letter to the editor
New ordinance questions raised by ’press reader
The Board of Mayor and Aldermen (BOMA) met Thursday, Nov. 14, and approved on first reading Ordinance 24-21, which aims to replace the existing business license with a new Ordinance Business Registration Program.
Despite an extended meeting, the necessity for this change remains unclear, as several unresolved issues were deferred to the second reading.
This trend of passing ordinance changes on the first reading while still having outstanding issues has become common practice in recent BOMA meetings. This perfunctory approach is concerning; ordinances should not be voted on until all issues are thoroughly addressed.
The purpose of this new ordinance is to identify, aid and support businesses operating within the Town by obtaining reliable information about who is conducting or planning to conduct business and the nature of these businesses.
However, this raises the question: shouldn’t home business owners have the right to decide if they want such aid and support from the Town, Visit Farragut or the Farragut Business Alliance?
Additionally, there was concern raised during the meeting that this could lead to the implementation of a commercial property tax or business tax.
Residents have been assured that any property tax must be voted on by them. Where is this requirement cited in the Charter or Town ordinances?
For more details, watch this part of the BOMA meeting here: https://www.youtube.com/live/4zMlaJEQJk0?si=RA4zNPGLpsVTq1dp&t=753
Kimberie Parks, Farragut
