State Facilities Management Initiative Update

University of Tennessee faculty and staff statewide,
 
A group of officials with the state, Tennessee Board of Regents and UT have been at work for several months. The team recently reached a point at which the business rationale for moving forward was not validated. In particular, comparisons by a consulting firm (Whitestone) showed that UT maintenance costs are below comparisons, which didn't support the business rationale for outsourcing.
 
At this time, those comparisons are to be reviewed again to make sure they are an "apples to apples" comparison with UT costs. This review is expected take a few months to accomplish. 
 
Meanwhile, work will continue on the state’s Request for Qualifications document that would be required as a next step in this process, regardless of whether higher education is involved. 
 
It continues to be our understanding that higher education will have multiple decision points in the remaining process to opt out of the program. Whether or not we opt out will be based on what makes the most business sense to the University, which is more than just dollars and cents.
 
I understand and regret that the process has created anxiety among our staff. Please know that what’s in the best interests of the University and our employees is a priority for us. 
 
All the best,
Joe