City Council Minutes, January 8, 2026

REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF EAST RIDGE January 8, 2026 6:00 p.m. The East Ridge City Council met pursuant to the meeting notice on January 8, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. in the East Ridge City Hall Council Chambers. Mayor Brian Williams called the meeting to order. City Attorney Mark Litchford gave the invocation. All present joined in for the Pledge of Allegiance. Present: Mayor Brian Williams, Vice Mayor David Tyler, Councilmember Jacky Cagle, Councilmember Jeff Ezell, Councilmember Andrea Witt, City Manager Scott Miller, City Attorney Mark Litchford, Finance Director Diane Qualls, City Clerk Jennifer Deitrick Attendance: Approximately 20 members of the public were present. Milestone Awards Mayor Williams recognized Amanda Bowers for 20 years of service and Cory Hinsch for 10 years of service. Approval of Consent Agenda Councilmember Witt moved to approve the Consent Agenda. Vice Mayor Tyler seconded. There being no discussion, Mayor Williams asked for a roll call vote. Vice Mayor Tyler -yes; Councilmember Cagle - yes; Councilmember Ezell -yes; Councilmember Witt -yes; Mayor Williams -yes. Motion carried unanimously. Communication from Citizens Sabrina Daniel, 4410 Maryland Drive, thanked the Council for denying a recent rezoning request, expressed support for growth and development, and announced her candidacy for the District 8 School Board seat. Communication from Councilmembers Vice Mayor Tyler and Councilmember Witt had no comments. Councilmember Cagle inquired about the status of lighting on the City's welcome signs. City Manager Miller reported that one sign is lit and the City is working on the electrical easement for the other. Councilmember Ezell wished everyone a happy new year. Mayor Williams announced that the open house for Venue 1921 will be held on January 24, 2026. He invited Parks and Recreation Director Skiles to share the upcoming Parks and Recreation events and programs. Mayor Williams then announced the upcoming East Ridge Library events and programs. Communication from City Manager City Manager Miller stated that at the Hamilton County Commission will receive recreation improvement funds from the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, with $3,000,000 allocated to the City of East Ridge for turfing the athletic fields at Camp Jordan Park. He noted that Venue 1921 and the North Mack Smith Road widening project have been completed and provided updates on the Community Center Expansion. He announced that interviews of City Manager candidates will be held on January 12, 2026 and that the City Councill will hold a workshop with the Planning Commission on January 15, 2026 to discuss a proposed mobile food vending ordinance. He then invited Chief Building Official Howell to review recent updates to the FEMA maps. Old Business NONE New Business PUBLIC HEARING FOR ORDINANCE NO. 1239 - AN ORDINANCE OF THE EAST RIDGE CITY COUNCIL TO AMEND THE ZONING REGULATIONS AND THE ZONING MAP OF THE CITY OF January 8, 2026 Council Meeting Page I of4 EAST RIDGE, TENNESSEE SO AS TO REZONE THE PROPERTY LOCATED AT 1408 SAN HSI DRIVE, TAX MAP #l69K-J-009, FROM C-2 GENERAL COMMERCIAL DISTRICT TO R-2 RESIDENTIAL DUPLEX DISTRICT City Attorney Litchford read the ordinance on caption. Mayor Williams opened the public hearing. Chief Building Official Howell stated that the Planning Commission recommended approval, noting that this request is a downzoning and aligns with City Council Resolution No. 3517. Applicant Alan Jones of Stone Creek Consulting stated that the foundation will be raised to comply with flood standards rather than filling the site. Ruth Davis, 1403 San Hsi Drive, expressed opposition to the rezoning, citing concerns about traffic congestion and drainage. She stated that the City has not maintained the catch basins installed at her property. City Manager Miller responded that the City would need to review the plat to determine responsibility for maintaining the catch basin. Chief Building Official Howell stated that this rezoning would help create a better transition from commercial to residential and confirmed that the current zoning permits a higher density than the requested rezoning. Mark Sean Moore, 1402 San Hsi Drive, expressed opposition to the rezoning, citing concerns about water retention and the number ofrental properties. In response to a question from Mr. Moore, Chief Building Official Howell confirmed that Mr. Moore's property would remain a split zone of C-2 and R-1. Chief Building Official Howell noted two options for building in a floodplain and confirmed with the applicant that the intent is to use a CMU block raised foundation. He also stated that no retention is required for this parcel. Following additional discussion, Mayor Williams closed the public hearing. ORDINANCE NO. 1239 - AN ORDINANCE OF THE EAST RIDGE CITY COUNCIL TO AMEND THE ZONING REGULATIONS AND THE ZONING MAP OF THE CITY OF EAST RIDGE, TENNESSEE SO AS TO REZONE THE PROPERTY LOCATED AT 1408 SAN HSI DRIVE, TAX MAP #169K-J-009, FROM C-2 GENERAL COMMERCIAL DISTRICT TO R-2 RESIDENTIAL DUPLEX DISTRICT (1' 1 READING) City Attorney Litchford read the ordinance on caption. Councilmember Ezell moved to deny Ordinance No. 1239. Vice Mayor Tyler seconded. Councilmember Cagle requested that the property owner conduct soil testing to ensure the soil has not been contaminated by the neighboring auto shop. Councilmember Ezell stated that drainage issues should be addressed before allowing construction on the property. In response to a question from Mayor Williams, City Attorney Litchford explained that if a rezoning request of greater intensity is denied, the applicant could not reapply for a rezoning within one year of the date of denial. Since this request is a downzoning to lower intensity, he will review whether the waiting period applies. Councilmember Witt moved to table Ordinance No. 1239. Vice Mayor Tyler seconded. Following brief discussion, Mayor Williams asked for a roll call vote on the motion to table. Vice Mayor Tyler - yes; Councilmember Cagle - yes; Councilmember Ezell -yes; Councilmember Witt-yes; Mayor Williams -yes. Motion carried unanimously. ORDINANCE NO. 1240 - AN ORDINANCE OF THE EAST RIDGE CITY COUNCIL TO AMEND EAST RIDGE MUNICIPAL CODE, TITLE 20, CHAPTER 2, WHICH CHAPTER IS KNOWN AS "THE EAST RIDGE AIR POLLUTION CONTROL ORDINANCE," BY PROVIDING FOR INCREASED PERMIT AND CERTIFICATE FEES (1st READING) City Attorney Litchford read the ordinance on caption. City Manager Miller explained that the Chattanooga- Hamilton County Air Pollution Control Bureau requested this update to increase permit, application, late, license, and emission fees, noting that these fees have not been raised since 2017. January 8, 2026 Council Meeting Page 2 of4 Councilmember Witt moved to approve Ordinance No. 1240. Vice Mayor Tyler seconded. Following brief discussion, Mayor Williams asked for a roll call vote. Vice Mayor Tyler -yes; Councilmember Cagle -yes; Councilmember Ezell -yes; Councilmember Witt-yes; Mayor Williams -yes. Motion carried unanimously. RESOLUTION NO. 3778 - A RESOLUTION OF THE EAST RIDGE CITY COUNCIL APPROVING THE STREET RESURFACING PROGRAM FOR FISCAL YEAR 2025-2026 City Attorney Litchford read the resolution on caption. City Manager Miller reported that the Fiscal Year 2025- 2026 Street Resurfacing Program budget totals $1,300,000. He noted that the proposed program includes portions of residential streets that serve as through or connecting streets. The estimated cost to resurface the proposed list of streets is $1,000,000, leaving $300,000 for additional work. Miller stated that Caldwell Paving has not completed the resurfacing work for Fiscal Year 2024-2025 and recommended that the City pay Caldwell Paving for the work completed and add the uncompleted streets to the Fiscal Year 2025-2026 program, along with the remaining appropriated funds. Vice Mayor Tyler moved to approve Resolution No. 3778. Councilmember Ezell seconded. In response to a question from Councilmember Ezell, City Manager Miller stated that the bid advertisement is ready to be published. Councilmember Cagle asked whether the remaining funds from streets not completed by Caldwell Paving would be sufficient to cover resurfacing costs when reallocated. City Manager Miller stated that he anticipates asphalt prices in Fiscal Year 2025-2026 will be equal to or less than prices in Fiscal Year 2024-2025. In response to a question from Councilmember Ezell, City Manager Miller stated that if allocated funds are insufficient to complete the proposed list of streets, he will either return to Council to amend the resurfacing program or carry over uncompleted streets to the next fiscal year. Following additional discussion, Mayor Williams asked for a roll call vote. Vice Mayor Tyler -yes; Councilmember Cagle - yes; Councilmember Ezell - yes; Councilmember Witt - yes; Mayor Williams - yes. Motion carried unanimously. RESOLUTION NO. 3779 - A RESOLUTION OF THE EAST RIDGE CITY COUNCIL AMENDING RESOLUTION NO. 2634 ADOPTING A REVISED PUBLIC RECORDS POLICY FOR THE CITY OF EAST RIDGE, TENNESSEE City Attorney Litchford read the resolution on caption and explained that the updates simplify procedures for submitting, processing, and responding to public records requests. Councilmember Witt moved to approve Resolution No. 3779. Vice Mayor Tyler seconded. Following brief discussion, Mayor Williams asked for a roll call vote. Vice Mayor Tyler -yes; Councilmember Cagle -yes; Councilmember Ezell -yes; Councilmember Witt -yes; Mayor Williams -yes. Motion carried unanimously. Discussion of Tentative Agenda for the January 22, 2026 City Council Meeting (See Attachment A) ATTACHMENT A TENTATIVE AGENDA January 22, 2026 Presentation of East Ridge Fire Department Special Commendation Awards Chief Williams stated that two firefighters will receive letters of commendation and the shift will receive a unit citation for their efforts during a recent house fire. Old Business ORDINANCE NO. 1239 - AN ORDINANCE OF THE EAST RIDGE CITY COUNCIL TO AMEND THE ZONING REGULATIONS AND THE ZONING MAP OF THE CITY OF EAST RIDGE, TENNESSEE SO AS TO REZONE THE PROPERTY LOCATED AT 1408 SAN HSI DRIVE, TAX MAP #169K-J-009, January 8, 2026 Council Meeting Page 3 of4 FROM C-2 GENERAL COMMERCIAL DISTRICT TO R-2 RESIDENTIAL DUPLEX DISTRICT (2nd READING) This item was tabled and will not be included on the agenda. ORDINANCE NO. 1240 - AN ORDINANCE OF THE EAST RIDGE CITY COUNCIL TO AMEND EAST RIDGE MUNICIPAL CODE, TITLE 20, CHAPTER 2, WHICH CHAPTER IS KNOWN AS "THE EAST RIDGE AIR POLLUTION CONTROL ORDINANCE," BY PROVIDING FOR INCREASED PERMIT AND CERTIFICATE FEES (2nd READING) No discussion. New Business RESOLUTION NO. __ - Acceptance of $3,000,000 from Hamilton County Government for the County's match of City funds for the conversion of athletic fields to turf Parks and Recreation Director Skiles stated that formal approval is needed to accept funds approved by the Hamilton County Commission to match City funds for turfing the athletic fields at Camp Jordan. RESOLUTION NO. __ - Contract for Services for an employment agreement for the City Manager position City Manager Miller stated that the Council will interview two candidates for the City Manager position on January 12, 2026. If the Council does not agree on a candidate after the interviews, this item will not be included on the January 22, 2026, agenda. Councilmember Witt thanked Mr. Miller and staff for vetting and screening the applicants. Councilmember Ezell stated he would like at least five candidates for interviews. City Manager Miller reported that 29 applications were received; eight had city management experience. Three were removed after initial vetting. Zoom interviews were conducted with five candidates, and one was eliminated. Of the remaining four, one withdrew due to salary and another declined due to a scheduling conflict.' In response to a question from Councilmember Ezell, City Manager Miller confirmed that the City will pay travel expenses for the candidates. Councilmember Ezell suggested canceling the January 12 meeting until more candidates are available. Vice Mayor Tyler stated he prefers to proceed with interviewing the two candidates and continue the search if necessary. Councilmember Witt and Mayor Williams agreed. Councilmember Cagle expressed concern about having only two candidates but acknowledged that Council is not obligated to select either. Mayor Williams confirmed the consensus is to proceed with the two interviews. RESOLUTION NO. __ - Contract for Services for a month-to-month employment agreement with J. Scott Miller City Manager Miller stated that his contract expires on January 23, 2026, and he would consider continuing month- to-month to assist with the transition to a new City Manager. Mayor Williams asked if there were any additional items to add to the agenda. No other items were presented. Adjournment There being no further business, the January 8, 2026, Regular Meeting of the City Council of the City of East Ridge was adjourned at 7:39 p.m. January 8, 2026 Council Meeting Page 4 of4 CALLED MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF EAST RIDGE January 12, 2026 6:00 p.m. The East Ridge City Council met pursuant to the meeting notice on January 12, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. in the East Ridge City Hall Council Chambers. Mayor Brian Williams called the meeting to order. Danny Lance of True Life Church delivered the invocation. All present joined in for the Pledge of Allegiance. Present: Mayor Brian Williams, Vice Mayor David Tyler, Councilmember Jacky Cagle, Councilmember Jeff Ezell, Councilmember Andrea Witt, City Manager Scott Miller, City Attorney Mark Litchford, City Clerk Jennifer Deitrick Attendance: Approximately 38 members of the public were present. Interview of City Manager Candidates Mayor Williams explained that each candidate would be brought into the Council Chambers to introduce themselves. Following introductions, Councilmembers would take turns asking questions, cycling through five rounds of questions from each Councilmember. He noted that each candidate would be asked the same questions. In response to a question from Councilmember Ezell, Mayor Williams confirmed that Councilmembers are not required to ask a specific number of questions. The Council proceeded with interviews, beginning with Kevin Owens. After a brief recess, the Council interviewed Michael Powers. Following both interviews, the Council took another briefrecess. Discussion and Selection of Top Candidate for City Manager Appointment Councilmember Cagle stated that both candidates are well qualified but expressed concern about Mr. Powers' response regarding previous employment. He noted that relocation expenses for Mr. Powers from California would be significantly higher than for Mr. Owens from Fayetteville, TN. Councilmember Cagle also highlighted Mr. Owens' familiarity with the Tennessee Municipal League, Municipal Technical Advisory Service, Tennessee Department of Transportation, and Tennessee state laws. Mayor Williams stated that an offer could be made with or without a set limit for travel expenses. Vice Mayor Tyler noted that relocation costs are a concern. He noted Mr. Owens' relationships with state legislators, while acknowledging Mr. Powers' strong understanding of upcoming challenges, particularly the Border Region Act. Vice Mayor Tyler Tyler stated that both candidates are highly qualified Councilmember Witt commented that leaving a job or being discharged can occur without misconduct. Councilmember Ezell stated that he was unsure about selecting either candidate and requested postponing the decision until the January 22, 2026, regular meeting. Mayor Williams stated that Council could ask Mr. Powers follow-up questions regarding his previous employment if he is willing to provide clarification and supported waiting until January 22 to make a decision Vice Mayor Tyler encouraged public and city staff input. The Council agreed to wait until the January 22, 2026 regular Council meeting to make a decision. January 12, 2026 Council Meeting Page I of2 Communication from Citizens Melissa Quintrell, 1036 Hurst Street stated that she liked both candidates, was in favor of the City paying relocation expenses, and expressed concern regarding one of Mr. Powers' responses. Tyler Kapherr, 6814 Martha Avenue, expressed concern regarding one of Mr. Powers' answers and stated that he was not in favor of the City paying relocation expenses. In response to questions from Mr. Kapherr, City Manager Miller stated that only two applicants were from Tennessee and explained the selection process that resulted in the two candidates being selected for an interview. Sabrina Daniel, 4410 Maryland Drive expressed that Mr. Owens demonstrated stronger interpersonal skills and noted his experience in Tennessee as a positive factor. She stated that Mr. Powers may face a learning curve and interpersonal challenges. Ms. Daniel expressed that she was not in favor of the City paying relocation expenses City Manager Miller invited employees to stop by his office to provide their opinions. Marty Von Schaaf, 6821 Village Lake Circle, expressed support for waiting to make a decision and suggested offering higher compensation to attract more qualified candidates. He emphasized the need for a candidate with qualities similar to City Manager Miller. In response to a question from Councilmember Witt, City Manager Miller stated that the City of Collegedale started their City Manager at $150,000, reviewed his compensation, and suggested that a starting salary of $150,000 would be reasonable, noting that the City of East Ridge is a larger community than the City of Co 11 egedal e. Mayor Williams stated that if Council has follow-up questions to let Mr. Miller know. Councilmember Cagle asked about charter provisions related to appointing a City Manager close to an election. City Manager Miller stated most City Managers have a severance clause, typically six months. City Attorney Litchford noted the charter includes a provision preventing termination within one year of appointment. Councilmember Cagle clarified that this effectively provides a one-year guarantee rather than six months. Adjournment There being no further business, the January 12, 2026, Called Meeting of the City Council of the City of East Ridge was adjourned at 8:54 p.m. January 12, 2026 Council Meeting Page 2 of2 WORKSHOP OF THE EAST RIDGE CITY COUNCIL AND EAST RIDGE PLANNING COMMISSION January 15, 2026 6:00 p.m. The East Ridge City Council and East Ridge Planning Commission held a workshop pursuant to public notice on January 15, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. in the East Ridge City Hall Council Chambers. Mayor Brian Williams called the meeting to order. A quorum of both bodies was present. City Attorney Mark Litchford gave the invocation. All present joined in for the Pledge of Allegiance. City Council Members Present at Roll Call: Mayor Brian Williams, Vice Mayor David Tyler, Councilmember Jacky Cagle, Councilmember Jeff Ezell, Councilmember Andrea Witt Note: Mayor Williams and Councilmember Witt also serve on the Planning Commission and are also listed under that body in that capacity. Planning Commission Members Present at Roll Call: Chairperson Casey Tuggle, Vice Chairperson Dana Howe, Commission Member Brian Williams, Commission Member Andrea Witt Note: Commission Member Scott Cornelius was absent at roll call, but entered the meeting at 6: 17 p.m. Staff Present: City Manager Scott Miller, City Attorney Mark Litchford, Chief Building Official Michael Howell, City Clerk Jennifer Deitrick Public Attendance: Two members of the public were present. Discussion of Proposed Mobile Food Vending Ordinance City Manager Miller presented items requiring direction from the Council and Planning Commission before staff proceeds with revisions to the draft ordinance. City Manager Miller asked whether the City wished to allow mobile food vendors to be staged on privately owned property with the property owner's permission, only within designated overlay districts, or a combination of the two. He also discussed the process for establishing an overlay district through a rezoning request. Council and Planning Commission members expressed that overlay districts provide clearer regulation. Concerns were expressed regarding the potential proliferation of mobile food vending along Ringgold Road if staging on private property were broadly permitted. Consensus: Mobile food vendors should be allowed only within designated overlay districts. Property owners may apply to establish an overlay district through the existing rezoning process. The Council and Planning Commission expressed opposition to mobile food vendors being able to permanently stage outside of an overlay district. Commission Member Cornelius entered the meeting at 6: 17 p.m. The Council and Planning Commission discussed special events involving mobile food vending outside overlay districts. Consensus: Allow two (2) special events per parcel per year, with each event lasting up to three (3) consecutive days. The special event permit, issued through the City Manager's office, must be visibly posted. Enforcement would include shutting down unpermitted operations. The Council and Planning Commission discussed the permitted number of mobile food vendors. Consensus: Regulate the number of vendors within each overlay district, with the number determined during the district's approval process. January 15, 2026 City Council and Planning Commission Workshop Page I of2 Site-specific examples of businesses currently hosting permanent mobile food vendors were discussed. Consensus: The ordinance should not designate specific overlay districts; instead, property owners must apply for an overlay district for their parcel. Regarding the Red Wolves Stadium, the consensus was not to exempt the property. Councilmember Cagle raised concerns regarding the impact of mobile vendors on Border Region revenues. City Attorney Litchford stated he would research how revenues are reported for mobile vendors at the Red Wolves Stadium. Councilmember Cagle also raised concerns about fire and emergency access when mobile food trucks are staged on a property and the number of parking spaces required for businesses. Chairperson Tuggle noted ordinance provisions addressing emergency access and Chief Building Official Howell noted that parking-space availability is not currently incorporated in the draft and may require additional review. The rezoning and application process for overlay districts was discussed. Consensus: Establish overlay district standards applicable citywide, with the ability to impose conditions on a case-by-case basis for each application. The Council and Planning Commission discussed schools, churches, neighborhood special events, and fee exemptions for non-profits. City Attorney Litchford noted he would research whether a city ordinance may regulate activity on county school property. Consensus: Exempt schools from overlay-district requirements; require neighborhood events to obtain Special Event Permits; prohibit mobile vending within public rights-of-way; and consider waiving the special event permit fee for non-profits. City Attorney Litchford asked about the renewal date for the annual mobile food vending permit. Consensus: Annual permits will renew on the calendar year with a simplified proration schedule for mid-year applications. Councilmember Ezell inquired about canteen trucks. The bodies directed staff that canteen trucks must obtain an annual permit to operate within the City. Following a question from Councilmember Cagle, Chief Building Official Howell confirmed that mobile food vending operations should not occur within a public right-of-way and stated that correction will be included in the draft ordinance. Mayor Williams asked whether an additional joint workshop would be needed after staff completes the next draft. City Manager Miller stated that the revised ordinance would be provided to both bodies for review, and a determination will then be made on whether another workshop is necessary before the ordinance proceeds for formal consideration. In response to a question from Councilmember Cagle, City Manager Miller confirmed that proof of restroom access should be submitted with the application. Public Comments Mayor Williams opened the floor for public comments. No public comments were made. Adjournment There being no further business, the January 15, 2026, Workshop of the East Ridge City Council and East Ridge Planning Commission was adjourned at 7:48 p.m. MAYOR ~d~ YCLE January 15, 2026 City Council and Planning Commission Workshop Page 2 of2 REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF EAST RIDGE January 22, 2026 6:00 p.m. The East Ridge City Council met pursuant to the meeting notice on January 22, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. in the East Ridge City Hall Council Chambers. Mayor Brian Williams called the meeting to order. Charles Cochran of the East Ridge Church of Christ gave the invocation. All present joined in for the Pledge of Allegiance. Present: Mayor Brian Williams, Vice Mayor David Tyler, Councilmember Jacky Cagle, Councilmember Jeff Ezell, Councilmember Andrea Witt, City Manager Scott Miller, City Attorney Mark Litchford, Finance Director Diane Qualls, City Clerk Jennifer Deitrick Attendance: Approximately 38 members of the public were present. Presentation of East Ridge Fire Department Special Commendation Awards Fire Chief Williams announced that Tony Malisaka and Joshua Williams have been awarded letters of commendation and that the Red Shift has received a shift citation. These awards were presented for their efforts during a recent house fire in which an individual was trapped inside the structure. Approval of Consent Agenda Councilmember Witt moved to approve the Consent Agenda. Vice Mayor Tyler seconded. There being no discussion, Mayor Williams asked for a roll call vote. Vice Mayor Tyler -yes; Councilmember Cagle -yes; Councilmember Ezell - yes; Councilmember Witt - yes; Mayor Williams - yes. Motion carried unanimously. Communication from Citizens Marie Holmes, 3620 Gleason Drive, expressed concern regarding on-street parking and requested No Parking signs. City Manager Miller confirmed that the signage has already been approved and will be installed. Communication from Councilmembers Vice Mayor Tyler expressed appreciation for a recent fire safety class. Councilmember Ezell reminded the public of the upcoming cold temperatures and encouraged residents to watch for icy conditions. Councilmember Cagle and Councilmember Witt had no comments. Mayor Williams announced that the grand opening of Venue 1921 and the unveiling of the Mayors' Plaque in the atrium of City Hall have been rescheduled to February 7, 2026, due to inclement weather forecasts. Mayor Williams then invited Parks and Recreation Director Skiles to announce the upcoming Parks and Recreation events. Mayor Williams also reported on the upcoming East Ridge Library events and programs. Communication from City Manager City Manager Miller provided a progress update on the Community Center expansion project and noted that the closure date for the Bauchman Tunnel has changed but the new date has not yet been released. Old Business ORDINANCE NO. 1240 - AN ORDINANCE OF THE EAST RIDGE CITY COUNCIL TO AMEND EAST RIDGE MUNICIPAL CODE, TITLE 20, CHAPTER 2, WHICH CHAPTER IS KNOWN AS "THE EAST RIDGE AIR POLLUTION CONTROL ORDINANCE," BY PROVIDING FOR INCREASED PERMIT AND CERTIFICATE FEES (2nd READING) January 22, 2026 Council Meeting Page I of4 City Attorney Litchford read the ordinance on caption. City Manager Miller stated that the Chattanooga-Hamilton County Air Pollution Control Bureau requested an update to the City's ordinance to increase permit, application, late, license, and emission fees. Councilmember Ezell moved to approve Ordinance No. 1240. Vice Mayor Tyler seconded. There being no discussion, Mayor Williams asked for a roll call vote. Vice Mayor Tyler - yes; Councilmember Cagle - yes; Councilmember Ezell - yes; Councilmember Witt - yes; Mayor Williams - yes. Motion carried unanimously. Discussion and Selection of Top Candidate for City Manager Appointment Mayor Williams stated that he had met with department heads, citizens, and staff for feedback. He noted that although two candidates possessed strong qualifications, he recommended reopening the recruitment process. Councilmembers Ezell and Witt agreed, with Councilmember Witt asking whether the same recruitment method would be used. Mayor Williams recommended continuing with the current process. Vice Mayor Tyler stated he had received mixed feedback from citizens and employees and expressed no objection to reopening the search. Councilmember Cagle requested that Council be provided with a minimum number of resumes for consideration. Mayor Williams raised the question of whether the salary range should be increased based on a nearby jurisdiction's higher offer. City Manager Miller stated that he had shared his salary and car allowance with candidates; three chose to continue in the process, and one withdrew due to salary. Vice Mayor Tyler asked about the timing related to the budget process. City Manager Miller explained his role in preparing the budget and noted that Finance Director Qualls completes preliminary budget work. Councilmember Ezell moved to readvertise for the City Manager position. Vice Mayor Tyler seconded. Mayor Williams confirmed the recruitment process would remain the same. Councilmember Cagle requested at least five resumes be presented for consideration. There being no further discussion, Mayor Williams asked for a roll call vote. Vice Mayor Tyler - yes; Councilmember Cagle - yes; Councilmember Ezell - yes; Councilmember Witt - yes; Mayor Williams - yes. Motion carried unanimously. Following the vote, Council briefly discussed salary parameters and agreed to advertise the position with a salary range of $145,000-$160,000. New Business ORDINANCE NO. 1241 - AN ORDINANCE OF THE EAST RIDGE CITY COUNCIL TO AMEND THE FISCAL YEAR 2026 OPERATING BUDGET, ORDINANCE NO. 1226, BY CHANGING THE REVENUES AND EXPENDITURES OF VARIO US FUNDS (1st READING) Finance Director Qualls reviewed the proposed amendments to the Fiscal Year 2026 budget ordinance. Vice Mayor Tyler moved to approve Ordinance No. 1241. Councilmember Ezell seconded. There being no discussion, Mayor Williams asked for a roll call vote. Vice Mayor Tyler - yes; Councilmember Cagle - yes; Councilmember Ezell -yes; Councilmember Witt -yes; Mayor Williams - yes. Motion carried unanimously. RESOLUTION NO. 3780 - A RESOLUTION OF THE EAST RIDGE CITY COUNCIL ACCEPTING THREE MILLION FOUR HUNDRED FIFTY-FOUR THOUSAND DOLLARS ($3,454,000.00) FROM HAMILTON COUNTY GOVERNMENT FOR THE CONVERSION OF ATHLETIC FIELDS TO SYNTHETIC TURF AT CAMP JORDAN PARK City Attorney Litchford read the resolution on caption. Parks and Recreation Director Skiles stated that the Hamilton County Commission authorized the County Mayor to accept funds from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, and that of the total funding awarded to the County, $3,454,000 was designated for the turf improvements at Camp Jordan Park. January 22, 2026 Council Meeting Page 2 of 4 Councilmember Witt moved to approve Resolution No. 3780. Vice Mayor Tyler seconded. There being no discussion, Mayor Williams asked for a roll call vote. Vice Mayor Tyler - yes; Councilmember Cagle - yes; Councilmember Ezell - yes; Councilrnember Witt - yes; Mayor Williams - yes. Motion carried unanimously. RESOLUTION NO. 3781 - A RESOLUTION OF THE EAST RIDGE CITY COUNCIL APPROVING A FIRST AMENDMENT TO THE CITY MANAGER EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT AND AUTHORIZING ITS EXECUTION City Attorney Litchford read the resolution on caption. City Manager Miller stated that the amendment extends his employment agreement to February 27, 2026, and includes a 3% salary increase, consistent with the increase provided to all City staff effective July 1, 2025. Councilmember Witt moved to approve Resolution No. 3781. Vice Mayor Tyler seconded. Following brief discussion, Mayor Williams asked for a roll call vote. Vice Mayor Tyler - yes; Councilmember Cagle - yes; Councilmember Ezell - yes; Councilmember Witt - yes; Mayor Williams - yes. Motion carried unanimously. Discussion of Tentative Agenda for the February 12, 2026 City Council Meeting (See Attachment A) ATTACHMENT A TENTATIVE AGENDA February 12, 2026 Old Business ORDINANCE NO. 1241 - AN ORDINANCE OF THE EAST RIDGE CITY COUNCIL TO AMEND THE FISCAL YEAR 2026 OPERATING BUDGET, ORDINANCE NO. 1226, BY CHANGING THE REVENUES AND EXPENDITURES OF VARIO US FUNDS (2nd READING) No discussion. New Business RESOLUTION NO. __ - City Court Clerk Pay Adjustment Court Clerk Cassidy stated that the Court Clerk position has not received a salary increase in the last eight years. Mayor Williams asked if there were any additional items to add to the agenda. City Manager Miller requested that discussion of a false alarm ordinance be added to the agenda. Police Chief Uselton and Fire Chief Williams summarized the operational impact of repeated false fire and burglar alarms. Chief Williams noted the proposed ordinance would not apply to single-family residences. City Attorney Litchford clarified that under the draft ordinance, the property owner and alarm operator would be responsible for any fines. Councilmember Cagle expressed concern regarding trucks with more than three axles on Spring Creek Road and Sunnyfield Lane. City Manager Miller stated that "No Through Truck Traffic" signage has been authorized for Sunnyfield Lane, and signage could be posted on Spring Creek Road following Council direction. After some discussion, City Manager Miller stated that staff will work on verbiage for signage on Spring Creek Road that would still allow local deliveries to Parkridge Hospital. Councilmember Cagle also raised concerns about tractor-trailer parking on vacant lots along Ringgold Road. Chief Uselton reported that the property owner has agreed to block the lot. City Manager Miller added that some municipalities had signed agreements with property owners authorizing police to issue citations or tow vehicles where "No Truck Parking" signs were installed. Chief Uselton confirmed that the East Ridge Police Department has similar forms that can be adapted for this purpose. Mayor Williams announced that the Whataburger drive-thru will open to the public on January 26 and noted that the City will have resources in place to monitor traffic. January 22, 2026 Council Meeting Page 3 of 4 Adjournment There being no further business, the January 22, 2026, Regular Meeting of the City Council of the City of Rast Ridge was adjourned at 7:14 p.m. MAYOR ~ YCLERK ~MU January 22, 2026 Council Meeting Page 4 of 4