Knoxville, October 3, 2025
News Summary
The District 4 city council election in Knoxville features candidates Matthew DeBardelaben and Jeff Talman debating key issues, including a proposed sales tax increase. Mayor Kincannon supports DeBardelaben, while Talman argues for tighter budget management. Both candidates emphasize the need for tenant support and infrastructure improvements while addressing differing views on government intervention. Early voting is scheduled soon, and discussions about city council meeting rules are underway.
Knoxville – The District 4 city council election is set to take place on November 4, 2025. Candidates Matthew DeBardelaben and Jeff Talman participated in a public forum on September 30, 2025, moderated by Bob Thomas at the Fountain City United Methodist Church. The incumbent District 4 council member Lauren Rider, who is term-limited, cannot run for re-election, leaving the seat open for a competitive race.
Mayor Indya Kincannon has publicly endorsed Matthew DeBardelaben, having signed his candidacy petition. As a commercial real estate broker, DeBardelaben aims to “bring creativity” to the city council and advocate for a sales tax increase that will be on the ballot during the election period. On the other hand, Jeff Talman, a mortgage loan officer, opposes this sales tax increase, arguing that the city requires sharper budget management. Talman has characterized the Kincannon administration’s effort to raise sales taxes as an “invaluable” boost to his campaign.
During the forum, DeBardelaben pointed out that one-third of Knoxville residents are renters, expressing concern about the alarming number of weekly eviction notices affecting 120 individuals. He underscored the necessity for government intervention in counseling renters to prevent homelessness. Conversely, Talman called for reduced government involvement, emphasizing the importance of keeping costs low and resisting increased taxes.
DeBardelaben also criticized the city’s lengthy permitting processes, which he claims can delay projects for up to a year. He proposed introducing a “single egress” code for multi-story apartment buildings to help reduce construction expenses. Furthermore, Talman noted that the city has adopted federal policies from President Biden regarding climate change mitigation efforts.
Despite their differing views on larger issues, both candidates agreed on the need for improvements to biking infrastructure and sidewalks around local parks and schools. They voiced common ground against intensified enforcement involving undocumented migrants, with Talman asserting that the responsibility for removal does not fall on the city.
Both candidates have successfully raised approximately $13,000 for their respective campaigns. As part of the forum’s unique atmosphere, Talman presented DeBardelaben with a book titled “Born Fighting: How the Scots-Irish Shaped America,” and both candidates wore identifying tags during the event.
Early voting for the District 4 city council election will take place from October 15 to October 30, 2025. In related news, the Knoxville City Council will implement new meeting rules starting October 14, requiring the mayor to provide agenda documents a week in advance. Additionally, the upcoming council meetings will allow for more public speakers, although individual speaking time will be limited from five minutes to three minutes. The city council’s recent discussions included the proposed sale of a 13-acre portion of Chilhowee Park, with some members seeking to delay that decision to gather additional public input.
Summary of Candidates’ Key Positions
| Candidate | Position | Campaign Focus | Funding raised |
|---|---|---|---|
| Matthew DeBardelaben | Supportive of sales tax increase | Government involvement, tenant support | $13,000 |
| Jeff Talman | Opposed to sales tax increase | Sharp budget management, reduced government intervention | $13,000 |
FAQ
When is the District 4 city council election scheduled?
The District 4 city council election will take place on November 4, 2025.
Who are the candidates running in the District 4 city council election?
The candidates are Matthew DeBardelaben and Jeff Talman.
What are the candidates’ positions on the proposed sales tax increase?
Matthew DeBardelaben is in favor of the sales tax increase, while Jeff Talman opposes it.
How much funding have the candidates raised for their campaigns?
Both candidates raised approximately $13,000 for their campaigns.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Dr. Michaela Barnett Announces Candidacy for Congress
Knoxville Could Be Reconnected by Passenger Rail Under New Federal Proposal
Revised Agreement for Chilhowee Park Development in Knoxville
Knox County Leaders Advance New Development Ordinance
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Additional Resources
- Knox News: Knoxville City Council Forum
- WATE: Knoxville City Council Withdraws Vote
- Knox News: Knoxville Tightens Time Allotted for Speakers
- Wikipedia: Knoxville, Tennessee
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Knoxville
Author: STAFF HERE KNOXVILLE WRITER
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