KNOX COUNTY, TN - During his Weekly Update today, Knox County Mayor Glenn Jacobs shared his New Year’s resolutions while also providing an overview of Knox County’s strong financial standing and positive outlook for the year ahead.

Mayor Jacobs notes that despite budget challenges caused by a temporary decrease in property tax revenue, Knox County remains on solid fiscal footing. Sales tax collections have increased approximately three percent month-over-month this fiscal year, while hotel-motel tax revenue is up nearly four percent compared to this time last year, fueling tourism-related investments and major economic activity. “Now, hotel-motel funds can only be spent on activities that drive tourism, so we use these funds to do things like converting the Knox County Sports Park baseball infields to turf, which should be ready in time for this year's baseball season,” says Mayor Jacobs. “Not only will this drive sports tourism but will also be a great amenity for Knox County residents.”

Jacobs also highlights major tourism drivers expected in 2026, including the return of the Bassmaster Classic, a Luke Combs concert at Neyland Stadium, and multiple sold-out events featuring the Savannah Bananas. He points to Covenant Health Park as a standout success, already generating more than 27 percent above projected sales tax revenue in its first year.

“We projected it would produce $950,000 in sales tax for the first year. Through October, it was already at $1.2 million,” exclaims Mayor Jacobs.

He ends the update by outlining his New Year’s resolutions, reaffirming his commitment to fiscal responsibility and to holding the line on property taxes.