The City of Crossville held a work session on May 5, 2026, to discuss a dense agenda ranging from community events and budget planning to significant infrastructure repairs. During the public comment period, Gina Knight disputed a $5,300 water bill, arguing that a reported usage of 369,000 gallons was physically impossible and likely linked to nearby road construction that left her water meter unsupported and exposed. Mayor Crawford and the City Manager committed to reviewing the case and providing a resolution within 24 hours. Following this, the Council reviewed several upcoming community events, including the July 4th parade—noting potential staffing challenges due to the holiday—and the “Birthday Bash” scheduled for September to celebrate the city’s 125th anniversary and the Depot’s centennial.

A significant portion of the session was dedicated to the fiscal year 2026-2027 budget and major capital projects. The Council discussed a scheduled increase in the TCRS retirement rate to 17.17% for legacy employees and moved forward with ordinances for the upcoming budget and tax rate. Infrastructure discussions were headlined by a bid review for Fire Station #1; the project came in roughly $125,000 over budget, prompting the Council to consider removing a $148,000 “heated floors” alternate to stay within fiscal limits while preserving essential truck bay space. Other technical approvals included a grant for airport equipment, a change order for the “spec building” due to foundation revisions, and engineering contract amendments for downtown traffic signal upgrades.

The meeting concluded with a series of administrative updates and board appointments. The Council reviewed a final change order for Fire Station #2, which included a credit of over $77,000 that the Mayor suggested could potentially offset costs for Fire Station #1. Various ordinances were discussed to clarify the roles of administrative hearing officers and public officers to align with state legislation. Finally, the Council addressed several board vacancies, reappointing willing incumbents to the Health and Education Facilities Board and the Building Codes Board of Appeals, while recommending Kim Lyle for the Crossville Housing Authority. A decision on the Convention and Visitors Bureau appointment was tabled until June.