October 13, 2026 Committee Meetings

Hamblen County committee meetings were held October 13, 2026. The Justice Center Public Safety Committee received an update on unresolved closeout negotiations with the Justice Center construction company over disputed contract requirements and change orders; no dollar figure was disclosed. The mayor said he would meet with the contract attorney and may bring options to an executive session. A one-year inspection involving the architect, construction company, project manager, and county maintenance staff was also approaching. No contract award or settlement was approved. The Finance Committee approved a $225-per-hour rate for the new county attorney, with the existing attorney expected to continue handling pending litigation during a 180-day transition. It also 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 revenue and expenses. A Sheriff’s Office Reserve Deputy Program was approved, initially providing for up to five certified part-time deputies; officials estimated two reserves would cost about $2,208 monthly compared with $3,312 for two full-time deputies, before benefits. Existing county equipment is expected to be used, and no specific equipment purchase was approved.

The Bulk Waste Committee discussed staffing, fleet condition, collection costs, code enforcement, and possible changes to county service. Officials cited a recent quote of about $210,000 for a new brush truck and discussed options including additional resources, convenience centers, an enterprise-funded model, or coordination with Morristown; these were exploratory discussions with no spending decision. The committee favored continued discussion with the city and related agencies. The Personnel Committee approved an education and longevity item related to military pay. The Rules Review Committee voted to advance the existing rules as a temporary baseline while members continue reviewing possible changes; no procurement activity was identified in that discussion.