Commission Prepares for Voting Meeting

The Jefferson County Commission met for their Regular Work Session on Monday, March 10, 2014 at the Historic Jefferson County Courthouse.  The Meeting was Called to Order by Commission Chairman Mills. Absent from Roll Call were Commissioners Tabor, Patterson, Blevins, Barriero, Maples and Sheets.

Two citizens addressed the Commission regarding road issues on Kinder Lane and requested assistance with condition issues. Road Superintendent Tipton stated that he is aware of the situation and will meet with property owners to address the issues of concern.

Jefferson County Mayor Palmieri informed the Commission that he will be bringing a resolution for approval regarding County Growth Boundaries, by recommendation of the Jefferson County Urban Growth Commission. He also stated that he will bring mayoral appointments to the Public Records Commission for confirmation.

County Highway Superintendent Tipton and Highway Commission Chairman Mike Wolfenbarger stated that they will bring the recommendation of David Cates to fill a recently vacated position.

Jefferson County Finance Director Helton stated that there will be several items brought for approval to surplus. Holsters from the Sheriff’s Department surplus will be donated to Gatlinburg Police Department, which has provided space for training for the Jefferson County Sheriff Department. School surplus includes around 1600 student and teacher desks and multiple chairs which, according to Director of Business Affairs for the Schools Phagan, will be culled.

The Commission received a report from the Director of the Boys and Girls Club, Jessica Page, regarding progress on their Reaching Out Imitative and an update from the County Director for Family and Consumer Sciences/UT Extension office, Melissa Rector LeGraff.

In Committee Reports, the Budget Committee will bring seven budget amendments for recommendation, as well as two Resolutions for Commission approval. The Finance Committee will bring one Resolution for federal tax compliance and procedure, which is mandated. Recommendations for vacant seats on the Industrial Development Board and the Conservation Board will come from the Nominating Committee. An update from the Industrial Development Board will be given at the voting meeting.

In other reports, Director of Schools Edmonds presented the Commission with an update regarding insurance settlement offers from the insurance company for the roof collapse at Jefferson County High School. Edmonds stated that the offer received from Travelers Insurance Company, the reinsures of Tennessee Risk Management (which holds the Jefferson County policy), was insufficient and the School Board is investigating retaining specialized legal council to increase the chances of a more reasonable settlement. The annual premium from July 1, 2013 through June 30, 2014 is $ 548,004 and the current offer from Travelers is $735,375. Tennessee Risk Management has already met their obligation of $100,000 minus a $500 deductible and the remainder will be negotiated with Travelers.