Federal COVID-19 funds may go to housing, outreach in city
By Mike Steely
Senior Writer
steelym@knoxfocus.com
When the city council meets Tuesday it will be asked to approve four resolutions giving federal money in response to the COVID-19 pandemic to various projects. The Community Action may get $120,000 for rapid re-housing services and $100,000 to deal with emergency services and shelter.
YWCA of Knoxville and the Tennessee Valley may receive $50,000 from the federal funds for their emergency shelter and services and Volunteer Ministry Center may get $262,330 in funding its Street Outreach program.
The council will also be asked to approve the lease of 18,000 square feet in the new Public Safety Complex at the former St. Mary’s/Tennova Hospital on Huron Avenue. The 30-year agreement is with Knoxville/Knox County E-911 for will house equipment and other services.
Real Talk organization may get $2,300 from Community Empowerment funds to continue its efforts for at-risk youth. The Mechanicsville Community Association may receive $4,500 to purchase new sports equipment.
An agreement with the Public Building Authority for managing the Transit Center and the KAT Magnolia facility is on the agenda. The PBA may also get an additional agreement, with the Industrial Development Board, for the Downtown Cinema Inc.
The PBA may also be authorized to operate the Police Department. The council may also review an agreement with the Knoxville Convention Center and Visitors Bureau for the bureau to reconcile $396,130 in excess payments made to the center during the pandemic.
The Knox Education Foundation may get $100,000 in Community Agency Grant funds to support internet access for local school students.
The Engineering Department is asking for authority to acquire property at 2942 Fair Drive, by negotiation or condemnation, not to exceed $65,000.
Two different sidewalk projects may be funded, one with Design and Construction Services Inc. for On-Call replacement adding $100,000 to the contract. The same company may get a Phase II agreement for sidewalks not to exceed $700,000.
