Update Pertaining to Confusion About Facilities Management Study

I realize that news accounts and conversations about the possibility of outsourcing and privatizing facilities management services by the state create anxiety among many within the University community. Because of confusion arising from recent news accounts, in particular, I want to update you briefly on the University of Tennessee’s involvement in this matter.

The University is committed to a thorough review of information involved in a study under way now by state officials to determine the potential cost effectiveness of privatization of facilities management services.

The part of the initiative involving review of costs continues. Public comments on Wednesday of a University of Tennessee, Knoxville facilities administrator about a study of privatization of facilities management were regrettable, his own opinion, and not the official position of the statewide University system.

Going forward, I remain committed to the University continuing to be engaged in this process until we have been presented the necessary, valid information for making an informed decision whether to opt in or out.

The review is still in progress. The state is doing its job by considering ways to save money and we will continue to cooperate with the process while awaiting an opportunity to review a verification of cost analysis by a third party.

Tuesday, Feb. 16 is the day of our next scheduled meeting with state and other officials involved in the review. It is another step in an ongoing process, and I am neither expected to, nor do I have any intention to, make a decision on Tuesday.

Thank you for all you do for the University.

All the best,

Joe