KNOXVILLE - Knox County is pausing work on the proposed Unified Development Ordinance to allow Mayor-Elect Betsy Henderson and incoming County Commissioners time to become fully familiar with the process and potential outcomes before moving forward.

The second draft of the proposed zoning map has generated significant interest and feedback from residents and property owners throughout Knox County. The administration’s goal throughout the process has been to protect property rights while elevating development standards across the county.

Because the project will extend beyond the current administration’s term, the county believes a transition period will provide the incoming administration and new County Commissioners with the time necessary to review the work completed to date and determine the appropriate next steps.

“From the beginning, we have said we want to get this right, and we are going to follow through with that, even if it takes more time,” said Knox County Mayor Glenn Jacobs. “Since we will not be able to complete this work before the end of my term, I am entrusting Mayor-Elect Betsy Henderson and the incoming County Commission to carry this work forward. Pausing the work now will allow the next administration to fully understand the proposal, gather more community feedback, and make informed decisions about how to proceed."

Residents may continue to submit comments and concerns regarding the proposed zoning map and Unified Development Ordinance at AdvanceKnox.org/UDO or by contacting the project team at contact@advanceknox.org.