Financial Quandary For County Commission
The Jefferson County Commission met for their regular work session on Monday, November 10, 2014. At the core of the work session were upcoming requests for funding, with some more immediate then others. Director of Jefferson County Schools Edmonds requested funding for renovation and restoration of Building 8, on the heels of the request failing to find sufficient support in the budget committee to be brought as a funding recommendation. Commission Scarlett requested that the scope of work have at least two additional bids to insure that the lowest and best bid is awarded the contract. Edmonds stated that the current bid will come as a change order to the original contract and the contract manager will receive the same low rate, which is less than 2%. Several Commissioners concurred with Scarlett’s request.
Also a topic of discussion was the eventual funding of the project, as well as the proposal to take out a bond to fund the remaining funds needed for the Jefferson County High School proper renovation. Those funds were earmarked to come as a cash contribution from several accounts, however Bond Council has recommended that the Commission borrow the money instead and include the funds needed for the Building 8 project. The Commission was informed that current County debt sits at $82,980,631 before including interest. Jefferson County Finance Director Helton stated that the Hospital Reserve Account has a balance of around $4 million dollars and $2.4 million has been put in reserve to fund a portion of the $4 million dollar cash contribution to the JCHS renovation project. Commissioner Scarlett stated that should the Commission decide to take out a bond rather than use cash on hand, he would like stipulations that the funds that were earmarked for that project be reserved for industrial development property purchase. Commission McGraw inquired if it could be stipulated that it would require a 2/3 vote to use the funds for anything other than industrial development and was informed that it could be a part of the motion. The Bond Council informed the Commission that it would cost more if funds are borrowed for industrial development than for a school project.
Industrial Development Board Chairman Masters addressed the Commission on the status of property search. He stated that the IDB has optioned 3 properties, at owner’s request. Two are in White Pine and one is in Dandridge. Masters said that there is a possibility that another will soon be optioned. The Board is investigating each location for best use for each piece of property. He said that the IDB is committed to finding suitable property for purchase.
Several committee placement recommendations will be brought from the Nominating Committee and the Budget Committee will bring approved amendments as a recommendation. Finance Committee Chairman McGraw informed the full body that the search has begun for a Finance Director to replace a departing Helton. He stated that he has advertised and some interest has been received. McGraw stated that the Committee is committed to finding the best fit for Jefferson County.
Commission Chairman Carmichael presented the meeting schedule and it will be for consideration at the voting meeting. He will also be bringing a recommendation to consider the expansion of hours of the County Commission Secretary. The Chairman led a discussion on the protocol for contacting the County attorney and costs incurred. He stated that there was concern that all Commissioner are not privy to information given by the attorney to individuals. Commissioner Turner will bring a resolution to be sent to committee for scrubbing. Commissioner David Seal stated that he will be bringing a motion to withhold Chamber and EDOC funding for the remainder of the fiscal year, due to lack of transparency with tax payer funds, and earmark those funds for industrial development through the County Commission or Industrial Development Board.
