🌱 Free Tree Program Renewal + Online Driver's Test + Debris Removal

Happy Thursday, neighbors! Let's get you all caught up on what's happening locally to start today off on an informed note.

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First, today's weather:

Clouds and sun, hot and humid. High: 93 Low: 69.

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Here are the top three stories today in Chattanooga:

1. Chattanooga's free tree program has gotten renewed funding through the end of the year. Trees planted through the Growing Resilient Neighborhoods program can help the environment and improve property values. The resolution was passed unanimously by the Chattanooga City Council and will provide $20,000 to the project. (Chattanooga Times Free Press)
2. The state of Tennessee will now allow teenagers to take the written portion of the driver's license tests online. This initiative is designed to alleviate long waits at the Driver Service Centers. The online program has safeguards in place to prevent cheating, and will not replace any portion of the physical road test. (News Channel 5 Nashville)
3. If you're looking for a new home, exploring local open houses is a great way to get a feel for a space. Not sure where to start? Here are two upcoming open houses in the Chattanooga area. Visit Patch for more details. (Chattanooga Patch)

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Today in Chattanooga:

• STVR Focus Group - Homeowners Associations and Residents At Bessie Smith Cultural Center And Chattanooga African American Museum (6:00 PM)
• BroJob At The Dark Roast (7:00 PM)

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From my notebook:

• Six water samples at Hamilton County Schools tested above the state action levels for lead. With this concerning discovery, the districts are starting a plan of action to fix this problem. (Chattanooga Times Free Press)
• Repair work is set to begin soon at a county park used to hold tornado debris. After multiple concerns were raised to the Hamilton County Commissioners about the state of the fields, the project is being set in motion to fix them up so that kids will have a space to play again. (WTVC)

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That's it for today. See you all tomorrow for another update!

— Danielle Fallon

About me: Danielle Fallon is a senior writer with content creation agency Lightning Media Partners and assists Patch.com with community newsletter curation. Danielle also holds a Master's Degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders and works part-time as a pediatric speech therapist.