Piper’s Platform for Change

Revitalizing our Neighborhoods

I firmly believe the Second District has the potential to be the most dynamic part of our county.

Neighborhoods like 4th and Gill, Old North Knoxville and Oakwood Lincoln Park are the gateway to our downtown renaissance and offer endless possibilities for growth and development within our urban core. Growth and development that will increase the number of home owners, increase jobs and preserve Knox County’s rich rural history.

As Chair of Knoxville’s Better Building Board, I see blighted and condemned properties take away from the character of our community. This is free money falling out of our pockets.

Knox County stands to benefit tremendously by reclaiming lost property taxes from blighted structures.

Investing in existing neighborhoods like Inskip, Edgewood Park, Fairmount Emoriland and Alice Bell Spring Hill allow us to increase Knox County’s revenue to invest in services like schools. It also helps preserve the unique dynamic Knox County has to offer: rich rural traditions with the convenience of city living. In fact, it’s the reason why my friends and neighbors move and stay in Knox County.

Revitalizing our existing neighborhoods is the missing piece of our revenue puzzle. It is irresponsible for us to continue focusing on increasing taxes and new construction to support the growing needs of our community.

The Broadway/I-275 Redevelopment plan is a great place to spark our transformation. I pledge to work with our neighborhoods, City Council and KCDC to ensure we maximize the potential of this area.