In this Knoxville Insider Issue…

🌤️ Knoxville Weather - Light Rain with a High of 61

📰 Property Tax Freeze Program for Senior and Disabled Homeowners

📰 Significant Changes at Knoxville Processing & Distribution Center: Impacts on Employees and Mail Delivery

📰 Year-Round Support of Knoxville Small Businesses

📰 Local Senior Found in NC after Silver-Alert Issued

🗓️ Upcoming Events? Send us the Details!

📅 Upcoming Events

💡 We Want to Spotlight Your Business!
 

Property Tax Freeze Program for Senior and Disabled Homeowners

Homeowners in Knox County who are 65 or older and earn less than $44,910 annually may be eligible for a property tax freeze. This program ensures their property taxes won't increase even if the value of their home rises. In 2024, the income threshold for eligibility is expected to increase to $60,000. However, if the property taxes decrease, the frozen base amount will decrease accordingly.

Additionally, Knox County offers other tax relief programs. For disabled veterans, widows, and widowers, a program is available that provides $680 in tax relief without an income limit. Another program offers $120 in tax relief to disabled and elderly homeowners (65 or older) whose income does not exceed $33,460 annually. These programs have significantly helped many residents manage their expenses.

Residents who believe they may qualify for these tax relief programs can contact the Knox County Trustee at (865) 215-2305. More Info

Year-Round Support of Knoxville Small Businesses

In recent years, the importance of supporting locally owned small businesses has become increasingly prominent, especially during the holiday season. However, the need to sustain these businesses extends far beyond the traditional shopping peaks of November and December.

Local businesses are more than just retail stores or restaurants; they are a vital part of the local economy. They create jobs, contribute to the local tax base, and circulate money within the community. Studies have shown that for every dollar spent at a local business, a significant portion remains within the community, compared to spending at national chains or online giants. This reinvestment leads to a multiplier effect, enhancing community development and prosperity.

Supporting local businesses doesn't just mean shopping at local stores. It can also include using local services, dining at local restaurants, and participating in events hosted by local businesses. Additionally, promoting local businesses through word-of-mouth, social media, and leaving positive reviews can have a significant impact.

Supporting locally owned small businesses is a year-round commitment that benefits the entire community. By choosing to shop local, not just during the holiday season but throughout the year, we can help sustain the unique character of our communities, contribute to economic stability, and foster stronger community ties.

Significant Changes at Knoxville Processing & Distribution Center: Impacts on Employees and Mail Delivery

The Knoxville Processing & Distribution Center (P&DC) postal facility is facing significant changes, including a potential downsizing and shifting of operations to Louisville, Kentucky.

This move will impact more than 60 out of 450+ employees, requiring them to either relocate or find new employment. Additionally, around 150 part-time non-career employees may also lose their jobs due to the restructuring. This downsizing may cause delays in mail delivery across a large region.

The restructuring poses challenges for both career and non-career employees, with some potentially facing layoffs without benefits and others needing to accept jobs far from their current location.

Local Contributor: Lia Nichol

Local Senior Found in NC after Silver-Alert Issued

Deborah Skaggs, 69, who was reported missing in Knoxville, has been safely located in North Carolina. The Knoxville Police Department indicated that she is in good health and will undergo a routine health check at a local hospital as a precaution.

Upcoming Events? Send us the Details!

Do you know of upcoming January events? Or, are you hosting upcoming January events? Send us the details! Let’s get them showcased in the Knoxville Insider! [email protected] 

Upcoming Events

Have an event to add? Let us know! [email protected] 

December/January Multi-Date Events:

• Downtown Peppermint Trail: Now through 1/7/2024. More Info

• Ice Skating in Market Square: An open-air ice rink, Now through 1/2/2024. More Info

January Events:

• Farragut Health & Wellness Expo: Saturday, January 13th, from 10am - 3pm More Info

We Want To Spotlight Your Business!

Would you like us to spotlight your local business in front of thousands of Knoxville area residents in an upcoming issue of Knoxville Insider?

We ❤️ Local Businesses!

We know our community is brimming with businesses that have fascinating stories and big hearts. If you're a local business owner making waves, crafting unique experiences, or simply putting a smile on our faces, we want to chat with you! "Knoxville Insider" is eager to shine a light on the unsung heroes of our town. Let's collaborate and let the community know what makes your business special. Send us a message to [email protected] and let's celebrate the spirit of Knoxville together! Not a business owner, but love a local business? Tell us all about it at the email address above!