Community Corner

🌱 Patch AM: What Chattanooga’s new recycling plan could mean for Orange Grove workers

Also check out The Essentials at Farm to Fork on the Chattanooga Patch calendar

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Thursday December 18th Patch AM
Thursday December 18th Patch AM (Patch graphic)

Hi Chattanooga! We have the latest buzz right here. Let's keep you in the loop and get this morning started right! ☕️️

In today's newsletter:

  • What Chattanooga’s new recycling plan could mean for Orange Grove workers
  • Why did leaders delay splitting Chattanooga and Hamilton County planning boards?
  • How Angel Tree gifts are easing tough choices for Chattanooga families

Also on today's calendar: The Essentials at Farm to Fork and 5 more events.

Find out what's happening in Chattanoogafor free with the latest updates from Patch.

Today's riddle: My brother swallowed a box of firecrackers. - Is he all right now? 🤔 (Answer below!)

Weather forecast:

Find out what's happening in Chattanoogafor free with the latest updates from Patch.

  • Thursday: Rain and a thunderstorm, with a high of 57 and low of 38 degrees.
  • Friday: Mostly sunny, temps: high: 49, low: 29.
  • Saturday: Sunny and not as cool, with a high of 58 and low of 42 degrees.

📰 News we're reading

1. Chattanooga's shift in recycling leaves Orange Grove workers uncertain about future roles (newschannel9.com) — Chattanooga is shifting how it manages recycling centers, a move that could end a 30-year contract with Orange Grove Center and cost 26 workers with intellectual and developmental disabilities their jobs. City officials say they’re trying to use taxpayer dollars more efficiently, while Orange Grove and families worry about losing meaningful employment opportunities and hope to rebid next year.
   

2. Chattanooga-Hamilton County RPA separation delayed until March amid public outcry (newschannel9.com) — Hamilton County leaders have delayed until March 2026 a proposal to separate the county planning commission from the Chattanooga Planning Commission, despite residents urging immediate action on growth and safety concerns in unincorporated areas. The Chattanooga-Hamilton County Regional Planning Commission will continue handling zoning recommendations for Chattanooga and nearby towns while commissioners study legal questions and potential impacts on quality of life.
   

3. The Salvation Army distributes Angel Tree Gifts in Chattanooga (wdef.com) — Families across Chattanooga are receiving Angel Tree gifts this week as the Salvation Army’s local chapters distribute toys and essential items through a drive-through event. Organizers say strong community support is helping parents and seniors avoid choosing between Christmas presents and basic needs like diapers, food, rent, and electricity.
   

4. Red Bank breaks ground on Godsey Ridge Trail (timesfreepress.com) — Red Bank is building its first fully city-owned trail, the Godsey Ridge Trail, with a $400,000 state grant and hopes to open the first phase by April. The project complements nearby Chattanooga-area trail systems like Stringer’s Ridge and Walden’s Ridge, adding beginner-friendly options and future sidewalks, crosswalks, and parking to improve park access for local residents and students.
   

📸 Around Chattanooga

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🗓 Upcoming Events in Chattanooga

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💬 Chatter

What your neighbors are talking about on social media

  • I saw Ocoee Leather at the Mistletoe Market, and I fell in love with the dragon bags!
    But he didn't have them in purple! Heartbreaking- Until he offered to do a commission for me! The Pokémon bag I used to carry around was starting to… (Nextdoor Bella Vista)
  • Please share & repost to help reunite this stray dog!
    FOUND on December 16, 2025 in Red Bank, TN 37415 near Dayton boulevard Sharing for a neighbor. For the latest information or to contact the finder,… (Nextdoor Fairfax Heights)
  • Wal-Mart posted a job opening for Stocking Team Associate in Chattanooga. Apply here.
  • ABM Industries posted a job opening for Hamilton County School Cleaner - Hixson - No Experience Required in Chattanooga. Apply here. You can search for other jobs near Chattanooga here.

Ok Chattanooga! So now you're in the loop about what's happening today. Thanks for reading, and see you in your inbox next time! Oh -- and if you like what you're reading, invite a friend to Patch AM!

-- The Patch AM Team

P.S. The answer to today's riddle: I don’t know. I haven’t heard the last report.
Got a good riddle for PatchAM? Send it to us!

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