01/18/2016

· And the hits just keep on rolling…a couple of us have been recognized for achievements recently.
o At its November 2015 annual conference, the Tennessee Chapter of the American Public Works Association (TCAPWA) presented awards to several public works professionals. One of the awards given annually is the Frank Kirk Meritorious Service Award. Frank served as the first executive director of TCAPWA and was, at one time, an MTAS public works consultant. That award was given to Sharon Rollins. Sharon has served the chapter as a board member and secretary for many years and the award recognizes the time and contributions she has made to the profession and the public works sector in Tennessee. Congratulations, Sharon.
o Patrick Mills received his bachelor’s degree in December, having majored in Political Science. Way to go, Patrick!

· As a result of action in last year’s legislative session, a requirement has been placed on cities to have documented and adopted internal controls, particularly for financial matters. The requirement is effective June 30, 2016. A series of six (6) MAP classes has been scheduled in March, the purposes of which is to assist cities in understanding and working towards compliance with the requirement. Patrick sent out a revised MAP class schedule earlier today and it includes the dates and location of the classes. Help make sure the cities you work with are aware of the classes and encourage their participation in them.

· Recently, an article appeared in the Catchup that reminded us all that the University has negotiated certain benefits with several hotels that serve MTAS travelers well. For instance, free parking. I frequently stay at the Hilton in Knoxville and self-parking there is $14 plus tax a day. I don’t know what valet parking costs. Never tried it. But just this week alone, I would have paid $50+ to park at the Hilton. Yes, I know. Parking is an allowable travel expense, but if I don’t have to pay it, I save MTAS a bunch of money each year. So, to my point. Be very familiar with
http://treasurer.tennessee.edu/travel/hotelinfo.html and be sure to use the appropriate corporate code for the hotel you’re making a reservation with.

· Today is the deadline to have the annually required conflict of interest disclosure forms completed. We’re in good shape there. Over the past couple weeks as we’ve worked on those, some interesting questions have arisen and I think we’ve dispensed with all of them. As a reminder, the form can (and certainly should) be updated anytime any of us take on a new assignment that the disclosure addresses. If you’re wondering if updating yours is necessary, don’t wonder too long. Let Rick or me help with your question.

· The University Avenue open house went very well yesterday as did the naming of the MTAS library for Robert Watson. It was good to see a great turnout of UTK and UT system staffs and friends of Mr. Watson. Thanks to the Knoxville IPS and MTAS office folks for welcoming our guests and helping with the event.

· Many times as we do work for our town and city customers, we prepare reports in which some photography or art work enhances the “look” of the document. What’s the old saying? A picture is worth a thousand words (I wonder who calculated that). Just as we have a responsibility to protect the integrity and use of our original work, we have that same responsibility towards the work of others. So, take an extra minute to be sure the photo or art work you intend to download and use in your document doesn’t have any copyright restrictions. That’s not to say it can’t be used if it does, but permission must be granted first. Frances can help you with that process if it’s needed. Also, there is an extensive photo library available on the IPS I drive under PHOTO LIBRARY. Also, if there is a particular photograph or photographic theme you’re interested in and can’t find it, Susan Robertson will be glad to help you. Thanks for your attention to this.

· Lastly, remember a few things…
o What each of you do every day for our customers and each other is recognized and appreciated.
o “All the adversity I've had in my life, all my troubles and obstacles, have strengthened me... You may not realize it when it happens, but a kick in the teeth may be the best thing in the world for you.” – Walt Disney
o Golf Digest suggests that the odds of a golfer getting two (2) holes-in-one in the same 18-hole round of golf is 1 in 162,562,500. Surely your life is fulfilled knowing this.

Have a comfortable (and long holiday) weekend.

Jim Thomas, Executive Director
UT Municipal Technical Advisory Service
(O) 615. 532.4950 (C) 615.972.9219

jim.thomas@tennessee.edu

www.mtas.tennessee.edu