Knox County Targets Hazardous Recycling Facility for Revitalization

Local leaders discuss plans to transform a hazardous recycling facility in Knox County.

News Summary

Knox County plans to acquire two properties in North Knoxville, currently home to a problematic recycling facility. The site has been plagued with fires and code violations, causing significant concern among residents. The proposed transformation focuses on turning the locations into a county-wide maintenance facility, aiming to rejuvenate the community and address ongoing environmental hazards. Amid financial troubles faced by the current owners, local interest in developing the area for housing and parks remains strong.

Knox County Eyes Fire-Prone Recycling Facility for Community Revitalization

In a big move aimed at cleaning up the neighborhood, Knox County leaders have set their sights on a problematic recycling facility located in North Knoxville. This site, owned by Fort Loudon Waste and Recycling and Edstock LLC, has become a major concern for local residents due to its history of fires and code violations.

The Proposal Breaks Ground

The county is looking to acquire two specific properties at 2742 Hancock Street and 302 North Avenue for a hefty sum of over $4.3 million. The goal is not just to take over the land, but to transform it into a new county-wide maintenance facility. This move has stirred up some hope in the community that the ugly chapter of fires and code violations could soon come to an end.

A Community Tragedy

The Hancock Street location has been the site of several alarming incidents, including a large-scale fire back in August 2023 that reignited community fears. Just this year alone, the Knoxville Fire Department has had to respond to four fires, with notable incidents occurring in February, May, and July. In May, the flames were deemed to have been caused by arson committed by two juveniles, adding an even darker layer to the facility’s troubling track record.

Financial Troubles for Owners

The facility’s owners, Fort Loudon Waste and Recycling, are also facing significant financial trouble, reportedly owing more than $257,000 in back taxes to both the county and the city. Moreover, the facility does not have a valid business license and is no longer recognized as an active corporation in Tennessee. Many believe these financial issues have compounded the existing hazards.

Code Violations and Community Impact

In total, there have been 17 complaints alleging code violations filed against the facility since a major fire in 2019. This has left many locals feeling trapped and concerned for their safety, especially after a judge found the owners in violation of the zoning code earlier this year and fined them $12,578.

With residents commonly describing the detrimental effects of the fires, including evacuations of around 100 homes due to smoke from the 2019 fire, the need for action has never been clearer. Neighbors are rallying for a positive change, advocating for the land’s repurposing into a park or multi-family housing that could benefit the community at large.

The Cleanup Dilemma

Following the most recent fire, the city issued a demolition order for the wreckage, mandating the owners to cover the cleanup costs. However, if these costs go unpaid, the city plans to file a lien against the property. Compounding these issues, residents have expressed concerns about environmental hazards linked to runoff and other aesthetic problems stemming from the facility’s existence.

Looking Ahead

Despite the facility being for sale for at least ten months, interest from developers focused on turning the site into much-needed housing persists. This ongoing interest shines a light on the potential for transformation in an area long burdened by pollution and hazards.

As plans begin to take shape, county representatives have indicated that discussions are underway for potential partnerships with Knox County Schools and programming concepts are expected to be introduced soon. This could pave the way for a revitalized space that better serves the neighborhood.

A Rising Call for Action

Local communication with city officials, including the mayor, has grown frustrating for residents who feel the pace of the response has been sluggish. Many continue to call to action for a speedy resolution and are eager to see a future where their neighborhoods are safe, clean, and inviting.

In conclusion, Knox County’s proposed acquisition of this infamous site signifies a turning point—inviting hope and revitalization in a community yearning for change.