October 13, 2026 Committee Meetings

Hamblen County committee meetings, October 13, 2026: The Justice Center Public Safety Committee received an update on unresolved closeout negotiations with the construction company, including disagreements over contract terms and change orders and the possibility of recovering funds. The mayor said he would consult with the contract attorney and may schedule an executive session to present options; no decision or amount was disclosed. A one-year inspection involving the architect, construction and project managers, and county maintenance staff was also planned. In Finance, the committee approved a $136,926.22 decrease to the Department of Education’s general-purpose budget and a $2,850 Sheriff’s Department budget amendment recognizing National Child Safety Council grant funds. The $13,500 special-patrol item was identified as information only. The committee approved a rate of $225 per hour for County Attorney David Gratz; discussion noted the outgoing attorney would continue handling existing litigation during the 180-day transition at the rate set by the commission.

The Finance Committee also approved the Sheriff’s Office Reserve Deputy Program, establishing up to five slots for POST-certified officers. Officials estimated two reserves would cost about $2,208 per month, compared with $3,312 plus benefits for two full-time deputies, and said most necessary equipment was already available. The Bulk Waste Committee discussed staffing and equipment constraints and service alternatives, including convenience centers, an enterprise model, and coordination with Morristown; a new brush truck had a recent quote of about $210,000. No bulk-waste purchasing or policy decision was taken. The Personnel Committee approved an education-and-longevity item for military pay submissions, and the Calendar and Rules Committee approved its regular and consent calendars.