Update: State of Tennessee’s Facilities Management Initiative

This message comes in follow up to my Aug. 18, 2015, system-wide communication regarding the State of Tennessee’s facilities management initiative.

I understand that recent news accounts and conversations of outsourcing and privatizing facilities management services by the state have created anxiety among many within the University of Tennessee community.

Last week, I had the opportunity to join TBR Chancellor John Morgan in meeting with Gov. Bill Haslam to discuss the initiative and seek additional clarity about the state’s plans.  It is my understanding that our campuses and institutes will be able to evaluate any options that are presented by the state and make decisions that are in our best interest.

Gov. Haslam and other leaders in Nashville have reiterated that this initiative is a work in progress and they will give careful and serious consideration to any next steps. As plans move ahead, we will keep you informed and respond to questions and concerns as best we can.

While we have agreed, along with TBR, to be a part of the review process, be assured that we will remain committed to what is in the best interest of the University of Tennessee community and our effective and efficient operation.

As always, thank you for all you do and for your dedication to the University of Tennessee.

All the best,
Joe