Commissioner Terri Holmes

City Planning

Greetings neighbors! I’m Terri Holmes, and I’m excited to introduce myself as the new Commissioner of Red Bank. I’ve called this wonderful town home for 20 years and was a teacher at Red Bank Middle School from 2006 to 2021. It’s a true honor for me to serve our community, and I’m eager to work together to plan and create a bright future that we can all enjoy and take pride in. Let’s make Red Bank an even better place to live!

Planning

“Failure to plan is planning to fail”. The City of Red Bank is in the process of drafting plans, approving plans, and implementing plans… all with an eye on the City of Red Bank we want in the future. City planning is crucial for a city to thrive. Here are some of the ongoing planning efforts aimed at improving the city and its services.

Planning Groups

Several groups are involved in planning in a city. The City Planner or Manager initiates overall planning efforts and then delegates tasks to various departments in the city; Community Development and Public Works are examples of departments with significant planning responsibilities. The Planning Commission (made up of five representatives recommended by each Commission member) is another group. This group meets to discuss, develop and help implement the plans of the city as well as private developers and residents. They also impact zoning and economic development. Some recommendations are turned into Resolutions and Ordinances that the City Commissioners vote on. Planning is one of my favorite areas to work on in my life. In teaching, I look at the list of standards I will teach and break them down into chunks of knowledge to share with students. I see this in how the city of Red Bank is planning for the present and future. The people serving in these planning groups have a now-and-later mindset that takes into account many scenarios and possibilities.

Capital Improvements Plan

Capital Improvements involve high-value projects to improve buildings, purchase vehicles, major equipment items and structures. This plan will focus on the next twenty years and lay out what funds are needed to purchase or repair items and/or structures. Examples of capital improvements are fleet (vehicle) management, building or repairing structures, and purchasing new firefighter apparatus. Two buildings that I would like to see in the next twenty years are a library and a new Public Works building. A library would provide education, community space, and a technology hub. I love to read and having a space to read and engage with reading-related activities would be an asset to the neighbors in Red Bank. Public works is an unsung hero and has been treated as such with the facilities they currently operate from. This department is like the inside of the walls and appliances in my home. I don’t see what is happening but what happens is vital to my home functioning as I expect. This is the same for a city, without Public Works, the city could not function as we have come to expect and demand.

Park and Recreation Master Plan

The Parks and Rec Master Plan was approved in 2024 and outlines what improvements and changes will take place concerning parks in the city and improved recreation. Examples are improving the dog parks, adding play features to parks, and possibly adding new parks in various parts of the city. The Parks and Recreation Master Plan also outlines how grants, along with other revenue, can fund and maintain our Parks and Recreation programs. Personally, being outdoors feeds my soul. The fresh air, sunshine, light breeze, and trees make me feel connected to the earth and other humans. I encourage you to make some time and go outside to enjoy a park or a trail. Also, take a few minutes to envision the former Middle School property on Dayton Blvd or additions to the Traffic Bicycle Garden near Fire Station #2 (4851 Dayton Blvd) in the north of town. There is potential for outdoor spaces for all ages to enjoy. My vision includes benches and walking trails for seasoned citizens and play areas for toddlers to preteens.

Rightsizing Dayton Blvd Design Plan

Dayton Boulevard has a rich history as a major route connecting Chattanooga to the North. While its role has evolved, it’s still often used and treated like a high-speed throughway. Based on expert recommendations, the City of Red Bank is exploring ways to reimagine the Boulevard with a more modern, multi-modal design that better serves all users. One such recommendation is to transition the Boulevard from five lanes to three where practicable, creating a safer and more accessible roadway for drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists alike.

Understandably, change can bring concerns. I’ve heard feedback about potential traffic delays or slower travel times, and I’ll admit, I had some of those same thoughts at first. But as I’ve learned more, I’ve realized that prioritizing safety and creating a more balanced, community-focused street is worth thoughtful consideration. We all benefit from streets that are safer, calmer, and more welcoming for everyone.

This project is currently in the design phase, and due to budget constraints, it will be implemented in stages. An estimated timeline is being developed, and we look forward to keeping the community informed as planning progresses.

Community Involvement

As Commissioners, we genuinely value input from our citizens regarding ongoing projects, completed initiatives, and future planning efforts. One example is the Red Bank City pool, a well-loved facility that has served our community for over 63 years. Thanks to the dedicated efforts of the Pool Advisory Committee and our Public Works staff over the decades it has remained operational beyond its expected lifespan. However, it’s time to begin thoughtful conversations about restoring or replacing the pool to ensure it continues to serve future generations. As with any project, securing funding is a critical piece of the puzzle. Together, as a community, we can explore the possibilities and determine what steps we’re willing to take to provide a safe, welcoming space for our children and grandchildren to swim, connect, and thrive for years to come.

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The City of Red Bank is thrilled to announce the celebration of its 70th anniversary this summer. In honor of the celebration, the city will be hosting a community-wide event on Saturday, June 21st, to showcase the people, organizations, and services that make Red Bank a great place to live, work, and connect.

The 70th Anniversary event will take place from 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM at the Red Bank City Park, located at 3817 Redding Road. The focus of the event will be on community engagement - providing a space for city departments, nonprofits, community organizations, churches, and schools to share how their organization contributes and serves Red Bank as well as providing fun interactive booths with residents in a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere.

Guests can look forward to live entertainment throughout the day. John Benjamin Davis, a multi-instrumentalist singer-songwriter, will perform from noon until 1:30 PM (johnbenjamindavis.com). Randy Steele, an award-winning banjo-picking singer-songwriter, will take the stage from 1:30 until 3:30 PM (randysteelemusic.com). The day will conclude with a performance by “In the Company of Wolves,” a singer/songwriter duo that intertwines their love for music with a passion for story-telling, from 3:30 until 5:00 PM (bethechangeyi.com).

During the event, White Oak Bicycle Coop will be giving away bicycles. Several food trucks will be available, serving a variety of meals, along with ice-cold beer for guests aged 21 and over. The city will also provide special 70th Anniversary swag for attendees.

Event Details
Date: Saturday, June 21, 2025
Time: 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Location: Red Bank City Park

For additional information, contact Jeffrey Grabe at jgrabe@redbanktn.gov or call 423-681-3077.

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Red Bank Police Department: Pedestrian Safety.

Know the Law: Pedestrian Safety in Tennessee

No matter how you get around—walking, biking, riding the bus, or driving—we all become pedestrians at some point. In Tennessee, pedestrians include anyone walking or using a wheelchair, and they have the legal right to travel on most roads, except interstates.

To keep everyone safe, Tennessee law outlines the rights and responsibilities of both drivers and pedestrians.

Drivers: Your Responsibility

Drivers must protect pedestrians by staying alert and yielding the right-of-way when required. According to Tennessee Code Annotated (TCA), drivers must:

Yield to pedestrians in marked crosswalks, alleyways, and driveways
Stop for pedestrians in school zones at both marked and unmarked crosswalks
Drive at safe speeds and stay fully focused while operating the vehicle
Avoid using hand-held devices while driving
Never pass a vehicle that has already stopped at a crosswalk

Pedestrians: Your Duties

Pedestrians must protect themselves by staying alert and being aware of their surroundings. They should:

Use sidewalks if available
Walk facing traffic if no sidewalk exists
Yield to vehicles when crossing outside a crosswalk

Pedestrians: Your Duties

Pedestrians must protect themselves by staying alert and being aware of their surroundings. They should:

Use sidewalks if available
Walk facing traffic if no sidewalk exists
Yield to vehicles when crossing outside a crosswalk

Crossing Safely in Red Bank- 6 Mid-Block Crosswalks

Our community has six marked crosswalks that are not at intersections. These “mid-block crosswalks” are designed to help people cross where intersections are too far apart or not convenient. These crossings are legal, safe, and critical for walkability.

Tips for using mid-block crosswalks safely:

Press the button to turn on flashing lights on crosswalk sign
Be visible – make eye contact with drivers before crossing
Stop and look both ways before stepping into the crosswalk
Wait for traffic to yield before entering the road
Use caution even if drivers slow down
At night or in low light, wear bright or reflective clothing

For drivers:

Stay alert for pedestrians at all marked crosswalks
Never pass another vehicle that’s stopped at a crosswalk—someone may be crossing
Expect pedestrians in areas with signage or curb ramps, even mid-block

Red Bank crosswalk locations on Dayton Blvd

3300 block by United States Postal Office

3600 block by Plaza North and Red Bank Church of Christ

3800 block by Red Bank City Park

4300 block by Ashbrook Office Centre

4500 block by Dayton Manor Apartments

Stay Safe, Stay Aware

We all share the roads. By knowing the laws and showing care and caution—whether you’re behind the wheel or on foot—we can keep Tennessee’s streets safe for everyone.

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Red Bank Fire Department: Water Safety Tips.

Stay Safe While Enjoying the Water

Swimming is one of life’s greatest pleasures. It offers a fun way to stay fit, cool off during hot weather, and bond with family and friends. However, water can also be dangerous if the right precautions aren’t taken. Stay water-smart and keep your loved ones safe by following these important tips:

Top Water Safety Tips

1. Learn to Swim
The most effective way to stay safe around water is to learn how to swim. This applies to both adults and children. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends swimming lessons for children over the age of 1, provided they are emotionally and developmentally ready.

2. Always Supervise Children
Never leave children unattended near water—not even for a moment. If your child is in the water, you should be, too. Drowning can happen in just 1–2 inches of water. Always maintain constant, focused supervision, and use barriers like pool fencing for added protection, even if children know how to swim.

3. Use Life Jackets
Weak or non-swimmers should always wear a properly fitted life jacket or personal flotation device (PFD). Many public pools provide them free of charge. Life vests help keep the head above water and the body in a safe, face-up position. Remember: inflatable toys and floaties are not substitutes for life vests. Make sure children’s life vests have leg straps and extra neck support when needed.

4. Read and Follow All Posted Signs
Always obey pool and water area safety rules. Teach kids that water safety is everyone’s personal responsibility.

5. Never Swim Alone
Always swim with a buddy. Children should be taught never to enter the water without a companion or adult supervision.

6. Avoid Alcohol
Don’t drink alcohol before or during swimming, boating, or supervising children near water. Alcohol impairs judgment, coordination, and reaction time. Teens should be taught about the dangers of alcohol use around water.

7. Don’t Swallow the Water
Teach kids to avoid drinking pool or lake water. Also, to reduce the risk of choking, never chew gum or eat while swimming or playing in the water.

8. Beware of the “Too’s”
Avoid becoming too tired, too cold, too far from safety, exposed to too much sun, or doing too much strenuous activity. Don’t overestimate your swimming ability—know your limits and take breaks as needed.

9. Watch the Weather
Keep an eye on local weather conditions. At the first sign of thunder or lightning, get out of the water immediately. Don’t take risks with bad weather.

10. Use Sunscreen
Apply a water-resistant sunscreen to all exposed skin before going outside, and reapply regularly—especially after swimming. Hats, visors, and lightweight clothing also help protect against sunburn and overexposure.

11. Use Plastic Swim Diapers
If swimming with infants or toddlers, use plastic swim diapers as required by most pools. Always use designated, sanitary changing areas.

Whether you’re at home, at the pool, or by the ocean, following these safety tips helps ensure a fun and safe experience for everyone. Enjoy the water—safely!

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City of Red Bank Honors Public Works Team During National Public Works Week

Red Bank, TN – May 22, 2025 – The City of Red Bank proudly joined communities across the nation in celebrating National Public Works Week, held from May 18-24, 2025, to recognize the dedication and hard work of public works professionals. Sponsored annually by the American Public Works Association (APWA), the week highlights the essential services that keep cities running smoothly.

The Red Bank Public Works Department plays a vital role in maintaining the city's infrastructure, overseeing 72 miles of roads and 16 signalized intersections, ensuring stormwater management to prevent flooding, and maintaining more than three dozen public facilities, including parks. The department also facilitates the collection and processing of over 5,700 tons of household waste, brush, and leaves annually, administers Capital Improvement Programs and Fleet Services for all municipal departments, and leads beloved community events such as the Christmas Parade and Jubilee celebrations.

Throughout the week, the City of Red Bank honored its dedicated Public Works professionals with a series of celebratory events. The festivities began with an employee banquet, where outstanding staff members were recognized for their contributions. Midweek, employees gathered for a lunch-time pizza party, fostering camaraderie among the team, while the celebrations concluded with a cookout, giving staff an opportunity to relax and reflect on their impact on the community.

At the City Commission meeting on May 20, 2025, the Mayor, Vice-Mayor, and elected commissioners unanimously passed a resolution proclaiming May 18-24 as Public Works Week. In the proclamation, city leaders affirmed their appreciation, stating, “Our Public Works professionals are the backbone of Red Bank. Their commitment ensures that our roads, parks, and essential services function seamlessly. National Public Works Week gives us a chance to spotlight their contributions and thank them for their tireless efforts.”

As Red Bank closes out National Public Works Week, the city remains deeply grateful for the dedicated individuals who keep the community safe, clean, and thriving.

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Highlighting Red Bank's Non-Profit: PORCH

PORCH Communities fights food insecurity by creating sustainable hunger relief programs at the local level. Started in 2010 in Chapel Hill, NC, PORCH has grown into a repeatable model of monthly neighborhood food drives and fresh produce distribution supplying food pantries, schools, and community programs across the country. PORCH’s volunteer network, now in 550 neighborhoods across 10 states, has contributed more than $12 million dollars in hunger relief.

The Mission

PORCH Communities mobilizes and supports local volunteers to create sustainable hunger relief programs.

Programs

PORCH for Pantries: Local pantries are a critical lifeline for families who struggle to put food on the table. Each month volunteer Neighborhood Coordinators collect non-perishable items from nearby porches and deliver them to local pantries, schools and community programs.

PORCH Fresh: Convenient and affordable access to fresh foods is critical to child development and disease prevention for all ages. This program supplements the non-perishable goods widely available at pantries by providing fresh food such as milk, eggs, meat, fruits and vegetables.

PORCH for Schools: No child should struggle to focus in school because they are hungry, and teachers should not have to spend their own personal funds to buy snacks for their students. That’s why PORCH partners with local businesses and individuals to sponsor a healthy snack program for children in public schools and after-school programs.

PORCH Student Ambassadors Program: PORCH makes it easy for any student to fight hunger in their hometown or college community. With just a 6-month commitment, PORCH Student Ambassadors create an immediate impact on hunger relief and gain an experience that can inspire lifelong volunteerism.

PORCH Chattanooga: PORCH Chattanooga is an all-volunteer hunger relief organization. They collect food and cash donations through monthly neighborhood food drives and deliver the contributions to food pantries who provide emergency food to individuals and families in our area.

Chattanooga’s chapter, which launched in March of 2024, is currently seeking volunteers and food pantries to partner with.

Volunteering is as simple as signing up to leave a bag of food on your porch each month, collecting food from the porches, or delivering the food to the local food pantry — a commitment that takes three hours a month.

For information regarding PORCH Chattanooga:

Email: chattanooga@porchcommunities.org

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PORCHChattanooga/ 

or more information, please contact PORCH, Inc. at:

Address: 104R NC Hwy 54 West, Ste 247. Carrboro, NC 27510

Phone: 919.812.3949

Email:  info@porchcommunities.org

Website: https://porchcommunities.org/ 