Council approves several contracts, guardrail work and housing redevelopment measures

During the consent and regular agenda, Knoxville City Council approved a set of contracts and program-authorizing resolutions. The mayor and clerk announced approval of an agreement with Asset Health (estimated $55,000 annually) to support the city's wellness program and an Employee Network Incorporated agreement (approx. $110,000 annually) for the employee assistance program covering city employees and retirees. Council also authorized two guardrail-replacement contracts (Roadway Solutions LLC and Tennessee Guardrail Incorporated), each for an annual amount not to exceed $75,000.

Separately, council approved a resolution to revise and enhance financial mechanisms for redeveloping abandoned, blighted, and vacant properties into affordable housing using proceeds from the city's Round 2 empowerment zone funding from HUD and potential future federal allocations. Motions to approve these items carried with no recorded opposition during the meeting.