04/09/2015

Fellow MTASers,
 
Earlier this week, we presented the proposed MTAS FY2016 budget to Herb.  The presentation went smoothly and the conversations that arose were productive and meaningful.  To me, the meeting served as one more example of the keen interest and strong desire to best understand MTAS that Herb holds.
 
The proposed budget contains no new positions, programs or initiatives…basically status quo.  Even though the Governor’s budget (which is yet to be adopted by the Legislature) provides for a very modest increase in MTAS’s state appropriation, anticipated increases in expenses will consume most of it.  As you’ll see in the summary below, we expect to conclude the next budget year (2016) with a small surplus balance…something we also expect to do in this current budget year (2015).
 
The budget has a 3% pool built into it for salary improvements…something that’s very important to all of us.  But first, a couple thoughts.  That pool is partially dependent on the Governor’s budget being adopted, the draft of which does have some money in it for MTAS salary improvements.  We should know about that very soon.  Also, how that pool is to be used (across-the-board, merit, market, etc.) has not been decided.  Obviously, when these variables are decided on, you’ll hear more about them from me.
 
The University requires that our budget cover five years.  Below is a very basic summary that tells the “bottom line” story.  While I cringe at seeing red ink anywhere in a budget document like we see in some outlying years, I’m not overly concerned right now because I know that budgetary issues are constantly changing and we’ll work every day to deliver our services with the highest of quality and efficiency.
 

 
Let me know if you have questions.  There’s a whole lot of detail behind the numbers in the summary above and I’ll be happy to discuss any of it with you if needed.
 
Lastly, know that the tremendous work you do for our customers and for each other…and how you do it…is noticed and greatly appreciated.  Thank you for all of it.
 
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