![]() |
WILSON COUNTY TENNESSEE |
|
"Working for a better future."
COMMITTEE MINUTES |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| HOME COUNTY COMMISSION COMMISSION COMMITTEES AGENDAS | |
|
|
|
STEERING COMMITTEE MINUTES
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.
EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AGENCY COMMITTEE
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.
EDUCATION COMMITTEE MINUTES
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.
MINUTES COMMITTEE MINUTES
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.
MINUTES OF THE JOINT MEETING OF THE PUBLIC WORKS COMMITTEE AND
THE BUDGET COMMITTEE
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.
MINUTES
AG
MANAGEMENT COMMITTEENovember 10, 2011
Members Present:
Chairman Jeff Joines, Commissioner Billy Rowland, Rick Bell, James Spears, JoSmith, Gilbert Graves, Commissioner Terry Scruggs, Commissioner Stephanie McDonald,
Commissioner Kenny Reich, Rusty Thompson, Sue Vanatta, Commissioner Jerry McFarland and
Jason Haley.
Guests:
Ricky Rodriguez, Rebecca Whitefield, Mayor Phillip Craighead, Aaron Maynard, G.C.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.
Staff Present:
Larry Tomlinson and Donna BaneChairman 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.
ANIMAL CONTROL COMMITTEE MINUTES
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.
MINUTES OF THE JOINT MEETING OF THE AG
CENTER MANAGEMENTCOMMIUEE AND THE DEVELOPMENT AND TOURISM COMMITTEE
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.
FINANCE COMMITTEE MINUTES
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.
INSURANCE COMMITTEE MINUTES
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.
INSURANCE COMMITTEE MINUTES
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
INSURANCE COMMITITE MINUTES
The Insurance Committee of the County Commission of Wilson County,
Tennessee met in recessed session on Monday, January 9, 2012, at 5:00 p.m. in
the Conference 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 Finance Director Aaron Maynard, Insurance
Benefits Clerk Debbie Moss, Risk Manager Debbie Green and numerous county
employees.
Chairman Reich called the recessed meeting to order and determined
that a quorum was present.
Commissioner Gary Keith presented a graduated deductible scale for the
plan being considered. The scale is as follows: Employees with less than 5 years
service would have a $600 deductible; 5-10 years service would have a $500
deductible; 10-15 years service would have a $400 deductible; and those with 15
or more years service would have a $300 deductible. CIGNA Representative
Beth Turner stated that the cost will not be that much of a difference, only a .6%
increase, but the Emergency Room co-pay increase would probably offset that
figure.
Chairman Reich called for a motion to take 1.2 million dollars from the
existing Workers Comp Fund in addition to the payment received on the sale of
the old Mt. Juliet school property of $600,000 to fix the shortfall for the 2011-2012
fiscal year. No motion received.
A discussion of the drug Nexium was held. Commissioner Keith stated that
it should be a three (3) month cure not an ongoing prescription. There are
equivalents to Nexium but very few, if any, insurance plans cover it. The plan
would save $85,000 by not covering Nexium. Motion to delete Nexium from the
plan's covered drugs was made by Commissioner Keith, seconded by
Commissioner McFarland and carried unanimously.
Discussion was held on other options from a 10% across the board cut in
all budgets to employee contributions. Currently 8.2 million dollars is brought in
and approximately 10.2 million dollars is being spent. In the past millions of
dollars have had to be put into the insurance program just to keep it afloat.
Money for employee raises has in essence been put back into insurance.
Motion to adopt the graduated deductible scale, an 80/20 across the
board pay for all hospitals and physicians, out-of-pocket would remain the same
(as proposed), Emergency Room visits would increase to $300 co-pay and
delete Nexium as a covered drug was made by Chairman Reich, seconded by
Commissioner McFarland and carried unanimously. Effective date of changes
will be February 1, 2012. Committee agreed that this was only a fix for the 2011-
2012 year.
Finance Director Maynard advised the Committee that 2012-2013 will still
have a deficit. Director Maynard presented three (3) options. 1) Premium
increase to employees; 2) Re-allocate budget for each employee; and 3) Take
two cents (20) out of Debt Service and move into the Insurance Fund. He
advised that taking from Debt Service would not be a permanent solution.
Moving 20 would create $560,000 and 30 would create $740,000. The transfer of
money from Debt Service would not be possible until July, 2012. Motion to
recommend the three (3) options to the Budget Committee and to the County
Commission was made by Chairman Reich, seconded by Commissioner Hall and
carried unanimously.
A discussion was held on educating the employees on the insurance plan
and encouraging the use of walk-in-clinics and CareHere.
Chairman Reich thanked the Committee for all their hard work and he
assured the employees that the Committee has and will work towards a solution
with the best interest of the employees at heart.
There being no further business to come before the Committee, on motion
of Chairman Reich, seconded by Commissioner Justice the Committee voted
unanimously to adjourn.
JUDICIAL COMMITTEE MINUTES
The Judicial Committee of the County Commission of Wilson
County, Tennessee was scheduled to meet in regular session on Thursday,
January 12, 2012 at 5:00 p.m. in the upstairs Conference Room at the
Wilson County Courthouse in Lebanon, Tennessee. Those members
present were Commissioners Gary Keith and Randy Hall, being all the
members of the Committee with the exception of Commissioners Mike
Justice, Eugene Murray and Jason Brockman, who were absent. Also
present was Finance Director Aaron Maynard and County Attorney
Michael R. Jennings.
Chairman Keith called the meeting to order and determined that a
quorum was not present. Because there was no quorum, no business
could be transacted.
Chairman Keith advised that he would call a meeting at a later
date and everyone would be notified.
Chairman Keith then declared the meeting adjourned.
URBAN TYPE PUBLIC FACILITIES BOARD MINUTES
The Urban Type Public Facilities Board of the County Commission of Wilson
County, Tennessee met in regular session on Friday, January 6, 2012 at the
conclusion of the Wilson County Road Commission Meeting at the office of the
Wilson County Road Commission at 1000 Tennessee Boulevard in Lebanon,
Tennessee. Those members present were Wilson County Mayor Randall Hutto
and Commissioners Billy Rowland, Kenneth Reich, Jeff Joines and Adam
Bannach, being all the members of the Board. Also present was Landfill
Superintendent Cindy Lynch, Finance Director Aaron Maynard, Stormwater
Director John Dewaal and County Attorney Michael R. Jennings.
Chairman Hutto called the meeting to order at 9:30 a.m. and determined
that a quorum was present.
The minutes of the December 2, 2011 meeting were presented. Motion to
approve these minutes as printed was made by Commissioner Rowland,
seconded by Commissioner Reich and carried unanimously.
There were no delegations to appear before the Board.
County Attorney Jennings advised he had no legal matters to report to
the Board.
Landfill Superintendent Cindy Lynch gave the Solid Waste Report.
December, 2011 has been a very busy month. 3,683 cubic yards were collected
during the month of December for total revenue of $33,143 34 The revenue is up
approximately $18,000 over the same period of time last year. Year-to-date
revenue is up approximately $43,000.
In Collections and Hauling, 1,380.26 tons were collected and hauled
to either Smith County or recycled. 2,250 cubic yards were hauled to the Class
III/IV Landfill. 215.64 tons were recycled, up approximately 32 tons, and revenue
from recycling was $20,347.04, up approximately $5,500. There were 270 pulls
from the convenience centers in the month of December, up 17 from the same
period of time last year.
Director Lynch advised that she had received a call that a new scrap
metal business was opening in Lebanon which could be to our advantage.
Currently we are hauling scrap metal to Gallatin, Hermitage or La Vergne.
Director Lynch advised that we are now collecting electronics at the
Bairds Mill Convenience Center on the weekends.
Commissioner Joines asked about the possibility of placing a compactor
at the Bairds Mill Convenience Center. Director Lynch advised the approximate
2
cost would be $70,000. Director Lynch advised that there is an old compactor at
the landfill that the "guts" are gone. She is currently pricing what it would take to
put that back into operation. If so, it could be placed at the Lebanon
Convenience Center.
Commissioner Joines discussed with the Board the fact that six (6) cents of
the property tax rate was taken from the landfill a couple of years ago and we
have not gotten that tax rate back. After some discussion, motion that we ask
the Budget Committee for an appropriation of $70,000 to buy two (2) new
compactors to put at the landfill was made by Commissioner Joines, seconded
by Commissioner Rowland. As discussion, Commissioner Joines noted that we do
not have the money to fund these types of improvements, like we have in the
past, because of the tax revenues that have been taken from us. As a further
part of the discussion, Mayor Hutto asked Director Lynch about the needs of the
landfill and convenience centers. Director Lynch noted that we really need
another convenience center in the west end of the county, because of the
rapid growth in that area. We will also be needing more boxes in the near future
and, before long, we will need to purchase two (2) garbage trucks. However,
the priority, at this time, is two (2) compactors. Finance Director Maynard was
asked where these funds could be taken from. He advised that these funds
could come from the Capital Projects Fund #189 as these are considered capital
improvements. After further discussion, motion to amend the original motion to
make this presentation to the Budget Committee in February was made by
Commissioner Reich. Commissioner Joines and Rowland concur on the
amendment. The motion, as amended, then carried unanimously.
Commissioner Reich complimented Director Lynch and her employees for
the good work they are doing. He advised that, while he was at the Lebanon
Convenience Center during the month of December, a lady who looked to be
in her seventies, was having difficulty unloading her trash. The attendant helped
her and seemed pleased to do so. Overall, he has seen a better attitude in
landfill employees. County Mayor Hutto advised that he had received no
complaints on the landfill or convenience centers operations or employees.
Motion to approve the Landfill Director's Report was made by
Commissioner Bannach, seconded by Commissioner Joines and carried
unanimously.
There was no old or new business to come before the Board with regard
to Solid Waste.
The Board then turned its attention to Stormwater issues.
Stormwater Director John Dewaal distributed a two (2) page Stormwater
Report which is attached to these minutes and incorporated herein by
reference.
Mayor Hutto advised that a meeting is set with representatives of the
Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation this next Wednesday
at 10:00 a.m. at the landfill with Al Majors to discuss the City of Lebanon's
proposal to place a firing range adjacent to the landfill. The TDEC
representatives will tell us the guidelines necessary to be followed.
Director Dewaal noted that December had been a slow month due to
weather, holidays and not as much work going on in the private sector.
Director Dewaal discussed with the Board a proposed "Inter-local
Agreement for Implementation and Administration of Stormwater Services". The
Board discussed this proposed Agreement. The Board requested that this be
submitted for approval after approval by the cities of Lebanon and Mt. Juliet.
Director Dewaal noted that he has to issue Notice of Violations sometimes
when it becomes necessary. He has done this three to five times but has
assessed no fines. What does the Board want him to report to them when he has
to do this? After some discussion, the Board advised that they would like to be
notified about major violations or violations were a fine is assessed.
County Mayor Hutto advised that he is working on space issues for
Stormwater and other departments in the old county jail building.
Motion to approve the Stormwater Director's Report was made by
Commissioner Reich, seconded by Commissioner Joines and carried
unanimously.
There being no further business to come before the Board on motion of
Commissioner Reich, seconded by Commissioner Joines, the Board voted
unanimously to adjourn.
BUDGET COMMITTEE MINUTES
The Budget Committee of the County Commission of Wilson County, Tennessee
met in regular session on Thursday, January 12, 2012 at 7:00 p.m. in the Conference
Room at the Wilson County Courthouse in Lebanon, Tennessee. Those members present
were County Mayor Randall Hutto and County Commissioners Bernie Ash, Annette
Stafford 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, JECDB Director G.C. Hixson, Director of Schools Mike Davis,
Deputy Director of Schools Mickey Hall, Tourism Director Ricky Rodriguez, WEMA
Director John Jewell, Commissioners Chad Barnard, Becky Siever and Clint Thomas,
and County Attorney Michael R. Jennings.
Chaiiinan Ash called the 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 Stafford, seconded by Commissioner Marlowe and carried
unanimously.
Finance Director Maynard announced he had no Financial Report at this time.
Chairman Ash recognized JECDB Director G.C. Hixson who presented a memo
concerning the PILOT program for Amazon.com . He noted the adjustments that had
been made but the total PILOT program is still underneath the cap. He advised that work
is taking place on the project and they are moving 70,000 cubic yards of dirt. He gave a
progress report as to the status of the construction. The building must be completed by
October 1, 2012. Director Hixson concluded his report by advising that he will return to
the Committee in February or March to discuss possible adjustments to the PILOT
program.
Chairman Ash recognized Tourism Director Ricky Rodriguez. Mr. Rodriguez
advised the Committee that invoices for a previous vendor had been discovered that had
not been paid. These are old invoices totaling $300. Motion to approve payment of
these invoices was made by Commissioner Stafford, seconded by Commissioner
Marlowe and carried unanimously.
Director of Schools Mike Davis presented School Board Budget Amendment No.
2012-05. Motion to recommend this budget amendment request to the County
Commission was made by Commissioner Stafford, seconded by Mayor Hutto and carried
unanimously.
Chairman Ash presented a budget amendment request for WEMA for the WEMA
Reserve Account. Motion to recommend this budget amendment request to the County
Commission was made by Commissioner Marlowe, seconded by Mayor Hutto and
carried unanimously.
Chairman Ash presented a budget amendment request for WEMA for Fire
Prevention and Control. Motion to recommend this budget amendment request to the
County Commission was made by Commissioner Marlowe, seconded by Mayor Hutto
and carried unanimously.
Chairman Ash presented a budget amendment request for WEMA. Motion to
recommend this budget amendment request to the County Commission was made by
Commissioner Marlowe, seconded by Mayor Hutto and carried unanimously.
Chairman Ash then recognized Commissioner Kenneth Reich, Chairman of the
Insurance Committee, to discuss recommendations of the Insurance Committee for the
Insurance Fund. Commissioner Reich advised that the Insurance Committee had met
three times last week. They have determined to recommend to the County Commission
modifications to the County insurance plan so that all employees will be under the same
plan. It will be an 80/20 plan. With the adoption of the new plan, which includes some
other minor modifications, it is projected that conservatively that annual savings will be
$1.5 million dollars.
However, for this year, the plan could run a $2 million dollar deficit. The
Insurance Committee has recommended to this Committee that we move $1.2 million
dollars from the Workers Compensation Liability line item and appropriate the S600,000
of this year's payment from the sale of the old Mt. Juliet Elementary School property to
shore up the fund. They are also recommending that we move $.03 out of the Debt
Service Fund tax rate next year into the Insurance Fund.
Commissioner Reich asked for Finance Director Maynard's comments. Director
Maynard noted that he, and the Committee, had looked at many different options but this
appears to be the best option to address this problem in the future. He did pose to the
Committee the question of whether S.03 is necessary or could we get by on S.02 of the
property tax rate.
Commissioner Marlowe was concerned about the costs of dependent insurance
coverage. He noted that the cost of school employees' dependent insurance coverage to
the employee is $6,900 per year. Wilson County employees pay only $180 per month for
dependent coverage.
After further discussion, motion that we approve the two proposals to move the
1.8 million dollars and to take $.03 from the General Debt Service Fund in next year's
budget was made by Chairman Ash, seconded by Commissioner Stafford. Commissioner
Marlowe would like these to be voted upon separately. After further discussion, a motion
was made by Chairman Ash to amend to take only S.02 from the General Debt Service
Fund. After further discussion, the motion and amendment were withdrawn.
Motion to approve a resolution transferring the $1.8 million dollars into the
Insurance Fund was made by Commissioner Marlowe, seconded by Commissioner
Stafford and carried unanimously.
Motion that we take $.02 from the General Debt Service Fund in next year's
budget was made by Chairman Ash. Chairman Ash called for a second and, hearing
none, declared the motion dies for lack of a second.
Motion to recommend a resolution of intent to take the $.03 from the General
Debt Service Fund in next year's budget to help fund the Insurance Fund was made by
Chairman Ash, seconded by Commissioner Stafford and carried by vote of 3 for with
Commissioner Marlowe voting "no".
Finance Director Maynard presented a list of surplus property for WEMA. The
items we are bidding are to be declared surplus for destruction. The microwave ovens are
to be declared surplus for sale. Motion to approve the request of surplus items as
described was made by Commissioner Marlowe, seconded by Mayor Hutto and carried
unanimously.
As new business, Chairman Ash recognized Commissioner Clint Thomas.
Commissioner Thomas would like to recommend that the County become members in the
National Association of Counties (NACO). This is a nationwide organization and
currently 26 Tennessee counties are members. Commissioner Thomas explained the
benefits of membership to the Committee. He discussed a prescription drug discount
card program that, every time it is used, will return $1 to Wilson County. It was noted
that this membership would affect all Wilson County citizens. The Committee discussed
having this proposal go to the Health & Welfare Committee for consideration. It was
noted that the costs of dues to join this organization is $1,653.00 per year. We were
members last year free of charge but now, to maintain our membership, we must join at
this cost.
After further discussion, Finance Director Maynard noted that this is not a big
investment. He believes that he can find the funding for this in his budget. Motion to
approve joining the National Association of Counties was made by Commissioner
Marlowe, seconded by Commissioner Stafford and carried unanimously.
There being no further business to come before the Committee on motion of
Commissioner Stafford, seconded by Commissioner Marlowe, the Committee voted
unanimously to adjourn.
MINUTES OF THE
WILSON COUNTY ELECTION COMMISSION
The Wilson County Election Commission met on Tuesday, November 8, 2011 at 4:30 p.m. at
the Wilson County Election Commission office. The following members were present:
Chairman Mary Stimek, Secretary Bob Haley, Commissioners Ronnie Kelley, and Sherrie
Orange. Also present was Administrator of Elections Phillip Warren and Deputy Administrator
Melia Anderson.
Commissioner Jan Williams was absent.
Chairman Stimek called the meeting to order.
Chairman Stimek asked the Commission for approval of the Minutes of October 11 th , 2011.
Secretary Haley made the motion to approve the minutes, Commissioner Orange seconded. All
members voted aye. The motion was approved.
Chairman Stimek asked the Commission for approval of the Minutes of the special called
meeting on October 17 th, 2011. Secretary Haley made the motion to approve the minutes,
Commissioner Orange seconded. All members voted aye. The motion was approved.
Chairman Stimek asked if there were any old business to discuss, there was none.
Chairman Stimek began the discussion of new business. Chairman Stimek asked if there were
ly rejected applications to be approved. Deputy Administrator Melia Anderson presented the
board with five (5) Voter Registration appeal forms returned by voters. The Commission found
one appeal form not completed correctly, and the appeal was rejected. Commissioner Orange
made the motion to approve the four (4) appeal forms, Commissioner Kelley seconded. All
members voted aye. The motion was approved. These applications can now be processed as
new registrations.
The Commission was presented with twenty seven (27) new applications to approve, 10 % of 266
with no deficiencies found, Commissioner Kelley made the motion to approve twenty seven (27)
voter registrations, Secretary Haley seconded. All members voted aye. The motion was
approved.
Administrator Warren presented the Commission with the new re-districting map that has been
approved by the County Commission. He asked the Commission for an approval of the 25
Precincts that follow the geographical boundaries of the 25 County Commission Districts.
Commissioner Orange made the motion to approve the map, Commissioner Kelly seconded. All
members voted aye. The motion was approved.
Administrator Warren presented the Commission with the activity report for the month of
October. As of date there are a total of 62,673 registered active voters, and 9,021 inactive voters
making the total of eligible voters as 71,694. Voters purged this month were 124.
Administrator Warren presented updates to the Commission:
The Election Notice for the Presidential Preference Primary has been posted. Administrator
Warren stated that was posted in the Lebanon Democrat, and will be posted in the Mt Juliet
News extra, which is a free publication delivered to all post boxes in Mt. Juliet.
Administrator Warren reminded the Commission of the Middle Tennessee TACEO meeting on
Thursday, November 17'h, 2011, at Henry Horton State Park.
Chairman Stimek asked if there was any other business to discuss. There being none,
Commissioner Kelley made the motion to adjourn. Commissioner Orange seconded. The
meeting was adjourned.
ilson County Planning Commission Minutes
The Wilson County Planning Commission met Friday, November 18, 2011 at 11:00 a.m. in the
County Commission Room of the Wilson County Courthouse located at 228 East Main Street
Lebanon. Tennessee pursuant to public notice. Those members present were Fitzpatrick, Dixon,
Graves, Hutto, Jewell, Major, Nokes and Woods constituting the entire membership with the
exception of Williams and Jones, who were absent. Also present were the County Planning Staff,
the County Building Inspectors Staff, County Attorney Mike Jennings and Registered
Professional Court Reporter Teresa Hatcher.
Chairman Fitzpatrick then asked all individuals who desired to make statements before the
Commission to stand and raise their right hand. She thereupon, administered the oath to each and
every one of the prospective witnesses.
The minutes of the October 19, 2011 meeting were approved on motion of Graves second by
Dixon with all others voting aye.
Old Business:
A.) Final Wright Farm Section 3-B 27 lots
Garrett Way 99/4.00 po
Plat was presented. Staff read recommendations. On motion of Nokes, second by Woods,
Dixon abstains, all others voting aye, the plat was approved subject to staff
recommendations.
B.) Site Plan-Wilson County EMA-Radio Tower Bates Road Site 1 lot
Bates Road 14/5.01
Applicant requests deferral. Staff noted the use request was deferred indefinitely at the
Board of Zoning Appeals meeting therefore; applicant is seeking deferral. On motion of
Graves, second by Major, with all voting aye, the site plan was deferred indefinitely.
C.) Site Plan- Wilson EMA Radio Tower Tomlinson Place Site 1 lot
Tomlinson Place 22/37.00
Site plan was presented. Staff read recommendations. After discussion, on motion of
Graves, second by Dixon, and with all voting aye, the site plan was approved subject to
staff recommendations.
D.) Amendment to the Wilson County Subdivision Regulations: Clarifying Language
pertaining to Stormwater
Amendment was presented. On motion of Graves, second by Nokes, and with all voting
aye, the amendment was approved.
New Business
The 2012 Calendar for deadline and meeting dates was presented. On motion of Woods, second
by Hutto, and with all voting aye, the calendar was approved.
Rezoning Request
Billy Jones has made application to rezone approximately 5.41 acres from Agricultural (A-1) to
Highway Commercial (C-3) the property is located at 6048 Highway 109 North referenced by
Wilson County Tax Map 33 part of Parcel 46.00.
Staff read recommendations. Applicant was present to answer questions and respectfully asked
the Plarming Commission to approve the request. On motion of Nokes, second by Woods, with
all voting aye, the request received a positive recommendation and will be forwarded to the
Wilson County Commission for a final vote.
On motion of Major second by Woods and with all voting aye the following plats were affirmed.
1 lot
99/71.05
2 lots
115N/A/4.00
Rsb.;/Amd.; Thomas & Betty McFarland Heirs Lot 3
Burnett Road
Rsb.; Legends Ridge Subdivision Lots 4 & 5
Legends Ridge Drive
& 5.00
Planner Brashear gave a brief overview of the Coordinating Committee and the possible moving
of jurisdiction boundary lines
There being no further business to come before the Commission the meeting was adjourned.
Chairman noted the staff recommendations and related discussions had entered into the decision
making of the Commission and directed the staff recommendations to be placed in the minute
attachment file. There being no further business to come before the Commission at this time, the
same was on motion duly made and seconded, adjourned.