Civics 101: City of Chattanooga

Join us for an in-depth look at how the City of Chattanooga government operates. This class will cover key topics such as the purpose and role of City Council, zoning regulations (including Short-Term Vacation Rentals), and the use of tax incentives. We’ll also explore the connections between city, county, and state governments. The session will conclude with a Q&A, giving you the opportunity to ask questions and engage in discussion.

This class is non-partisan and for informational purposes only, and brought to you in partnership with the League of Women Voters Chattanooga and The Chattery.

About the instructor:

Councilwoman Raquetta Dotley, a proud Chattanooga native and Brainerd High School alumna, earned her undergraduate degree from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga and a Master's degree from Tennessee Temple University’s Temple Baptist Seminary. In 2021, she made history as the first African American woman elected to the City of Chattanooga Council for District 7 and subsequently became the first African American woman to serve as City Council Chairperson. 

Raquetta was licensed as a minister in 2011 and ordained in 2013. She currently serves at the  Westside Church, where she is dedicated to serving God with excellence in every role she undertakes.

Presently, Raquetta serves as the Executive Director of the Net Resource Foundation and the Administrator for Westside Missionary Baptist Church. She is a strong advocate for civic engagement, emphasizing that every individual has a role to play through voting, participating in policy discussions, and supporting their community. 

Host or Publisher The Chattery