Bristol Development News
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Bristol Tennessee Called City Council Meeting - June 16th, 2026
Published: Jun 16, 2026
Bristol City Council Moves to Negotiate Contract with Sole City Manager Candidate, Matt Slegal
The Bristol City Council discussed the process for selecting a new city manager, with a single candidate, Mr. Matt Slegal, remaining for consideration. The application process received over 50 applications, followed by public work sessions, virtual interviews, and in-person interviews. Recent state legislation allows for more flexibility in the interview process. Council members emphasized the importance of integrity, ethics, and professional management, referencing the ICMA code of ethics. Community and business leaders have expressed support for Mr. Slegal due to his local ties, collaborative approach, and management experience. The council voted to move forward with contract negotiations with Mr. Slegal, with the contract to be presented for approval on July 7th. Interim City Manager Brian Ramsey also provided brief remarks, looking forward to working with Mr. Slegal.
Bristol City Council Declares Intent to Reimburse for Municipal Projects Funded by Future Debt
The Bristol City Council approved Resolution 26-75, declaring the city's intent to reimburse itself for expenditures related to municipal projects, not exceeding $10 million, with proceeds from future bonds or debt obligations. This resolution allows for reimbursement of capital expenditures, including facilities improvements and operating vehicles/equipment, if debt is issued within the next six months. Debt financing was recommended by financial advisors to fund capital items over the life of assets rather than depleting cash reserves. Council expressed that borrowing funds can be a responsible fiscal strategy. The proposed distribution of proceeds in FY27 was presented, contingent on the debt issuance.
Bristol City Council Approves FY27 Budget and Tax Rate, Amends FY26 Budget
The Bristol City Council held a public hearing and subsequent vote on Ordinance 26-3, which adopts the annual budget and tax rate for the fiscal year July 1, 2026, to June 30, 2027. The fiscal year 2027 budget totals $130,000,000, an increase of 37.4% or $35,635,830 over the fiscal year 2026 budget. This increase includes $35 million for capital project facilities expenditures funded by private contributions. The property tax rate remains at $1.845 per $100 of assessed value. The council also discussed Ordinance 26-4, which amends the appropriation of funds for the fiscal year July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2026. This amendment includes increases for the Chapter 420 fund, the drug fund, the grant fund, the solid waste fund, the general purpose school fund, and the school capital projects fund. Additionally, transfers from the general fund to the drug fund, capital equipment fund, and capital facilities fund were adjusted. Council members acknowledged the hard work involved in creating the budget and expressed hope for continued fiscal responsibility. The ordinance was approved. [cite: 68-128, 138-210, 247-324]
Bristol City Council Approves Workers' Compensation Insurance Change, Securing Over $8,000 in Savings
The Bristol City Council approved Resolution 26-77, authorizing the city to obtain workers' compensation insurance from Key Risk Insurance Company. This change represents a savings of over $8,000 compared to the previous carrier, Public Entity Partners, exceeding anticipated savings. Both quotes were based on a lower deductible, potentially offering further savings. The city had previously stayed with Public Entity Partners due to TCA code provisions allowing them to not go to bid, but quotes were obtained this year. Councilmember Williams recused herself from the vote.
Bristol City Council Approves Agreement for FY27 Federal Transportation Planning Funds
The City Council authorized Resolution 26-76, entering into an agreement with the Commonwealth of Virginia for Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) metropolitan planning funds for the Bristol MPO for fiscal year 2027. This annual agreement provides $54,785.89 in FHWA funds, along with Commonwealth Transportation funds and a local match of $6,848.23, totaling $68,482.35 for transportation planning activities. Councilmember Powers congratulated Mr. Bray on securing the grant, highlighting its importance for transportation studies and community needs.
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The Bristol News archive
Bristol Tennessee Board of Education - June 2026 Meeting
City Council Meeting - June 2, 2026
Bristol Tennessee City Council Meeting - June 2nd, 2026
Bristol Tennessee Board of Education - May 2026 Meeting
Tennessee Online Public School | Class of 2026 Commencement Ceremony
City Council Meeting - May 4, 2026
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