The Steering Committee of the County Commission of Wilson

County, Tennessee met in regular session on Thursday, January 12, 2012 at

6:45 p.m. in the upstairs Conference Room at the Wilson County

Courthouse in Lebanon, Tennessee. Those members present were

Commissioners Randy Hall, Paul Abercrombie, Jeff Joines, Annette

Stafford, Bernie Ash, Gary Keith, Billy Rowland and Kenneth Reich, being

all the members of the Committee with the exception of Commissioners

Adam Bannach, Fred Weston, Clint Thomas, Mike Justice, Eugene Murray

and Jerry McFarland, who were absent. Also present was County Mayor

Randall Hutto and County Attorney Michael R. Jennings.

Chairman Hall called the meeting to order and determined that a

quorum was present.

The proposed Agenda for the January 23, 2012 County Commission

Meeting was presented. At the request of Mayor Hutto, motion to move

Elections and Appoints on the Agenda after "Communications from the

Chair" and add the Human Resources Director as a quarterly report to

follow the Property Assessor's Report was made by Commissioner

Abercrombie, seconded by Commissioner Marlowe and carried

unanimously.

Motion to approve the Agenda as amended was made by

Chairman Hall, seconded by Commissioner Rowland and carried

unanimously.

Motion to recommend to the County Commission that the March,

2012 meeting be held on the fourth Monday night was made by

Commissioner Ash, seconded by Commissioner Abercrombie and carried

unanimously.

There being no further business to come before the Committee on

motion of Commissioner Abercrombie, seconded by Commissioner

Marlowe, the Committee voted unanimously to adjourn.

The Emergency Management Agency Committee of the County

Commission of Wilson County, Tennessee met in regular session on Wednesday,

January 11, 2012 at 7:00 p.m. in the Conference Room at the Wilson County

Courthouse in Lebanon, Tennessee. Those members present were

Commissioners Bernie Ash, Becky Siever, Wendell Marlowe, Sara Patton, Kenneth

Reich and Clint Thomas, being all the members of the Committee with the

exception of Commissioner Randy Hall, who was absent. Also present was

County Mayor Randall Hutto, Finance Director Aaron Maynard, WEMA Director

John Jewell, WEMA Finance Officer Rick Woodward, WEMA Chief of EMS Brian

Newberry, WEMA Planning Officer Steve Spencer, Commissioner Terry Scruggs

and County Attorney Michael R. Jennings

Chairman Ash called the meeting to order and determined that a

quorum was present.

Motion to approve the minutes of the November 3, 2011 meeting as

printed was made by Commissioner Reich, seconded by Commissioner Marlowe

and carried unanimously.

Chairman Ash turned the meeting over to WEMA Director John Jewell.

Director Jewell asked Steve Spencer, EMA Planner, to give a brief report on his

activities.

Mr. Spencer first reported on the trailer that had been purchased. He

advised the Committee of the use being made of the trailer and that several

uses are scheduled in the future. We are receiving great benefits from this piece

of equipment and it is helping us to educate the public.

Mr. Spencer noted that the other part of the grant which allowed us to

purchase the trailer allowed us to purchase smoke alarms. The Sheriff's

Department has taken about 170 of those and the SCAN network has installed

them in homes of senior citizens. Mr. Spencer has installed about 40. He has

approximately 70 left.

Mr. Spencer advised of the February 7, 2012 "Great American Shake-Out".

This is to call attention to earthquake awareness. Drills will be held on that day

nationwide at 10:15 a.m. CST. He also advised that the week of February 20-24 is

National Severe Weather Awareness Week.

Mr. Spencer discussed the activities of the Local Emergency Planning

Committee (LEPC) and distributed a letter in that regard.

Director Jewell then discussed with the Committee electronic patient care

reporting. Brian Newberry, Chief of EMS, advised the Committee that bids have

been received. The apparent best bidder, if this program is approved, will

provide us $322,000 in equipment and support over a five (5) year period. The

company is "NRG". They are paid a percentage of what they collect. They

have estimated they will make $220,000 over five (5) years. This is a projection

based on billing and payment projections. The only cost to Wilson County will be

the overtime cost for the initial and annual training of our employees. This

program will also allow us to "encrypt" our data and will provide better and

quicker billing. This company can bill within twenty-four (24) hours of the event.

WEMA would like to see any money collected through this program over and

above what is currently being placed in the General Fund be put in a fund to

replace laptops, cots, and other equipment items.

A general discussion was held about the benefits this company can

provide to Wilson County. Chief Newberry and Director Jewell asked the

Committee to think about this and consider acting upon it at its next meeting.

Finance Director Maynard believes there are several reasons we should

consider using this company. It will decrease our liability issues and provide more

and better oversight over billing. Because "time is money" and this company

can do the billing in a faster, more efficient manner, more money should be

collected. This will allow more consistency in billing and may limit the amount of

write-offs that we have each year.

Director Jewell asked the Committee to also be thinking about the need

to raise fuel charges on certain transports and the possibility of imposing fees on

non-transports.

Director Jewell then presented a list of surplus items for the Committee to

consider. The surplus bedding and slat boards would be for surplus destruction.

The microwave ovens would be for surplus sale. Motion to tag these items surplus

as requested by Director Jewell was made by Commissioner Marlowe, seconded

by Commissioner Reich. Commissioner Thomas requested that the proceeds

from the surplus sale be placed into Line Item 719. The motion then carried

unanimously.

Director Jewell then addressed the Committee concerning the most

pressing issue. They will be running out of money in their fuel line item by the end

of this month if adjustments are not made.

Chairman Ash asked Director Jewell to first consider the Budget

Amendment for $1,000. Motion to recommend this Budget Amendment Request

to the Budget Committee was made by Commissioner Reich, seconded by

Commissioner Thomas and canled unanimously.

The Committee then returned to the discussion of the fuel issue. Director

Je ell presented a four (4) page overview of the history of the fuel line item,

money taken from the line item, and how this has created a shortfall over the

years. He noted that WEMA has identified certain line items that will allow for

small line item transfers. Keep in mind we are now working with two separate

budgets, one for WEMA and one for Fire. The total amount of money for both

funds that can be transferred is $54,217.85. However, based upon projections

and past usage, WEMA will still need $30,884 to finish the year.

Director Jewell went over with the Committee all the exhibits that had

been distributed that support the information contained in the four (4) page

overview. He also discussed why WEMA responds to certain calls as they do and

asked if the Committee thinks changes should be made to that response. If so,

he would like to have Committee approval.

After much discussion, Chairman Ash noted that he does not think we

need to change our procedures. He is also not comfortable with going into the

General Fund at this time for an additional $30,000.

Chairman Ash then asked about other line items in the WEMA budget. He

first questioned the "Uniform" line item. It currently shows that no money has

been spent this year. Can we use some of this money? Rick Woodward advised

that this line item is about to be used. Director Jewell advised that when that line

item is used, it is usually for a substantial purchase. Chairman Ash asked if it

could be tapped into for 25 or 50 percent? Rick Woodward responded "not that

much". Chairman Ash then asked if $5,000 was an acceptable figure and Rick

Woodward responded that it would be a "maximum" figure.

Chairman Ash then questioned the Tires and Tubes line item which now

shows only 22% usage. There is about $7,000 left. Rick Woodward noted that 4%

had already been taken from this line item and they did not feel comfortable

with anything else because of the high price of tires for fire engines and

ambulances.

Motion to approve the line item transfers requested by Director Jewell in

his Budget Amendments and address the $30,000 shortfall at a later date was

made by Chairman Ash, seconded by Commissioner Marlowe. Director Jewell

advised that they had made further tweaks to three (3) of the line items but it did

not affect the bottom line figure on the Budget Amendments. The motion then

carried unanimously.

Commissioner Reich related an experience of coming upon an accident

scene in Lebanon and seeing the large number of emergency vehicles that the

City of Lebanon had at the scene. He asked if it is possible to limit the personnel

WEMA sends to calls in Lebanon and Mt. Juliet where their personnel are on the

scene.

Director Jewell advised the Committee that applications for the SAFER

Grant Program will be due soon. Currently, the grant will fund employees for two

(2) full years, and then the full cost reverts to the County. Before WEMA goes to

the work of preparing an application, they would like to know if this Committee is

on board with them making an application. They would like for the Committee

to address this issue sometime within the next few weeks.

There being no further business to come before the Committee on motion

of Commissioner Marlowe, seconded by Commissioner Siever, the Committee

voted unanimously to adjourn.

The Education Committee of the County Commission of Wilson County,

Tennessee met in regular session on Thursday, January 12, 2012 at 6:00 p.m. in the

County Commission meeting room at the Wilson County Courthouse in Lebanon,

Tennessee. Those members present were Commissioners Paul Abercrombie, Stephanie

McDonald, Chad Barnard and Terry Scruggs, being all the members of the Committee

with the exception of Commissioners Annette Stafford, Randy Hall and Jeff Joines, who

were absent due to a joint meeting of the Public Works and Budget Committees at 5:30

p.m. Also present was Director of Schools Mike Davis, Deputy Director of Schools

Mickey Hall, School Board member Bill Robinson and Legal Assistant to the County

Attorney Becky Fox.

In the absence of Chairman Stafford, Vice Chairman Abercrombie called the

meeting to order and determined that a quorum was present.

Motion to approve the minutes of the December 8, 2011 as printed was made by

Commissioner Barnard, seconded by Commissioner Scruggs and carried unanimously.

Director Davis presented School Board Budget Amendment 2012-05. He

explained the need for the budget amendment. Motion to recommend this budget

amendment request to the Budget Committee was made by Commissioner McDonald,

seconded by Commissioner Barnard and carried unanimously.

Director Davis advised the Committee that the last of the secured vestibules have

been installed and are functional.

Director Davis also advised the Committee that the new Lebanon High School is

now 80% complete. He invited all Committee members to the Lebanon High School

open house and presentation of keys on Sunday, July 15, 2012 from 2 to 4 p.m.

Director Davis advised the Committee of a work session scheduled for Saturday,

January 21, 2012 at 8 a.m. to discuss the Cumberland University memorandum of

understanding regarding the old Lebanon High School football field.

There being no further business to come before the Committee on motion of

Commissioner Barnard, seconded by Commissioner Scruggs, the Committee voted

unanimously to adjourn.

The Minutes Committee of the County Commission of Wilson

County, Tennessee was scheduled to meet on Thursday, January 12, 2012

at 6:30 p.m. in the upstairs Conference Room at the Wilson County

Courthouse in Lebanon, Tennessee. Those members present were

Commissioners Paul Abercrombie and Billy Rowland, being all the

members of the Committee with the exception of Commissioners Clint

Thomas, Jerry McFarland and Fred Weston. Also present was County

Attorney Michael R. Jennings.

Chairman Abercrombie recognizing that no quorum was present

announced that no meeting could be held his evening and that a

meeting would be called of the Minutes Committee for a few minutes

prior to the County Commission Meeting on January 23, 2012.

The Public Works Committee and the Budget Committee of the

County Commission of Wilson County, Tennessee met in called joint

session on Thursday, January 12, 2012 at 5:30 p.m. in the upstairs

Conference Room at the Wilson County Courthouse in Lebanon,

Tennessee. Those members of the Public Works Committee present were

Commissioners Gary Keith, Randy Hall, Billy Rowland, Jeff Joines and Sara

Patton, being all the members of the Committee with the exception of

Commissioners Adam Bannach and Fred Weston, who were absent.

Members of the Budget Committee present were County Mayor

Randall Hutto and Commissioners Annette Stafford, Bernie Ash and

Wendell Marlowe, being all the members of the Committee with the

exception of Commissioner Mike Justice, who was absent.

Also present was Finance Director Aaron Maynard, Tourism Director

Ricky Rodriguez, JECDB Director G. C. Hixson, Ward Ag Center Director

Larry Tomlinson, Architect Mike Manous and his associate, and County

Attorney Michael R. Jennings.

Chairman Keith called the Public Works Committee meeting to

order and determined that a quorum was present.

Motion to approve the minutes of the December 8, 2011 meeting as

printed was made by Commissioner Hall, seconded by Commissioner

Rowland and carried unanimously.

Chairman Ash called the Budget Committee to order and

determined that a quorum was present.

The Committee Chairmen then recognized Commissioner Jeff

Joines. He noted the purpose of this joint meeting is to discuss proposed

funding for a multi-purpose event center at the James E. Ward Agricultural

Center. Commissioner Joines introduced Mike Manous. Mr. Manous

presented a slideshow presentation on a proposed multi-purpose event

center. During the presentation, he went over the details of the concept,

the need for the facility, the proposed uses for the facility, the size of the

facility and the utilities necessary for the facility. The proposed location of

the facility would be on the west side of the James E. Ward Agricultural

Center. The City of Lebanon will require a certain amount of paved

parking spaces. It has also been discussed to construct a perimeter road

around the edge of the Ag Center. Mr. Manous noted the proximity of

the Nashville and Eastern Railroad Authority track in the vicinity and the

advantage this can be. He concluded his presentation by noting that this

plan is a vision; if it is determined to proceed there is still a lot of work to

do.

Commissioner Joines advised that the purpose of tonight's meeting

is to discuss a funding source for this center. The Ag Center Management

Committee is asking that this funding source be recommended to the

County Commission to send to the State Legislature. It will take 17 County

Commissioners to approve this and 17 when it returns. The proposal is to

obtain State authorization to levy a Tourism Tax of Three Dollars ($3) per

hotel or motel room in Wilson County.

Tourism Director Ricky Rodriguez addressed the joint meeting. He

advised that there are approximately 1,500 hotel rooms in Wilson County.

He provided a written history of occupancy of these rooms during the last

ten (10) years. He also discussed with the Committees the trend data.

The building proposed will increase the demand for hotel occupancy in

Wilson County.

Commissioner Joines noted that the request is to do the same thing

that Nashville did with the $2.50 fee that they are assessing.

Former Commissioner Rusty Thompson then addressed the

Committees concerning revenue projections. It was noted that the

anticipated cost of this building would be 8-10 Million Dollars. The

projection provides for another 1.5 Million Dollars for fixtures, equipment,

etc. for a total cost of 11.5 Million Dollars.

Mr. Thompson went over the rental income that is anticipated from

the new building. He noted the hotel occupancy figures are conservative

as an occupancy rate of 50% has been estimated. Last year the

occupancy rate in Wilson County was 56%. He advised that the revenue

would be structured in such a way that the building could be built on a

twenty (20) year bond. It is anticipated the cost per million dollars to bond

this project is $68,000. It would require approximately $782,000 in debt

service annually.

Mr. Thompson advised that the Ag Center Management

Committee believes this building would need a Facilities Director, a

Salesperson, an Administrative Assistant and two (2) people who would

work with setting up the building, taking care of the building, etc.

Mr. Thompson concluded his presentation by answering a question

from Commissioner Stafford as to how much the Tourism Tax is estimated

to bring in per year. It is estimated it will gross $864,000 annually.

Ward Ag Center Director Larry Tomlinson discussed briefly with the

Committees the need for the building and how it will be used.

County Attorney Jennings suggested that, if this proposal should be

sent to the State Legislature, that it include enough time when it is

returned for the County to consider whether they want to build the

building, when they must certify to the Secretary of State that they intend

to do so, and when the tax would begin to be collected. He suggested

that, once the Legislature approves this request, the County have until

December 31, 2012 to approve building the building and imposing this

tax. If approved during December, the tax would begin on January 1,

2013. If approved prior to December, 2012 the tax would begin on the first

day of the month following approval.

Motion was made by Public Works Committee Chairman Gary Keith

to send this to the Budget Committee. The motion was seconded by

Public Works Committee Members Commissioners Randy Hall and Billy

Rowland and carried unanimously.

Budget Committee Chairman Ash made a motion to send this

proposal to the full County Commission with the time deadline suggested.

The motion was seconded by Commissioner Marlowe and carded

unanimously.

There being no further business to come before the Committees,

Public Works Committee Chairman Gary Keith and Budget Committee

Chairman Bernie Ash declared the meeting adjourned.

Smith, Gilbert Graves, Commissioner Terry Scruggs, Commissioner Stephanie McDonald,

Commissioner Kenny Reich, Rusty Thompson, Sue Vanatta, Commissioner Jerry McFarland and

Jason Haley.

Hixson, Commissioner William Glover, Commissioner Eugene Murray, Mark Kawczynski, Michael

Manous, Commissioner Clint Thomas, Commissioner Jim Bradshaw, Michelle Hill and many others

from the business community.

Chairman Jeff Joines called the meeting to order at 7:00 P.M. and acknowledged a quorum was

present. Commissioner Billy Rowland led the prayer. Chairman Jeff Joines led the Pledge of

Allegiance. Jason Haley made a motion to approve the minutes of the November 10, 2011 meeting.

Commissioner Kenny Reich seconded the motion and passed unanimously.

Director Larry Tomlinson gave the Ag. Center report. The Director stated if you remember WEMA

gave up a couple of fire engines for surplus. One of those engines was known as Wendell Organ's

engine and at the time we wanted it to be put in Fiddler's Grove with a building to be built to house it.

That building did not happen and the truck was deteriorating. The Alexandria volunteer fire

department had an engine that was very similar to it and they could really use the Wendell Organ fire

engine. We talked to James Spears, Butch Blythe and others that were close to Wendell and we

determined that Wendell would rather the engine be put to service instead of just sitting there.

Alexandria has the engine up and running and they are using it. This was never put in our previous

minutes in the form of a motion. Commissioner Terry Scruggs made a motion to let Alexandria use

the fire engine with the stipulation if and when they decide to take it off line we will get the engine

back. James Spears seconded the motion and passed unanimously. Director Tomlinson said he

was approached by the President of the Fairground Softball Association and asked if we would

consider building a small third field. Commissioner Billy Rowland made a motion to take building a

third field under advisement. Commissioner Kenny Reich seconded the motion and passed

unanimously.

Chairman Jeff Joines introduced Michael Manous and Mark Kawczynski with Manous Design Inc.

Mr. Manous and Mr. Kawczynski showed a presentation for a proposed Expo Center and answered

questions. General discussions were held. Commissioner Kenny Reich made a motion to ask the

budget committee to approve a resolution enabling the county commission to forward to the state

legislative body to pass a private act that would implement a $3 tourism tax to fund a multi-purpose

Expo Center at the James E. Ward Ag. Center. Commissioner Billy Rowland seconded the motion

and passed unanimously.

James Spears made a motion to adjourn. Jason Haley seconded the motion and passed

unanimously.

The Animal Control Committee of the County Commission of Wilson County,

Tennessee met in regular session on Thursday, January 12, 2012 at 5:00 p.m. in the

County Commission meeting room at the Wilson County Courthouse in Lebanon,

Tennessee. Those members present were Commissioners Wendell Marlowe and Chad

Barnard, Nancy Andrews and Chris McAteer, being all the members of the Committee

with the exception of Commissioner Jerry McFarland, who was absent. Also present was

Animal Control Director Mary Burger, County Commissioners Terry Scruggs and Sara

Patton and Legal Assistant to the County Attorney Becky Fox.

Chairman Marlowe called the meeting to order and determined that a quorum was

present.

The minutes of the December 8, 2011 meeting were presented. Motion to

approve the minutes as printed was made by Commissioner Barnard, seconded by Nancy

Andrews and carried unanimously.

Chairman Marlowe called for the Animal Control Director's Report. Mary

Burger presented the December 2011 Animal Control Director's Report. A copy of that

report is attached to these minutes and incorporated herein by reference.

Animal Control Director Burger reviewed the report with the Committee. Motion

to receive and file the Director's Report was made by Commissioner Barnard, seconded

by Nancy Andrews and carried unanimously.

Chairman Marlowe questioned Director Burger about Animal Control's capability

of handling felines at our current facility. There had recently been a newspaper article

regarding an owner who had been attacked by his own cat. Animal Control did not

respond to the call because they were unequipped to house a feline.

Director Burger advised that Animal Control would need to purchase cat litter, cat

boxes and cat cages. Chairman Marlowe inquired whether there was space available at

our current facility for the cat cages. Director Burger advised that there is enough space

for a "set of cages" (9 cages) to be used exclusively for felines. Director Burger also

advised that New Leash on Life accepts cats.

Chris McAteer advised the Committee that cats carry more diseases and cat bites

could cause severe infections. Should a wild cat be taken in by Animal Control the risk is

greater than that with a dog. Director Burger advised that cat bites and quarantine of the

"suspect" cat could be possible at the facility. Chairman Marlowe requested for the next

meeting a list of the specific items (and the costs) Animal Control will need for the

possibility of housing felines in the future. Chairman Marlowe also requested the Health

Department's procedure on cat bites in the County. Chairman Marlowe stated that a

policy change would be needed for felines and this issue would be taken up at the next

meeting.

Director Burger discussed with the Committee the difference at Animal Control in

the years 2010 to 2011. There was an increase in total number of calls, at-large calls,

dogs picked up and dogs euthanized. There was also an increase in the amount of dogs

placed back at their homes or adopted. Director Burger is pleased with Animal Control's

organizational level, response to calls and placement of dogs back with their respective

owners or adoptive owners.

Director Burger reported to the Committee that John McFadden of the

Environmental Council brought 8 children to the facility and planted trees around the

facility.

Chairman Marlowe asked if there was an update on the proposed gun range.

Director Burger advised the Committee that as recently as this week there had been

"tests" run at the proposed site by shooting a gun and observing the dogs' reactions.

Director Burger also advised that negotiations were still ongoing with the most recent

proposal requesting trees be planted around the facility to assist with noise control. There

was also a possibility of putting a roof on the gun range to absorb the gunfire noise.

Director Burger advised the Committee on the volunteer issue at Animal Control.

Director Burger has been advised by New Leash on Life that they have been having

serious problems with volunteers overstepping their authority and causing trouble.

Director Burger spoke with County Attorney Jennings about the possibility of using

"volunteers" through a community service aspect through the Wilson County Probation

Office. They will set up a meeting with Dena Ferraro of the Probation Office.

Chairman Marlowe advised that the next meeting of this Committee will be

Thursday, February 16, 2012 at 5:00 p.m.

There being no further business to come before the Committee on motion of

Commissioner Barnard, seconded by Nancy Andrews, the Committee voted unanimously

to adjourn.

The Ag Center Management Committee and the Development

and Tourism Committee of the County Commission of Wilson County,

Tennessee met in joint session on Tuesday, January 10, 2012, at 7:00p.m. in

the School Exhibit Building at the Ag Center in Lebanon. Those members

present of the Ag Center Management Committee were Commissioners

Jeff Joines, Billy Rowland, Stephanie McDonald, Jerry McFarland, Kenneth

Reich and Terry Scruggs and Rick Bell, Jason Haley, Jo Smith, James

Spears, Ex-Officio members Gilbert Graves, Sue Vanatta and Terry

McPeak, being all the members of the Committee with the exception of

Quintin Smith, Hale Moss and Commissioner Paul Abercrombie, who were

absent. Those members present of the Development and Tourism

Committee were Commissioners Clint Thomas, Eugene Murray, William

Glover, Stephanie McDonald and Jim Bradshaw, being all the members of

the Committee.

Others present were Ag Center Director Larry Tomlinson, Tourism

Director Ricky Rodriguez, JECBD Director G. C. Hixson, Wilson County

Finance Director Aaron Maynard, Lebanon City Mayor Phillip Craighead,

Assistant to the County Attorney Jan Jewell and many from the hotel and

business community of Wilson County.

Ag Center Management Chairman Jeff Joines called the joint

meeting to order.

The Ag Center Management Committee conducted a short

business session.

Development and Tourism Committee Chairman Clint Thomas

called his committee to order.

Minutes of the August 9, 2011 meeting were approved as printed by

motion of Commissioner Glover, seconded by Commissioner Murray and

carried unanimously.

Tourism Director Ricky Rodriguez present two invoices from Crigital

Media which had been overlooked from 2009. The invoices were for

graphic design work and total Three Hundred Dollars ($300). Motion to

recommend the payment of the invoices to the Budget Committee was

made by Commissioner Murray, seconded by Commissioner Glover and

carried unanimously.

Ag Center Chairman Joines introduced Mike Manous, representing

a local consulting and design company, who made a power-point

presentation of the proposed "Wilson County Expo Center". The multi

purpose, 36,300 square foot facility would house the Tourism Office,

Visitor's Center, Exhibit Area and Banquet rooms. Other uses for the

complex would be for tradeshows, concerts, sporting events, etc..

Suggested location for the center is the west side of the Ag Center (Front

entrance off of the by-pass). A general discussion was held.

Tourism Director Ricky Rodriguez distributed a handout entitled

"Wilson County Convention Visitors Bureau Destination Data by Measure"

which showed Wilson County Hotel trend data for the past ten (10) years.

Ag Center Chairman Joines introduced Rusty Thompson who

discussed the proposed financing of the 11.5 million dollar project. He

distributed a "20 year Cash Flow Analysis" handout to the committee

members. After much discussion, Ag Center Chairman Joines stated that

his objective was to finance this project without impacting the property

owners of Wilson County. He is proposing a Three Dollar ($3) Tourism Tax

which would be separate from the current Hotel Tax received by Wilson

County that is based on a percentage. The proposed $3 Tourism Tax

would have to be approved by the State Legislature.

Lebanon Mayor Phillip Craighead responded to some concerns

over the need for two such venues as the proposed Cumberland Center

and the Expo Center. He responded by expressing his support of both,

stating that they catered to different types of prospects. He reminded the

committees that the deadline for submitting requests to the State

Legislature is January 26th.

More general discussion was held.

The Ag Center Management Committee voted on a motion to

submit a request to the State Legislature for a $3 (flat rate) Tourism Tax by

recommendation from the County's Budget Committee and by majority

vote of the County Commission to fund the construction of the proposed

Wilson County Expo Center. The motion was made by Commissioner

Reich, seconded by Commissioner Rowland and carried unanimously.

The Ag Center Management Committee then adjourned their

meeting.

Ag Center Management Chairman Joines then asked the

Development and Tourism Committee to consider the recommendation

and join them in their request to the Budget Committee and County

Commission.

Development and Tourism Committee Chairman Thomas opened

the floor for discussion. It was expressed that too many unanswered

questions were still on the table. Motion to submit a request to the State

Legislature for a $3 (flat rate) Tourism Tax by recommendation from the

County's Budget Committee and by majority vote of the County

Commission to fund the construction of the proposed Wilson County Expo

Center was made by Commissioner Glover, seconded by Commissioner

McDonald. The motion failed by a vote of 2-For and 3-Against

(Commissioners Glover and McDonald voting FOR and Commissioners

Thomas, Murray and Bradshaw voting AGAINST).

There being no further business to come before the Development

and Tourism Committee, on motion of Commissioner Glover, seconded by

Commissioner Murray, the Committee voted unanimously to adjourn.

The Finance Committee of the County Commission of Wilson

County, Tennessee met in called session on Monday, December 19, 2011

at 6:30 p.m. in the Conference Room at the Wilson County Courthouse in

Lebanon, Tennessee. Those members present were Commissioners

Eugene Murray, Becky Siever, Randy Hall, William Glover, Director of

Schools Mike Davis, County Mayor Randall Hutto and Road

Superintendent Steve Armistead, being all the members of the

Committee. Also present was Finance Director Aaron Maynard and

County Attorney Michael R. Jennings.

Chairman Murray called the meeting to order and determined that

a quorum was present.

Motion to approve the minutes of the November 8, 2011 meeting as

printed was made by Commissioner Hall, seconded by Mayor Hutto and

carried unanimously.

Chairman Murray announced the purpose of this meeting was to

consider two (2) changes and additions to the Debt Management Policy.

Finance Director Maynard explained these additions. Motion to approve

these additions was made by Commissioner Glover, seconded by

Commissioner Siever and carried unanimously.

There being no further business to come before the Committee on

motion of Commissioner Glover, seconded by Commissioner Hall, the

Committee voted unanimously to adjourn.

The Insurance Committee of the County Commission of Wilson

County, Tennessee met in called session on Tuesday, January 3, 2012 at

3:00 p.m. in the County Commission Meeting Room at the Wilson County

Courthouse in Lebanon, Tennessee. Those members present were

Commissioners Kenneth Reich, Jerry McFarland, Gary Keith, Mike Justice

and Randy Hall, being all the members of the Committee. Also present

was County Mayor Randall Hutto, Insurance Clerk Debbie Moss, Finance

Director Aaron Maynard and County Attorney Michael R. Jennings.

Chairman Reich called the meeting to order and determined that a

quorum was present.

The minutes of the September 22, 2011 meeting were presented.

Motion to approve these minutes was made by Commissioner Keith,

seconded by Commissioner Justice and carried unanimously.

Chairman Reich announced that this meeting had originally been

scheduled for 3:00 p.m.. Earlier today, an email had been sent to

Department Heads advising that the start of the meeting would be

delayed to 3:45 p.m.. Other members noted that information had been

distributed last week advising that the meeting would be recessed at 3:00

p.m. to return at 5:00 p.m. to allow County employees to speak. Motion

to recess the meeting to 5:00 p.m. was made by Commissioner Keith,

seconded by Commissioner Justice and carried by a vote of 4-For with

Chairman Reich voting no. The start of the meeting was delayed, and the

meeting will be reconvened, at 5:00 p.m..

Chairman Reich called the meeting to order at 5:00 p.m..

Chairman Reich addressed the approximately 120 County

employees who were in attendance. He noted that he and the

Committee had worked many hours over the past few months trying to

resolve this issue. Their desire was to establish an employee friendly plan

that would benefit the County and its employees. Chairman Reich also

noted that as of July 1, 2012, the Insurance Fund would be broke.

Chairman Reich advised the group that County Mayor Hutto,

Finance Director Maynard, Insurance Clerk Debbie Moss and CIGNA

Representative Beth Turner would be first on the agenda. At the

conclusion of their comments, Chairman Reich would open the floor to

the County employees for a "Question and Answer" session.

County Mayor Hutto stated that he had met with insurance and

finance personnel, department heads and others when he first came to

office to gain a better understanding of the insurance situation. He

encouraged the Committee to study long and hard on the

recommendation they would present and not make any quick or hasty

decisions. An increase in insurance deductions from employees'

paychecks would be unacceptable.

Finance Director Aaron Maynard advised that he also had met with

insurance and finance personnel upon taking the position as Director. He

was made aware from the beginning that the insurance fund was in

trouble. He has researched the issue and sought out any resolution or

available funds to resolve the situation. No hidden funds are available to

pull from.

Insurance Clerk Debbie Moss stated that everything possibly could

be done to make the resolution "employee friendly" has been done.

Cigna's proposed changes are the best the County can get. She

presented CIGNA's proposed "Vision Solution for Wilson County

Government".

Motion to recommend Cigna's "Vision Solution" to be effective

February 1, 2012 was made by Commissioner McFarland, seconded by

Commissioner Hall and carried unanimously.

Beth Turner, CIGNA representative presented a proposal for the

Health insurance which included the recommended changes from the

previous meeting.

Chairman Reich then opened the floor to the employees for a

"Question and Answer" session.

After much discussion, a motion to increase the Emergency Room

"out of pocket expenses" to Three Hundred Dollars ($300) was made by

Commissioner Keith, seconded by Commissioner Justice and carried

unanimously.

Finance Director Maynard suggested recommending to the Budget

Committee the transfer for 1.2 million dollars from the Workers Comp Fund

and applying the $600,000 received from the sale of the old Mt. Juliet

School property to the Insurance Fund to finish out the 2011-2012 fiscal

year. If expenditures hold true, the 1.8 million dollars would sustain the

County until July 1, 2012.

Motion to recommend to the Budget Committee the transfer of 1.2

million dollars from the Workers Comp Fund and the $600,000 from the old

Mt. Juliet School property sale to the Insurance Fund was made by

Commissioner Keith, seconded by Commissioner Justice. The motion

failed by a vote of 2 - For, 3 - Against. Chairman Reich stated that this

was a band-aid fix on a bleeding artery and did not resolve the issue.

Motion to take a five (5) minute recess was made by Commissioner

Keith, seconded by Commissioner Justice and carried unanimously.

Recess began at 7:21 p.m..

At 7:34 p.m. Chairman Reich called the meeting back to order.

Motion to recess the meeting until Thursday, January 5 at 6:00 p.m.

for a work session was made by Commissioner Keith.

Commissioner Justice asked that CIGNA representative Beth Turner

bring more changes to the table. Ms. Turner and Finance Director

Maynard stated that all that could be done has been done. Chairman

Reich reminded everyone that the County does not have a choice, if no

changes are made and no financing of the Fund are resolved, there will

be no insurance for the employees as of July 1.

Commissioner Hall seconded the Motion to recess until Thursday,

January 5 at 6:00 p.m.. Motion carried unanimously.

Chairman Reich recessed the meeting.

The Insurance Committee of the County Commission of Wilson County,

Tennessee met in recessed session on Thursday, January 5, 2012 at 6:00 p.m. in the

County Commission meeting room at the Wilson County Courthouse in Lebanon,

Tennessee. Those members present were Commissioners Kenneth Reich, Randy Hall,

Mike Justice, Jerry McFarland and Gary Keith, being all the members of the Committee.

Also present was County Mayor Randall Hutto, Finance Director Aaron Maynard,

Insurance Benefits Clerk Debbie Moss, Risk Manager Debbie Green, County

Commissioners Terry Scruggs and Chad Barnard, representatives of CIGNA, County

Attorney Michael R. Jennings and numerous County employees.

Chairman Reich called the meeting to order and determined that a quorum was

present.

Chairman Reich made some opening comments about the efforts the Insurance

Committee is making to deal with monetary issues in the Insurance Fund. Their goal is

to do the best possible job they can and to take those actions that are least harmful to the

employees.

Chairman Reich noted that there were some employees present tonight that were

not present at Tuesday's meeting. He would like to give those employees a chance to

speak now, if they wish.

Larry Bowman of the Wilson County Sheriff s Department asked the Insurance

Committee to look at all options and make the right decision for the employees.

Clerk & Master Barbara Webb expressed appreciation to the Committee for what

they are doing and expressed her desire that employees not have to pay anything more

out of their check.

Chairman Reich noted that it appears the Insurance Committee will run a S2

million dollar deficit this year if actions are not taken. This Committee is committed to

taking care of this issue this year but they also must take some actions to make sure the

fund remains solid next year.

Finance Director Maynard advised everyone about discussions about the length of

service scale for calculating the employee deductible. He noted that, a modification to

the plan expected to save $1.5 million dollars, does not ultimately solve the problem. He

is working on how to resolve the difference and hopes an employee contribution is not

necessary.

Commissioner McFarland stated that it looks like we have three (3) problems:

first, this shortfall; second, how to address this issue next year; and third, repairing the

problem of those going to the emergency room for minor issues like headaches and those

type of issues which is "bleeding us out" on our funds.

The Committee then discussed the proposal to transfer $1.2 million dollars fro

the Workers Compensation line item. After some discussion, motion to recommend

moving $1.2 million dollars from the Workers Compensation line item into the Insurance

Fund and to use this year's $600,000 payment from the sale of the old Mt. Juliet

Elementary School and transfer it into the Insurance Fund was made by Commissioner

Justice, seconded by Commissioner Keith and carried unanimously.

The Committee noted this could still leave a projected shortfall of $500,000.

However, this request, now recommended, will go the Budget Committee and hopefully

to the County Commission.

The Committee discussed having CareHere not send any employees to the

emergency room unless it is absolutely necessary. CIGNA representative Beth Turner

noted that, under our current plan, our usage of the emergency room is 236% higher than

the rest of CIGNA's coverage in this area. Under our Open Access Plus plan, the

employees are using the emergency room for a lot of different purposes for which the

emergency room is not normally used. The Committee discussed the need to amend our

current plan, but also to extend the open enrollment period to be able to explain this to

each and every employee. Motion to extend the open enrollment period for County

employees through February 17, 2012 was made by Commissioner Hall, seconded by

Commissioner McFarland and carried unanimously.

The Committee noted that the emergency room change will be a part of the

overall amended plan. They do not need a resolution on this separate portion, but it will

be considered as a part of the resolution amending the plan.

The Committee spent several minutes discussing the contract with CareHere.

After further discussion, motion to issue an REP for a Wilson County clinic was made by

Commissioner Keith. After further discussion, the motion was withdrawn.

The Committee then discussed meeting on January 24, 2012 at 6:00 p.m. to

discuss CareHere and what they would like to see in an RFP.

Motion, at the conclusion of this evening's business, that we recess until Monday,

January 9, 2012 at 5:00 p.m. to further discuss these issues was made by Commissioner

Justice, seconded by Commissioner Hall and carried unanimously.

Commissioner Justice asked Finance Director Maynard what would happen if

$1.8 million dollars was not transferred into the Insurance Fund. Director Maynard

believes that the fund will be out of money in late March or early April.

There being no further business to come before the Committee this evening,

motion to recess to Monday, January 9, 2012 at 5:00 p.m. was made by Commissioner

McFarland, seconded by Commissioner Keith and carried unanimously