Council approves council representative and clarifies $100 million pledge for equity restoration task force

The Knoxville City Council voted to appoint a council representative to serve as the city’s liaison and chair on the African American Equity Restoration Task Force and approved an amendment clarifying the administration’s $100 million commitment.

Councilmember Grant moved to amend the resolution’s first whereas clause to replace language describing a “$100 million financial commitment by the administration” with wording that specifies a $100 million commitment to be applied as supportive grants totaling no less than $100 million; the amendment was seconded and carried by voice vote. Council then approved the resolution as amended.

Councilmember Parker explained the measure arose after a review of earlier resolutions creating the task force and noted that after the previous council representative’s term ended, the council lacked a standing representative. Councilmembers discussed bylaws and term limits: the task force members serve three-year terms, and members present at the meeting — including Teneisha Baker Fitzgerald, Deborah Porter and Pastor/Rev. Vincent Jones — were invited to answer questions.

Grant said that if he becomes chair he intends to review the task force bylaws and work with current members to ensure continuity. Councilmember Adams urged that outgoing and incoming leaders be consulted to ensure transfer of institutional knowledge.

The Council approved the amended resolution by voice vote. The task force’s leadership transition and any bylaw updates will be handled consistent with the resolution’s direction and the task force’s existing governance documents.

The motion and amendment were discussed in public session and carried. The Council did not provide a roll-call tally in the record beyond the voice vote that approved the amendment and the final resolution.