The Knoxville City Council met in regular session last night.

The primary item of discussion was a preliminary review of the budget presented by City Manager Aaron Adams. Council Members began to review priorities for the coming year. Much of the city’s money is tied up in ongoing improvements like streets and sidewalk, but some discretionary funding is still available. The Hotel Motel Tax, which generates around $90,000 dollars per year, is designated for improvements aimed at increasing tourism and city growth. The creation of a visitor’s bureau or greater partnership with the Knoxville Economic Development Council were discussed as possible channels for the funding. Final budget discussions will take place January 16. The council also adopted an ordinance which restricts water coming from sump pumps and footing drains from flowing onto public streets or sidewalks and held public hearings on the sale of city property at 1614 E. Marion and 705 S. Third Street.