Knoxville City Council approved an annual contract with River Sports Outfitters Inc. to provide professional services at Augusta Quarry for up to $168,200 and discussed operational rules aimed at safety and litter reduction as the quarry prepares to open.

City staff said capital improvements underwritten by partners — including new restrooms, changing areas and other site upgrades funded through philanthropy and capital investments — will allow the quarry to open to the public during the Fourth of July weekend. The administration also announced that Ben Epperson will serve as site coordinator.

Council and staff described the policy decisions that will guide the quarry’s first season: access will remain free; life jackets (personal flotation devices) will be provided at no cost; visitors may bring personal kayaks and paddleboards; City-contracted rentals will include paddle boards, inflatable tubes and other approved devices; and the city will prohibit single-use, low-quality inflatable toys (examples supplied by staff: thin ‘‘party’’ inflatables and foam noodles) because those items are prone to damage, are frequently abandoned and create litter and safety problems.

Council members pressed the administration on fairness and enforcement. Council member Parker asked whether the prohibition on certain floatables might be unevenly enforced; staff said the first-year rules are focused on safety and litter prevention, that the city will publish clear guidance on allowed items, and that rules may be revisited after the inaugural season. Vice Mayor Smith confirmed the quarry will remain free and said free life jackets and lower-cost rentals will reduce economic barriers.

Votes and outcome: Council approved the River Sports Outfitters contract and the operational approach for the quarry. The meeting record shows the motion carried (transcript recorded "Motion carries, 7 0 1" for the quarry item); two council members said they would monitor implementation closely.

Clarifying details: Staff reported that Iams Nature Center and partners led site work and that the contract includes management of rentals, safety monitoring and facility operations. The city emphasized the safety rationale for restricting single-use inflatables and said the list of allowed and disallowed items will be posted online and at the site.

What happens next: The administration will finalize signage and web guidance on allowed equipment, track operations during opening season and report back to council with any recommended adjustments.