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Balanced Budget with No Tax Increase for FY-21

[UPDATE: At the June 16, Board of Mayor and Aldermen business meeting, the FY 20-21 budget was passed.]

City Manager Chris McCartt has presented a balanced budget with no tax increase. In order to balance the FY-21 budget amid the COVID-19 pandemic, a very conservative approach was taken to ensure Kingsport could maintain consistency in service delivery to its residents.

McCartt is required to present a balanced general fund budget each year. He’s anticipating a $5.5 million loss in General Fund revenue. To balance the budget, over $3.9 million in cuts were made, along with transferring $1.6 million from the General Fund unassigned fund balance.

Budget cuts were made from programs, training, temporary labor and special programs. All unfilled vacancies for city employment are being held and there will be no step increase or cost of living adjustments for city employees.

“The budget isn’t a one-time event, but an ongoing process,” said McCartt. “We will be monitoring our revenues and expenditures, while also keeping an eye on the economy. If we see better revenue than what we’re anticipating, we will amend the FY-21 budget to reflect those positive increases.”

City staff is continuing to manage $20 million in general government capital projects, such as the pump track design for the Brickyard Park property, city park improvements at Lynn View, planetarium renovations and continuing the sustainable paving plan. These projects use money that’s been borrowed previously or use grant funding so they will continue to progress as scheduled.

Next steps include passing the FY-21 budget during the June 2 and 16 Board of Mayor and Aldermen meetings.

For more information regarding the budget presentations, please go to www.kingsporttn.gov and search ‘budget.’

KPD e-News Release: K.P.D. Requesting Citizens Be on the Lookout for Missing Hawkins County Man

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Kingsport Police Department

David Quillin, Chief of Police

200 Shelby Street • Kingsport, TN 37660

http://Police.KingsportTN.gov • www.KingsportPDBlog.com

NEWS RELEASE
SUBJECT: K.P.D. Requesting Citizens Be on the Lookout for Missing Hawkins County Man
DATE: May 22, 2020
CASE #: 20-010511
GENERAL NARRATIVE
On the morning of May 19, 2020, Nicholas L. Massengill was reported as a missing person to the Kingsport Police Department by a family member who advised that he had not been seen or heard from by relatives, friends, or coworkers since April 27, 2020. While there is no known reason to suspect foul play at this time, being out of contact for an extended period of time such as this is reportedly out of character for him.

He was last seen on foot in the area of Brookside Drive in Kingsport, allegedly walking back toward his residence in the Surgoinsville area of Hawkins County. Mr. Massengill is a 38 year old white male. He is approximately 5 feet 9 inches tall and weighs roughly 200 pounds. He has brown hair and green eyes. An array of photos is included with this release.

Anyone who sees him, or who may know his current whereabouts, is asked to contact Detectives in the K.P.D. Criminal Investigations Division at 423-229-9429 or call Kingsport Central Dispatch at 423-246-9111.

Alternatively, if an individual who is able to supply information related to this or any other case wishes not to be identified, tips can be submitted anonymously via online “Citizen Feedback” forms available at the following link:

https://www.kingsporttn.gov/city-services/police-department/contact-us
MISSING PERSON INFORMATION
Name Nicholas L. Massengill
Age 38 Years of Age
Gender/Race Male/White
Height/

Weight

 5 feet 9 inches

200 pounds
Hair/Eyes Brown Hair

Green Eyes
Residency Hawkins County, TN
Last Known Point of Contact April 27, 2020

Brookside Drive

Kingsport, TN

RELEASING OFFICER
Thomas M. Patton, Public Information Officer

Kingsport Police Department Professional Standards Unit

423-229-9433 (Desk) • 423-224-2786 (FAX)

ThomasMPatton

Notice of Public Meeting

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN to all citizens of the Kingsport Tennessee-Virginia area and the public at large, there will be a Public Meeting of the Kingsport Metropolitan Transportation Planning Organization (MTPO) Executive Board on Thursday, June 4, 2020 at 1:30 P.M. In light of the COVID-19 pandemic and pursuant to Executive Order 34 in Tennessee and HB29 in Virginia, the meeting will be held electronically with no physical access permitted by the public. Executive Board members are not required to be physically present together. Board members attending the meeting by electronic or telephonic means will be counted in the quorum and will be entitled to vote. All votes will be taken by roll call. Copies of the agenda and supporting documentation can be found here. The primary items for this meeting include consideration/approval of the FY21 Unified Planning Work Program (UPWP) for Virginia, Resolution of Support for Scott County Virginia’s Smart Scale Project Application, an Amendment to the FY20-23 TIP, and Amendment to the Executive Board Bylaws. A public hearing will also be held in order to receive comments and questions on these or other items pertaining to the Kingsport Metropolitan Transportation Planning Organization. Members of the public can access the meeting by sending an email to MTPO@KingsportTN.gov to request the log in information for the meeting. In order to allow time to respond, your request must be received by 12:00 pm on June 4, 2020. Disabled citizens wishing to attend and needing special accommodations or anyone seeking further information on the MTPO meeting should contact William A. Albright at (423) 224-2677. For persons with disabilities or limited English proficiency, contact VDOT’s Civil Rights Division at 804-786-2085 or by mail 1401 E Broad St, Richmond, Virginia 23219. In Tennessee you may contact TDOT’s Civil Rights Office at (615) 714-3169. If you have a hearing or speech disability or use a TTD please use the FCC 711 dialing code to access a Telecommunications Relay Service to forward your comment. Kingsport MTPO ensures nondiscrimination and equal employment in all programs and activities in accordance with Title VI and Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Si usted necesita la traducción por favor entre en contacto con el MTPO en por el teléfono en 423-224-2677.

Kingsport Public Library adds content streaming service, hoopla digital

The popular on-demand film streaming service, hoopla digital, is now available for free at Kingsport Public Library. Library card holders can access over 600,000 titles (audiobooks, eBooks, comics, movies and TV). Content can be streamed from any computer, television, mobile device or platform by downloading the hoopla digital app for iOS, Android, AppleTV, Chromecast or Roku.

hoopla digital has pioneered a unique model that allows patrons to borrow content immediately, removing artificial availability constraints and maximizing the power of digital content and Internet distribution. Technologically, hoopla digital focuses on the latest browser, phone, tablet, and TV products to deliver the best possible experience to each user – the public library patron.

“We are excited to make this resource available to the community,” Kingsport Public Library manager Chris Markley said, “hoopla offers a variety of formats, music CDs, downloadable e-books, audiobooks, comic books, movies, and television programs so there really is something for everyone. But best of all, hoopla allows instant access to all content without waiting lists or holds. Another advantage is that the hoopla app allows you to download these albums, movies, or books to your smartphone or tablet computer wherever you have Wifi access so that you can watch. listen, or read them later without Internet access. Users can borrow and download up to 4 items per month on their account.”

The hoopla digital collection includes fan favorite movies, newly released albums, New York Times bestselling titles and exclusive STEAM educational content to enhance each user’s experience. Kingsport Public Library is excited to provide this new resource that the community will be able to use from home.

If you have any questions, you can call 423-229-9465 during normal library hours. For more information, please visit kingsportlibrary.org.

Memorial Day Service Hosted by Tri-Cities Military Affairs Council

The Tri-Cities Military Affairs Council (TCMAC) is hosting a Memorial Day event for local veterans at J. Fred Johnson Park at the Veterans Memorial on May 25 at 11:00 a.m.

Attendees are strongly encouraged to continue the standard best practices. These include:

  • Social distancing – please keep the appropriate 6 ft of separation between you and others
  • Facial coverings – please wear the appropriate facial coverings for the duration of the event; it is best to put your mask on before leaving your vehicle and removing once you return to your vehicle

“We host this event to always honor and remember those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice in defense of our great nation,” said Ernie Rumsby, President of Tri-Cities Military Affairs Council.

If anyone would like to watch the event from their home, they can tune into the City of Kingsport’s YouTube channel or watch on Facebook on the TC-MAC page.

For more information, please call 954-687-6943.

Kingsport Farmers Market to Open May 23

The Kingsport Farmers Market will begin its 2020 season on Saturday, May 23. In order to keep vendors and market-goers as safe as possible, some operations have changed.

“We’re excited to get the season underway,” said Kristie Leonard, market manager and Special Events Coordinator for Kingsport. “But for us to be able to open and continue to operate this season, this won’t be our market as usual.”

At the direction of the Sullivan County Regional Health Department, the market will implement new protocols for guests and vendors alike.

The most obvious change will be in how you enter and exit the market. There will now be designated, clearly marked entry and exit points, as well as signage inside the market to help visitors navigate the new vendor layout. To create adequate space between vendors, parking has been modified (see map). Overflow parking is available in the Kingsport Chamber of Commerce lot.

The CDC and the SCRHD recommend that people wear masks when visiting public places like the market.

All market programs, including Saturdays with the Chef and the Homegrown Gardening series, have been suspended until further notice. Anyone who needs to redeem SNAP benefits may do so at the market kiosk.

So what do market visitors need to prepare for?
– If you feel sick or experiencing symptoms of COVID-19, stay home.
– Be alert and follow all posted signage in the market.
– Maintain at least six feet of space between yourself and others. Look for physical cues like tape, chalk and signage to help you remember.
– Be prepared to shop quickly and efficiently. Farmers markets are often social place, but it’s important right now to refrain from socializing in groups for a long period of time.
– Only touch produce you intend to purchase. Allow vendors to help you with produce.
– Please bring small bills or exact change to limit cash transactions.
– You may bring reusable bags, but please do not pass to vendors to fill. Your vendor will hand bagged products to you for you to place in your bag. Vendors will have a limited number of paper and reusable bags on hand.
– Do not eat on site—take all foods to go.
– Wash all produce when you arrive home.
– Please respect vendors by leaving adequate space between yourself and them. Do not go behind a vendor table.
– Leave your furry friends at home. To maintain the quick and easy flow of customers through the market, only service animals will be allowed at this time.
– Wash and sanitize your hands often.

Wednesday markets will begin on June 3. To learn more about the Kingsport Farmers Market, please visit kingsportfarmersmarket.org.

farmers market map

 

Canceled: Parks and Recreation Summer Program

The Kingsport Parks and Recreation department has made the difficult decision to cancel its Summer Program for 2020. While the decision is one out of caution for the safety and health of summer program participants, staff have come up with unique and fun ways kids can still get involved and have fun this summer!

“We realize a lot of kids look forward to summer camp with us every year and we know it is always important to engage in mental and physical activities,” said Parks and Recreation Program Administrator Renee Ensor. “We are excited to offer some new family oriented programs this year, which provide a variety of leisure time choices.”

Here are the programs your children can chose to take part in:

  • Summer program in a box
    • This box will include six themed weeks; each week will have games and crafts pertaining to that theme. The box will also include a t-shirt, water bottle, sunglasses and more! Every week the parks and recreation staff will have scheduled zoom calls with the kids to do some physical activities and games.
    • Registration is required – May 18-29
    • Fee: $20 per box/$15 after first child
  • Pickleball
    • Outdoor pickleball at the Borden Park court. We will have scheduled time slots on Mondays and Thursdays from 9am-1pm. Open to ages 14 and above. The scheduled time slots will not exceed more than 10 people and the parks and recreation staff will be disinfecting the pickle balls at the end of each time slot. Participants must bring their own paddles. To register you must call (423) 224-2489 or email ReneeEnsor@KingsportTN.gov
  • NBA 2k
    • Staff will be hosting a virtual NBA 2k tournament and season.
    • Ages 8-12
    • Participants must have their own gaming console and NBA 2k game. No equipment will be provided.
    • Contact (423) 343-9723 or TravisSensabaugh@KingsportTN.gov to register
    • Registration date: May 22-June 5
  • Fortnite Fridays
    • Parks and Recreation staff will be hosting virtual Fortnite Fridays where participants will be able to play Fortnite games with others and parks and recreation staff.
    • Ages 6-12
    • Participants must have their own gaming console and Fortnite game. No equipment will be provided.
    • Contact (423) 343-9723 or TravisSensabaugh@KingsportTN.gov to register
    • Registration date: May 22-June 5
  • Travel Trainer
    • Parks and Recreation staff will be going throughout different communities to bring the workout to you. Staff will be doing simple fitness instruction and all equipment will be provided. Classes will not exceed more than 10 people and the staff will designate spots for participants that will meet the 6 feet apart guidelines. Contact (423) 343-9723 or email TravisSensabaugh@KingsportTN.gov to find out dates, times and locations.

Additional programs for disc golf, archery, tennis, walking, cornhole toss, nutrition, health/wellness and much more will be offered later this summer.  Stay tuned and check out Kingsport Parks and Recreation on social media for more information about these exciting opportunities.

For more information, please visit www.kingsportparksandrecreation.org.

Kingsport Aquatic Center to Reopen with Limited Capacity

The Kingsport Aquatic Center will begin a phased, limited reopening on May 18.

Some operations have changed to comply with the Tennessee Pledge. The KAC’s priority is safeguarding both guests and its team, so we are following guidelines from the CDC, the White House, the State of Tennessee and the Sullivan County Regional Health Department.

KAC’s COVID-19 Reopening Operational Hours (beginning May 18)
     Monday – Friday: 7 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Saturday: 8 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Sunday: Closed for deep cleaning

At the direction of the SCRHD, the KAC can allow no more than 10 people in the indoor pool area at any time for lap swim and individual exercise in a lap lane. Pool time must be reserved in advance by calling our front desk at 423-343-9758 to ensure ample pool space and social distancing protocol.

 All guests are strongly encouraged to wear masks while at the facility unless actively swimming. If you are sick or experiencing symptoms of COVID-19, please stay home.

  • Lane reservation does not guarantee entry. A KAC membership, daily admission purchase or Kingsport YMCA membership is required for entry.
  • No groups will be allowed at this time.
  • Locker rooms will be closed during Phase 1 to limit congregating as much as possible. Please arrive already prepared to swim with suit on under your clothes. Locker rooms will not be available for showering and changing after your swim.
  • On deck showers are available and should be used before entering the pool. On deck bathrooms will also be open.
  • Please enter through the main entrance. To minimize interaction with doors, you will enter the pools on the parking lot side of the HMG Competition Pool, then exit through the double doors between the play pool and lobby.
  • If you would like to use pool equipment, you can check it out from the front desk, then return it to the labeled “used” bins on deck. This allows the KAC team to properly sanitize all pool equipment.

According to the CDC, there is no evidence that Covid-19 can be transmitted through properly treated and maintained water.  The KAC checks the water chemistry hourly, and guests may review this information upon request.

At this time, the KAC plans to open the warm pool and new outdoor lap pool for lap swim and individual water exercise on June 1. Swim team practice and aerobics classes are projected to resume in mid-June.

To learn more about the Kingsport Aquatic Center, please visit swimkingsport.com or call 423-343-9758.

KPD e-News Release: Kingsport Police Department Honoring Fallen Officers During National Police Week

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Kingsport Police Department

David Quillin, Chief of Police

200 Shelby Street • Kingsport, TN 37660

• www.KingsportPDBlog.com

NEWS RELEASE
SUBJECT: Kingsport Police Department Honoring Fallen Officers During National Police Week
DATE: May 13, 2020
GENERAL NARRATIVE
In 1962, President John F. Kennedy proclaimed May 15th as National Peace Officers Memorial Day and the calendar week in which May 15th falls, as National Police Week. Established by a joint resolution of Congress in 1962, National Police Week pays special recognition to those law enforcement officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty for the safety and protection of others.

This year, National Police Week takes place from May 10 through 16, 2020. Traditionally, the local Fraternal Order of Police (F.O.P.) Burgess-Mills Lodge #11 conducts a Law Enforcement Memorial Service at the Kingsport Justice Center during National Police Week. Unfortunately, due to COVID-19 social distancing guidelines, no service will be able to take place this year.

In remembrance of, and as a tribute to our local fallen officers, as well as all fallen officers throughout the region, state, and nation, a wreath has been placed upon the Kingsport Police Department Law Enforcement Memorial and Eternal Flame, located on the corner of West Market and Clay Streets in Downtown Kingsport. The flags overhead will also fly at half-staff throughout the week.

The local Fraternal Order of Police (F.O.P.) Burgess-Mills Lodge #11 is named in honor of two of the Kingsport Police Department’s Fallen Officers, Patrolman Ira H. Burgess and Patrolman John E. Mills, who were tragically shot and killed in the line of duty in 1950 and 1940 respectively. Information regarding these and all of K.P.D.’s Fallen Officers can be found in the following link:

https://www.KingsportTN.gov/Police-Department/Our-Fallen-Officers/

This year, the names of 307 officers killed in the line of duty will be added to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington D.C. These 307 officers include 135 officers who were killed during 2019, plus 172 officers who died in previous years but whose stories of sacrifice had been lost to history until now. The following inscription is found on the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial:

“This Memorial is dedicated to all Law Enforcement Officers in the United States of America. Inscribed on these walls are the names of those men and women who died in the line of duty. It is not how these officers died that made them heroes. It is how they lived.”

Links to the National Police Week website, the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund website, and the Officer Down Memorial Page are provided below:

http://www.PoliceWeek.org

http://www.NLEOMF.com

https://www.ODMP.org

RELEASING OFFICER
Thomas M. Patton, Public Information Officer

Kingsport Police Department Professional Standards Unit

423-229-9433 (Desk) • 423-224-2786 (FAX)

ThomasMPatton

KPD e-News Release: Serious Crash Investigation Underway on West Stone Drive

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Kingsport Police Department

David Quillin, Chief of Police

200 Shelby Street • Kingsport, TN 37660

http://Police.KingsportTN.gov • www.KingsportPDBlog.com

NEWS RELEASE
SUBJECT: Serious Crash Investigation Underway on West Stone Drive
DATE: May 13, 2020
CASE #: 20-010054
GENERAL NARRATIVE
On May 12, 2020 at approximately 11:20 PM, Kingsport Police Patrol Officers responded to a motor vehicle collision in the 400 block of West Stone Drive in Kingsport. Due to the serious nature of the incident, Crash Reconstructionists with the K.P.D. Traffic Unit have been called to the scene.

Their investigation is just now beginning; therefore, no further details are available for release at this time. Additional information will be shared as it develops, but only at an appropriate point in the investigation. Due to the late hour, an update will likely not be available until sometime the following day at the earliest.

In the meantime, motorists are asked to plan ahead and seek an alternate route, so as to avoid any unnecessary hazards, congestion, or delays. Anyone already in the immediate area is asked to exercise caution, be patient, and obey all traffic instructions for the safety of everyone involved.
RELEASING OFFICER
Thomas M. Patton, Public Information Officer

Kingsport Police Department Professional Standards Unit

423-229-9433 (Desk) • 423-224-2786 (FAX)

ThomasMPatton
Link to: City of Kingsport
City of Kingsport, Tennessee