxville City Council, where candidates competed vigorously across six districts. Here are the results from the council elections:
| District | Candidate | Votes |
|---|---|---|
| District 1 | Karyn Adams | 1,933 |
| Becky Jones | 948 | |
| District 2 | Nathan Honeycutt | 3,662 |
| Melody Watts | 2,289 | |
| District 3 | Doug Lloyd | 2,147 |
| Frank Ramey | 1,928 | |
| District 4 | Matthew DeBardelaben | 3,530 |
| Jeff Talman | 2,556 | |
| District 6 | Denzel Grant | 1,685 |
| Stan Johnson | 1,095 |
Overall, the election results reflect the community’s stance on fiscal policies and city leadership. As candidates take office, Knoxville continues to navigate the challenges of urban development and community needs.
