2025 PRIMARY Knoxville City Council District 6 Choose 1
District 6
Biographical Information
Mailing Address
2444 Martin Luther King Jr. Ave
Knoxville, TN 37915
Knoxville, TN 37915
Campaign Phone
(865)454-5478
Campaign Email
charleskncitycouncil6thdist@gmail.com
Why are you running for Knoxville City Council?
I remember when the 6th District was a thriving community that was open for business, supported its residents, and was one where neighbors looked after the well-being of each other. The 6th District can be that shining star again, but we all have to join in together to accomplish this goal. I am running for the 6th District City Council because I feel I'm the best representative to bring back Economic Opportunity and safety. I have lived and worked in the 6th District for over four decades. I have a deep love for our community and a strong desire to bring back Economic Opportunity to help redevelop our community. I am a strong supporter of the downtown area. I love the baseball field, support the Smokies stadium as well as all business
In your opinion, what are the biggest challenges facing the City of Knoxville at this time?
The city of Knoxville is currently facing significant challenges, particularly with the growing homeless population in the 6th District. I strongly advocate for campaigning to the state of Tennessee for the establishment of a facility similar to Lakeshore to address the needs of individuals with mental health issues. Our community has been hindered for years by the closure of Lakeshore, and there is still a pressing need for a facility that can support troubled veterans and others facing mental health challenges. The nearest facility to address these mental health needs is located in Chattanooga, Tennessee. I have come to understand how critical it is to support the mentally displaced individuals within our homeless population.
What will you do to positively impact transportation for the people of Knoxville?
Many residents in my district rely heavily on Knoxville Area Transit (KAT) for commuting to work, shopping, school, and other essential activities. To positively impact transportation, I have already scheduled a meeting with KAT Bus managers and staff. My goal is to gain a comprehensive understanding of the current bus system's operations and to identify specific areas where improvements are needed to better serve our growing transportation needs.
What is your opinion about the City of Knoxville’s proposed 0.5% sales tax increase?
I am 100% against the proposed 0.5% sales tax increase that the city council recently voted to place on the ballot. While I understand the proposed projects for this increase include sidewalks, paving, and affordable housing, I believe our city's budget, which is around $600 million, should be managed in a more streamlined fashion. Our community is largely composed of the baby boomer generation, who simply cannot afford an additional sales tax increase. Furthermore, this governing body recently implemented a property tax increase. I believe the city should have requested sufficient funds for proposed management at that time. My firm belief is that more taxes will not solve everything.
What are your views on Knoxville’s current housing strategy, and do you think any changes to that strategy are needed?
The city plans to create 6,000 to 8,000 new housing units by 2029, new construction and preserving existing affordable housing. It has invested over $40 million in affordable housing and leveraging $600 million in public and private investments. The city is facing the challenge of a limited amount of undeveloped land within the city relying on vacant lots for new construction.
In order to provide affordable housing for working class families, the city will need to work more with private developers, while streamlining the permitting process that is a hindrance to producing more affordable housing.
Biographical Information
Mailing Address
P.O. Box 3446
Knoxville, TN 37927
Knoxville, TN 37927
Campaign Phone
8653844206
Campaign Email
grantforknoxville@gmail.com
Campaign Website
http://denzelgrant4knox.com
Facebook Page
Denzel Grant For City Council
Why are you running for Knoxville City Council?
I’m running because I believe in what we can build together. Which is a safer, stronger, and more united District 6 and City of Knoxville, TN. Born and raised in East Knoxville in Austin Homes, I’ve lived the struggles and the strength of my community. As a veteran, father, and founder of Turn Up Knox, I’ve fought to reduce violence, uplift youth, and bring hope where it’s needed most. I’m committed to affordable housing for all income levels, and real equity for East Knoxville’s longtime residents. This isn’t about politics for me—it’s about people and bringing back principles. I’m asking for your trust so I can serve with integrity, heart, and boots on the ground. I want to bring generations together to build what's next for District 6.
In your opinion, what are the biggest challenges facing the City of Knoxville at this time?
Housing should be a foundation—not a burden. But in Knoxville, far too many families are being pushed to the edge. The median home price is nearing $384,000, and affordable housing makes up only about 10% of what’s available. Veterans make up close to 30% of our city’s homeless population. That’s unacceptable. We need to expand housing options for working families—so teachers, barbers, caregivers, veterans, and everyday people can stay in the communities they’ve helped build. We must invest in home repairs and preservation so our elders aren’t displaced from the homes they’ve spent decades in. And we need to increase access to rental assistance, homebuyer programs, and underutilized resources because equity starts with access.
What will you do to positively impact transportation for the people of Knoxville?
To positively impact transportation in Knoxville, I’ll push to expand bus routes deeper into neighborhoods. Especially in underserved areas so that elderly residents and others with mobility challenges don’t have to walk 3-4 blocks just to catch a ride. Reliable transportation should meet people where they are, not be another barrier. I’ll also advocate for micro-transit options—on-demand, flexible transit services that cities like Birmingham, AL have successfully implemented to connect residents in real time to jobs, healthcare, and daily needs. Access helps with equity. We need a transportation system that truly serves our residents—whether you’re a senior going to the store, a student heading to school or a parent commuting to work.
What is your opinion about the City of Knoxville’s proposed 0.5% sales tax increase?
I will start off by saying I’m glad that voters may have the opportunity to decide on the proposed 0.5% sales tax increase—if the current City Council chooses to place it on the ballot. Over the last three weeks, I’ve had conversations with a few current council members and closely followed what’s been shared with the public. It’s clear that there’s still a lot that needs to be clarified. This proposal raises important questions, and residents deserve transparency, safeguards and a full understanding of where the funds would go before November. If I’m elected, I’ll do my absolute best to ensure that the priorities of the people I represent are heard and make sure their voices shape how decisions like this are made.
What are your views on Knoxville’s current housing strategy, and do you think any changes to that strategy are needed?
Our current housing strategy I feel means will and has its benefits but it definitely needs bold updates. We must expand middle housing with single family homes, duplexes, triplexes etc.. We can remove barriers like density caps, outdated zoning, and slow permitting. Cities like Chattanooga and Austin, TX are leading the way by building more housing for all income levels. It’s simple: when you increase supply, prices stabilize. We also need to rethink hidden cost drivers like the Qualified Local Provider requirement. Housing is about equity, stability, and safety. I’ll support policies that increase options, reduce barriers, and make it easier for families and veterans to live where they work.
Biographical Information
Why are you running for Knoxville City Council?
Candidate has not yet responded.
In your opinion, what are the biggest challenges facing the City of Knoxville at this time?
Candidate has not yet responded.
What will you do to positively impact transportation for the people of Knoxville?
Candidate has not yet responded.
What is your opinion about the City of Knoxville’s proposed 0.5% sales tax increase?
Candidate has not yet responded.
What are your views on Knoxville’s current housing strategy, and do you think any changes to that strategy are needed?
Candidate has not yet responded.
Biographical Information
Why are you running for Knoxville City Council?
Candidate has not yet responded.
In your opinion, what are the biggest challenges facing the City of Knoxville at this time?
Candidate has not yet responded.
What will you do to positively impact transportation for the people of Knoxville?
Candidate has not yet responded.
What is your opinion about the City of Knoxville’s proposed 0.5% sales tax increase?
Candidate has not yet responded.
What are your views on Knoxville’s current housing strategy, and do you think any changes to that strategy are needed?
Candidate has not yet responded.
Biographical Information
Why are you running for Knoxville City Council?
Candidate has not yet responded.
In your opinion, what are the biggest challenges facing the City of Knoxville at this time?
Candidate has not yet responded.
What will you do to positively impact transportation for the people of Knoxville?
Candidate has not yet responded.
What is your opinion about the City of Knoxville’s proposed 0.5% sales tax increase?
Candidate has not yet responded.
What are your views on Knoxville’s current housing strategy, and do you think any changes to that strategy are needed?
Candidate has not yet responded.