Municipal Technical Advisory Service
Knowledgebase
Displaying 501 - 1000 of 1863 Knowledgebase documents.
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Displaying 2 of 4 pages.
| Drafting a Sewer Ordinance General (Created: 2004-11-05; Reviewed: 2021-07-26 ) Guidelines for ordinance and statute drafting. |
| Drain Easements in Selected Tennessee Cities Survey (Created: 2019-02-01; Reviewed: 2020-07-08 ) Nine Tennessee cities were surveyed to find out how they handle drainage easements. |
| Drainage Law and the Responsibility of the Design Engineer General (Created: 2022-03-25; Reviewed: 2022-05-27 ) A PowerPoint presentation for the Tennessee section of ASCE. |
| Drainage Problems of Private Property Owners Legal Opinion (Created: 2003-06-03; Reviewed: 2020-07-08 ) MTAS was asked to analyze the law relative to drainage problems with respect to private property owners. |
| Drainage Work Notice Form (Created: 2015-06-17; Reviewed: 2020-10-07 ) This drainage notice letter template may be used to notify property owners that maintenance activities will be conducted on a drainage way that crosses their property. |
| Drainage Work on Private Property General (Created: 2005-03-08; Reviewed: 2021-04-15 ) MTAS was asked to provide technical assistance on issue of public works department doing work on private property. |
| Drug and Alcohol Testing of City Employees Legal Opinion (Created: 2014-10-30; Reviewed: 2021-06-15 ) MTAS was asked whether all city employees may be tested for drugs and alcohol. |
| Drug Forfeiture Funds Legal Opinion (Created: 2002-02-21; Reviewed: 2021-06-29 ) MTAS was asked whether money received from fines and forfeitures in drug cases may be used to make a contribution to a law enforcement association or for police training. |
| Drug Task Force Financial Officer Job Description (Created: 2002-09-26; Reviewed: 2021-05-12 ) Job description for the position of Drug Task Force Financial Officer. |
| Duties and Responsibilities of a Fire Chief Report/Study (Created: 2000-11-02; Reviewed: 2021-07-12 ) Discusses the duties and responsibilities of the Paris, Tennessee, Fire Chief. |
| Duties and Time Allocation for Street Department Employees: an MTAS Survey Survey (Created: 2011-02-28; Reviewed: 2020-07-16 ) Twelve cities were asked several questions about the duties and time allocation for their street department employees. |
| E-mail and Open Records Law Legal Opinion (Created: 2001-09-05; Reviewed: 2021-07-20 ) MTAS was asked whether the Tennessee Public Records Law applies to e-mail sent by a city official. |
| E-mail Distribution By City and City-Wide Wifi Analytics Disclosure General (Created: 2017-01-12; Reviewed: 2021-04-26 ) MTAS responds to questions regarding emails distributed by the city to residents and the legal risks of installing wireless internet connections in a downtown area of the city. |
| Economic Development Assessment Form Form (Created: 2009-04-01; Reviewed: 2021-06-18 ) An economic development assessment survey form. |
| Economic Development Director Job Description (Created: 2004-01-19; Reviewed: 2021-04-28 ) A job description for the position of Economic Development Director. |
| Economic Development Director Job Description Job Description (Created: 2016-09-14; Reviewed: 2021-06-18 ) A job description for the position of Economic Development Director. |
| Economic Development Review of the Fayetteville-Lincoln County, Tennessee Joint Industrial Board Report/Study (Created: 2010-03-31; Reviewed: 2021-06-18 ) MTAS was asked to provide an economic development review, which is intended to review the organization, operations, and strategies that may assist in promoting economic development. |
| Education Funding as It Relates to the Distribution of the County Property Tax and Wheel Tax Revenues General (Created: 2014-06-26; Reviewed: 2021-06-21 ) The county may direct that wheel tax revenues be used to support the county school system, thereby allowing the county to reduce the property tax levy dedicated for school purposes. MTAS was asked about the impact of such a change on county revenues received by the school system and school maintenance of effort issues. |
| Education Revenues Legal Opinion (Created: 2004-11-23; Reviewed: 2021-06-21 ) MTAS was asked to research the sharing by county of certain education funds. |
| Educational Assistance in Tennessee Cities and Selected Airports Survey (Created: 2020-10-06; Reviewed: 2021-06-15 ) An online survey was sent to 111 email addresses for human resources directors and other positions holding these responsibilities. A total of 66 responses were received regarding educational assistance for city and airport employees in the state. |
| Educational Assistance Survey Survey (Created: 2017-01-24; Reviewed: 2021-05-07 ) Thirteen cities were asked several questions about educational assistance opportunities, tuition reimbursement, and requirements for employees to participate in their educational assistance programs. |
| Effect of the Mayor's Veto Legal Opinion (Created: 2002-08-27; Reviewed: 2021-07-07 ) MTAS was asked to analyze the law governing the mayor's veto power. |
| Effective Council Meetings Course Manual General (Created: 2003-11-11; Reviewed: 2021-06-25 ) Course manual for City University Course. |
| Effective Date of the Incorporation of a City Legal Opinion (Created: 1999-03-03; Reviewed: 2021-05-14 ) MTAS was asked when the incorporation of a city is considered effective. |
| Elected Official Acknowledgement of Ethics and Conflict of Interest Policy Form (Created: 2017-01-11; Reviewed: 2021-06-25 ) A signature form for use by elected officials who receive and read the town's ethics policy. |
| Election of Municipal Court Clerk Legal Opinion (Created: 1992-12-28; Reviewed: 2021-07-27 ) MTAS was asked whether Barrett requires the clerk of a municipal court exercising concurrent jurisdiction to be elected. |
| Election of Municipal Judges with Concurrent General Sessions Jurisdiction Legal Opinion (Created: 1998-11-18; Reviewed: 2021-07-27 ) MTAS was asked whether the City can provide for the election of the city judge in the April city election. |
| Electric & Hybrid Vehicle Fire Resource Information General (Created: 2022-05-18; Reviewed: 2022-05-18 ) The author of this document explains the number of all electric and hybrid vehicles are on the road with the number of them expected to increase. The listed resources are provided to assist fire departments and other first responders with their local training program on electric and hybrid vehicle fires. |
| Electric System Director Job Description Job Description (Created: 2005-02-14; Reviewed: 2021-05-12 ) Job description and management responsibilities for the position of Electric System Director. |
| Electrical Operating Superintendent Job Description (Created: 2002-09-26; Reviewed: 2021-05-12 ) Job description for the position of Electrical Operating Superintendent. |
| Electrical Technician Job Description (Created: 2002-09-26; Reviewed: 2021-05-12 ) Job description for the position of Electrical Technician. |
| Eligibility of Chamber of Commerce Employees for City-Provided Benefits Legal Opinion (Created: 2019-09-01; Reviewed: 2021-04-21 ) A legal opinion was requested of MTAS addressing whether individuals who work for the local Chamber of Commerce are legally eligible for benefits provided to employees of the city. |
| Eliminating the Carbon Monoxide Detector Requirements in the 2012 International Building Code and International Residential Code General (Created: 2016-08-23; Reviewed: 2021-05-28 ) MTAS was asked whether it is permissible to eliminate the carbon monoxide detector requirements in the 2012 IBC and IRC and if that complies with standards adopted by the State Fire Marshal. |
| Elizabethton/Carter County Animal Control Study Report/Study (Created: 2022-06-02; Reviewed: 2022-07-22 ) Former MTAS Management Consultant Pat Hardy and CTAS Consultant Rick Hall worked together on a study of animal control and animal shelters in both Carter County and Elizabethton, Tennessee. Both the city and county were seeking information on how to handle animal control and shelter responsibilities more efficiently. |
| Emergency Management Director Survey Results Survey (Created: 2016-03-29; Reviewed: 2021-07-12 ) Twenty-nine cities and organizations were asked whether they have an emergency management director and salary information for that position. |
| Emergency Management for Municipalities in Tennessee General (Created: 2009-02-12; Reviewed: 2021-07-12 ) MTAS was asked whether a city should have an emergency management director. |
| Emergency Medical Services Executive Director Job Description (Created: 2012-10-04; Reviewed: 2021-07-12 ) Job description for the position of the Executive Director of Emergency Medical Services (EMS). |
| Emergency Right of Way Press Release Template Form (Created: 2014-05-15; Reviewed: 2020-10-07 ) This is a resource for a local fire department to use to raise community awareness of the need for drivers to yield to emergency vehicles and to move over for stopped emergency vehicles. |
| Emergent Leave Ordinance Ordinance (Created: 2021-02-01; Reviewed: 2023-02-03 ) MTAS Management Consultant Honna Rogers authored this ordinance for the Town of Tracy City, Tennessee that expands employee leave benefits in response to emergent circumstances such as public health emergencies. |
| Employee Firearms Resolution Model Resolution (Created: 2019-12-10; Reviewed: 2021-07-30 ) This document is a sample resolution Tennessee cities can use with regards to employees carrying a firearm. |
| Employee Handbook Information General (Created: 2013-09-09; Reviewed: 2021-05-18 ) MTAS was asked about the benefits of having an employee handbook; includes two examples of handbooks. |
| Employee Performance Evaluations in Selected Tennessee Cities Survey (Created: 2021-04-29; Reviewed: 2021-04-30 ) Twenty-two Tennessee cities responded for a request for information regarding their methods for employee performance evaluations. |
| Employee Safety Measures Legal Opinion (Created: 2002-10-01; Reviewed: 2021-06-15 ) MTAS was asked to address several personnel safety issues. |
| Employee Seeking Promotion Treated Like Other Candidates General (Created: 2012-07-19; Reviewed: 2021-04-28 ) MTAS was asked whether there is any protection of the candidacy information of an employee who is seeking a promotion. |
| Employee Service Awards for Retirement and Employee Recognition Programs: MTAS Library Survey Survey (Created: 2010-06-24; Reviewed: 2021-05-18 ) Sixteen cities were asked about employee recognition programs and service awards for retiring personnel. |
| Employee Surety Bonds Survey (Created: 2021-03-07; Reviewed: 2021-06-25 ) Nine Tennessee cities responded to a request for information regarding what positions in city government are required to have a surety bond and what the required amounts are for those bonds. |
| Employee Testing Survey and Results Survey (Created: 2014-05-19; Reviewed: 2021-04-28 ) MTAS was asked to prepare an employment testing survey to determine if Tennessee cities conduct pre-employment testing for police, fire, and public safety dispatch applicants; includes the responses of the fifteen participants. |
| Employees Subject to Summary Dismissal by the Mayor Legal Opinion (Created: 2005-02-15; Reviewed: 2021-04-28 ) MTAS was asked which among certain personnel in the city occupy at will positions of employment subject to summary termination by the mayor. |
| Employing Minors in Establishments That Sell Beer Legal Opinion (Created: 1992-08-31; Reviewed: 2021-07-15 ) MTAS was asked whether minors may be employed in establishments that sell beer. |
| Employment Agreement between the Town of Baileyton, Tennessee, and a Wastewater Treatment Operator General (Created: 2012-06-14; Reviewed: 2021-05-12 ) The town wishes to employ an individual for a period of one year in order to determine if they are capable of operating the Town's wastewater treatment plant, a highly regulated facility which must be operated to exact regulations as required by state, local, and federal agencies. |
| Employment Agreement for City Manager General (Created: 2005-12-14; Reviewed: 2021-06-28 ) An employment agreement between the city and the city manager. |
| Employment Contracts between City Manager and Department Heads Legal Opinion (Created: 1993-05-20; Reviewed: 2021-07-08 ) MTAS was asked whether the Commissioners of the City may enter into an "employment agreement" with the Chief of Police. |
| Encryption of Radio Signals General (Created: 2001-03-29; Reviewed: 2021-07-12 ) Encryption will keep eavesdroppers from being able to listen to radio transmissions as they happen, but official recordings of the transmissions are public records. |
| Enforcing Municipal Ordinances Outside the City Limits Legal Opinion (Created: 1996-08-19; Reviewed: 2021-04-29 ) MTAS was asked whether it may enforce its ordinances dealing with tall grass, junk cars, and dangerous buildings within one mile of the city limits. |
| Engineer Codes Official Job Description (Created: 2002-09-25; Reviewed: 2021-04-19 ) Job description for the position of Engineer/Codes Official. |
| Engineer/Sewer/Codes Official Job Description (Created: 2003-06-26; Reviewed: 2021-04-28 ) A job description for the position of Engineer/Sewer/Codes Official. |
| Engineering Technician (1) Job Description (Created: 2002-08-02; Reviewed: 2021-04-15 ) Job description for the position of Engineering Technician for the City of Belmont. |
| Englewood Debt Management Policy General (Created: 2011-09-20; Reviewed: 2021-04-22 ) MTAS was asked to customize the model debt policy based on a percentage of expenditures. |
| Enhancing the Economic Vitality of the Central Business District General (Created: 2015-12-11; Reviewed: 2021-06-18 ) MTAS provided several approaches that have been successfully employed in other Tennessee cities to accomplish this objective. |
| Ensuring Effective Municipal Service Delivery to Diverse Constituents: Preparing Tennessee Cities to Serve Changing Communities Report/Study (Created: 2015-12-05; Reviewed: 2017-06-05 ) The purpose of this MTAS-sponsored research study is three-fold, 1) identify current diversity initiatives (e.g. training programs, resources, and programming) within Tennessee municipalities that prepare local government employees to serve diverse populations, 2) identify existing service delivery initiatives that serve diverse local constituents in Tennessee municipalities (e.g. language materials, etc.), 3) identify future diversity-related training and resources most beneficial to the municipality in serving diverse constituents. The central research question is, 'In what ways can Tennessee municipalities better prepare to serve an increasingly diverse public?' |
| Entitlement of the City to In Lieu of Taxes from an Electric System Legal Opinion (Created: 1995-06-06; Reviewed: 2021-07-01 ) MTAS was asked whether the city is entitled to in lieu of taxes from an electric system with respect to the system's property in the city. |
| Entry Level Firefighter Job Description Job Description (Created: 2005-07-01; Reviewed: 2021-05-21 ) A job description for an entry level firefighter for the City of Dayton. |
| Establishing a Debt Policy and a Fund Balance Policy for the Town of Altamont Ordinance (Created: 2011-09-14; Reviewed: 2021-04-22 ) MTAS was asked to provide ordinances to establish a debt policy and a fund balance policy for the Town of Altamont. |
| Establishing an Economic Development Program General (Created: 2003-03-24; Reviewed: 2021-06-18 ) The City of Medina requested MTAS to assist in establishing an economic development program. |
| Establishing Municipal Boundaries When Annexation Records Are Not Available General (Created: 2011-05-16; Reviewed: 2021-07-21 ) MTAS was asked to assist in determining municipal boundaries for Altamont, Tennessee with missing annexation records. |
| Establishment of a City Environmental Court Legal Opinion (Created: 2009-06-24; Reviewed: 2021-07-27 ) MTAS was asked about the establishment of an environmental court in the city and the organizational implications such a court would have on the existing city court. |
| Evaluating an RFP/RFQ for Consulting Services Form (Created: 2015-08-31; Reviewed: 2021-07-29 ) This RFP evaluation scoresheet is a template that can be modified for projects other than selecting consulting services. |
| Evaluation of City Manager Form (Created: 2019-12-11; Reviewed: 2021-05-12 ) This is a form that can be used to evaluate a City Manager in any town or city in Tennessee. |
| Eviction Notices General (Created: 2006-12-18; Reviewed: 2021-06-28 ) MTAS assisted in writing an eviction notice and a request to vacate to the tenants in a city-owned building. |
| Example of a Monthly Administrative Report Report/Study (Created: 2013-12-11; Reviewed: 2021-07-08 ) MTAS was asked for an example of a monthly administrative report that a city manager might present to the mayor and city council. |
| Excess Funds in Public Improvement Bond General (Created: 2014-01-08; Reviewed: 2021-04-22 ) MTAS was asked whether excess funds that remained from a public improvement bond called to complete required subdivision work should be returned to the surety company. |
| Exclusive Franchises for Sewer Treatment Services Legal Opinion (Created: 2001-02-16; Reviewed: 2021-04-22 ) There is sufficient authority for this town to grant an exclusive franchise for sewer service to one entity. |
| Executive Secretary City Manager's Office Job Description (Created: 2002-09-24; Reviewed: 2021-04-26 ) Job description for the position of Executive Secretary City Manager's Office. |
| Executive Secretary II for Engineering and Development Services Job Description (Created: 2002-09-24; Reviewed: 2021-04-28 ) Job description for the position of Executive Secretary II for Engineering and Development Services. |
| Exempt and Non-Exempt Cities Under the State Fire Marshal's Building and Fire Code General (Created: 2003-10-31; Reviewed: 2021-07-22 ) MTAS was asked the difference between an exempt and nonexempt city under the State Fire Marshal's Building and Fire Code. |
| Exemption from Application of the State Fire Marshal's Minimum Statewide Standards under T.C.A. 68-120-101 General (Created: 2014-03-27; Reviewed: 2021-05-14 ) MTAS was asked whether the town is authorized to issue building permits and conduct inspections on the new county elementary school. |
| Exotic Animals Law in Tennessee Legal Opinion (Created: 2001-10-08; Reviewed: 2021-07-16 ) MTAS was asked if Tennessee has an exotic animals law and if private property owners are prohibited from keeping pythons. |
| Expending Municipal Funds to Relocate Sewer, Water, and Gas Mechanical Equipment at the Request of a Property Owner Legal Opinion (Created: 1995-01-11; Reviewed: 2021-05-27 ) MTAS was asked about the legality of expending municipal funds to relocate sewer, water and gas mechanical equipment at the request of a property owner who wishes to backfill his property. |
| Extraterritorial Arrests Legal Opinion (Created: 2011-06-14; Reviewed: 2021-05-12 ) MTAS was asked under what authority police officers have the right to arrest and pursue defendants outside the territorial limits of the city. |
| Facebook Posting Sufficiency for Notice of Public Meeting Legal Opinion (Created: 2022-04-25; Reviewed: 2022-05-10 ) MTAS Legal Consultant Melissa Ashburn replied to a request for information regarding pending legislation on public meeting notices. Ashburn goes on to explain that a Facebook posting is not sufficient alone to satisfy open meeting requirements. |
| Facilities Management Report/Study (Created: 2014-10-31; Reviewed: 2021-06-21 ) MTAS was asked to evaluate the city's management structure for facility maintenance because of the city's major capital investment in its facilities and the ongoing operational costs associated with their maintenance and repair. |
| Facilities Usage Policies and Procedures: an MTAS Survey Survey (Created: 2005-06-15; Reviewed: 2021-06-21 ) Nine cities were asked about allowing park facilities or community centers to be used by concert venues or large events that are not city sponsored. |
| Failure of the Local Government to Substantially Comply with the Public Hearing Notice Legal Opinion (Created: 1998-09-28; Reviewed: 2021-05-05 ) MTAS was asked whether the failure of the local government to substantially comply with the public hearing notice and other procedural requirements prescribed by the state law is jurisdictional rather than directory. |
| Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) "Administrative" Exemption Test Form (Created: 2016-11-28; Reviewed: 2021-06-15 ) MTAS was asked to develop forms for FLSA exemption "tests" for use in cities. |
| Fairview, Tennessee, Fire Station Location Study Report/Study (Created: 2011-04-30; Reviewed: 2021-07-12 ) The study's purpose is to answer this question: Where should Fairview place its fire stations to provide coverage for the City of Fairview and Fairview's response district based upon the maximum five-mile coverage area allowed by ISO? |
| Families First Coronavirus Response Act: A Summary for Tennessee Municipalities General (Created: 2020-03-24; Reviewed: 2021-04-15 ) A summary of the federal Families First Coronavirus Response Act (signed into law March 18, 2020) to assist employers and employees during the pandemic. |
| Farmer's Market Insurance in Selected Tennessee Cities Survey (Created: 2018-07-01; Reviewed: 2021-07-15 ) Ten cities in Tennessee were surveyed regarding farmer's markets and insurance for the vendors. |
| Farmers' Markets in Tennessee Cities General (Created: 2015-04-13; Reviewed: 2021-07-28 ) MTAS was asked for information on what a city needs to know to host a farmers' market inside the city limits, including rules, regulations, and vendor applications. |
| Fees and Policies for Grinder Pumps in Selected Tennessee Cities Survey (Created: 2018-05-15; Reviewed: 2021-06-22 ) MTAS surveyed a number of Tennessee cities regarding their fees and policies for grinder pumps. |
| Fees Sent to State by City Courts Legal Opinion (Created: 2006-12-14; Reviewed: 2021-07-27 ) MTAS was asked several questions about fees/costs sent to the State for violations tried in city court. |
| Filing Suit for Collection of Delinquent Real Property Taxes Legal Opinion (Created: 2003-11-21; Reviewed: 2021-07-16 ) MTAS was asked about the procedure for collecting delinquent property taxes when the county taxes have been paid. |
| Filling Vacancies in the City's School Board Legal Opinion (Created: 2006-07-25; Reviewed: 2021-07-16 ) MTAS was asked whether the school board chairman's appointment to fill the vacancy on the school board was legal. |
| Final Regulations: Volunteers and the Affordable Care Act General (Created: 2014-02-17; Reviewed: 2021-05-21 ) In summary, hours worked by a volunteer who does not receive (and is not entitled to receive) compensation in exchange for the performance of services are not treated as hours of service for purposes of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA). |
| Finance Director Interview Questions Form (Created: 2022-10-03; Reviewed: 2023-02-03 ) MTAS Management Consultant Honna Rogers created this list of interview questions to be used by the City of Manchester, Tennessee during a search for a new Finance Director. |
| Financial and Operational Issues for a Sewer Line to Serve the TVA Watts Bar Nuclear Plant. Report/Study (Created: 2005-08-26; Reviewed: 2021-06-22 ) MTAS was asked to assist Spring City with financial and operational issues regarding the sewer line being constructed to serve the TVA Watts Bar Nuclear Plant. |
| Financial Audit Advertisement Form (Created: 2010-09-09; Reviewed: 2021-07-01 ) A sample advertisement for an auditor who is qualified to perform a financial and compliance audit. |
| Fines for Violation of Town Ordinances General (Created: 2007-04-02; Reviewed: 2021-07-27 ) MTAS was asked how much the fine can be and if a separate fine can be assessed for each day of a violation. |
| Fire Chaplains Program Challenged Establishment Cause Grounds Legal Opinion (Created: 2002-03-22; Reviewed: 2021-05-20 ) MTAS was asked whether there has been a case where a fire chaplain program has been challenged on establishment clause grounds. |
| Fire Chief Job Description (Created: 2001-08-23; Reviewed: 2021-04-28 ) Job description for the position of Fire Chief for the City of Smyrna. |
| Fire Chief (1) Job Description (Created: 2002-09-25; Reviewed: 2021-05-21 ) Job description for the position of Fire Chief. |
| Fire Chief (2) Job Description (Created: 2002-09-25; Reviewed: 2021-05-20 ) Job description for the position of Fire Chief. |
| Fire Chief Is In The Driver's Seat General (Created: 2001-09-13; Reviewed: 2021-05-20 ) An article answering the question regarding the responsibility and scheduling of the Fire Chief's position in a fire department. |
| Fire Chief Sample Job Descriptions Job Description (Created: 2013-09-12; Reviewed: 2021-05-21 ) A collection of several sample job descriptions for the position of fire chief; includes job descriptions for fire chiefs of a volunteer fire department. |
| Fire Department Headquarters Station Design Review Report/Study (Created: 2020-01-09; Reviewed: 2023-01-13 ) MTAS Fire Consultant Steve Cross authored this study for Ashland City regarding their fire department headquarters station design. |
| Fire Department Hose Test Record Form (Created: 2021-04-29; Reviewed: 2021-07-12 ) This form was created to be used by any fire department and includes a method for testing fire hoses. |
| Fire Department Major Job Description (Created: 2003-08-27; Reviewed: 2021-07-12 ) A job description for the position of Fire Department Executive Officer with the rank of Major. |
| Fire Department Minimum Staffing Survey Survey (Created: 2020-06-10; Reviewed: 2021-07-12 ) Selected Tennessee cities responded to a request for information regarding the staffing numbers in their fire departments. |
| Fire Department Recognition Bill General (Created: 2003-02-26; Reviewed: 2021-07-12 ) This information from a TFCA flyer answers questions about the Fire Department Recognition Bill. |
| Fire Department Schedule Report/Study (Created: 2001-08-01; Reviewed: 2021-05-21 ) Proposed 28-day schedule for a fire department working a 24/48 shift pattern, including meal time deduction and kelly day. |
| Fire Department Sick Leave Policies Survey (Created: 2007-05-25; Reviewed: 2021-05-20 ) TPMA sent out a survey to determine how municipalities handle sick leave for Fire Department employees and received fourteen responses. |
| Fire Department Standard Operating Procedure: Fire Department Vehicle Safety, Emergency and Non-Emergency Response, Safe Emergency Operations on Roadways General (Created: 2010-06-30; Reviewed: 2021-07-22 ) This procedure identifies requirements for the implementation of a safe Fire Department vehicle operations program. |
| Fire Department Training Records General (Created: 2003-08-25; Reviewed: 2021-05-21 ) Fire Department records for training and personnel are open for inspection upon demand during any reasonable hours. |
| Fire Drills in Schools and ISO Credit Form (Created: 2018-07-26; Reviewed: 2021-05-21 ) Section 1000 of the ISO Fire Suppression Rating Schedule evaluates the community risk reduction efforts in a community. Part of Section 1032B1, Fire Safety Education in Schools, evaluates fire safety efforts in schools, including the conducting of monthly fire drills. This section requires that “Each school must conduct 1 fire exit drill, in accordance with the general criteria of NFPA 101, Life Safety Code, or the ICC International Fire Code each month that the campus is in session.” |
| Fire Hydrant Cost, Installation, and Maintenance in Selected Municipalities Survey (Created: 2021-09-15; Reviewed: 2022-03-11 ) Eight Tennessee cities responded to a request for information regarding the procedures and costs for installation of fire hydrants. |
| Fire Hydrant Flow Test Results Calculator General (Created: 2015-02-26; Reviewed: 2021-07-12 ) This spreadsheet may be downloaded to calculate the results of fire hydrant flow tests. |
| Fire Hydrants and Potential Fees in Municipal Water Systems Report/Study (Created: 2020-11-11; Reviewed: 2023-02-16 ) The State of Tennessee Fire Marshal's Office requested assistance in answering customer questions regarding municipal water systems and fire hydrant fees. According to the M1 Manual of Water Supply Practices published by the American Water Works Association, there are three approaches to allocating the costs associated with fire protection in municipalities. |
| Fire Inspection Quality Assurance Survey Form (Created: 2018-07-25; Reviewed: 2021-05-21 ) This form is a sample survey that cities can use as follow up after a fire code compliance inspection. |
| Fire Investigator Mentor Program General (Created: 2008-11-14; Reviewed: 2021-05-20 ) This Fire Investigator Mentor Program has been endorsed by the Tennessee Chapter of the International Association of Arson Investigators (IAAI) and recognized by the IAAI as an excellent program in training and qualifying new fire investigators. |
| Fire Positions Exempted from Tennessee Consolidated Retirement System Mandatory Retirement at Age 60 Survey (Created: 2017-09-01; Reviewed: 2021-07-22 ) A survey of selected cities to determine if their battalion chief or shift caption positions are exempted from the Tennessee Consolidated Retirement System mandatory retirement for public safety positions at age 60. |
| Fire Shift Commanders and Assistant Chief Salary and Organizational Structure Survey (Created: 2018-02-01; Reviewed: 2021-07-22 ) Selected Tennessee cities were surveyed regarding their fire departments and the organizational structure. |
| Fire Shift Supervisor Survey Survey (Created: 2014-12-04; Reviewed: 2021-05-20 ) Eight cities responded to this survey that asks about the position that is responsible for the supervision of two or more fire stations and their crews. |
| Fire Stations and Coronavirus Precautions: A Hot Topic for Tennessee Municipalities General (Created: 2020-03-27; Reviewed: 2021-07-22 ) Firefighters understand the concept of hot, warm, and cold zones in fire stations when it comes to keeping turnouts and fire contaminated gear out of the living areas of the station. But what about viruses and other pathogens? The practices used for fire contaminated gear do not work with pathogens. Therefore, firefighters need to practice more extensive contamination control to reduce the chance of spreading the coronavirus while at the fire station. |
| Fire Support Specialist Job Description (Created: 2017-04-24; Reviewed: 2021-05-21 ) A sample job description for a fire support specialist. |
| Fire Support Specialist Job Description (Created: 2017-03-03; Reviewed: 2021-05-21 ) A sample job description for a Fire Support Specialist. |
| Fire Watch Policy Form (Created: 2016-02-08; Reviewed: 2021-05-21 ) This sample fire watch policy provides for the continuous presence of a trained person, who maintains a constant fire watch, while the required fire protection system is out of service. |
| Firefighter Job Description (Created: 2002-09-25; Reviewed: 2021-05-21 ) Job description for the position of Firefighter. |
| Firefighter Driver Job Description (Created: 2002-09-25; Reviewed: 2021-05-21 ) Job description for the position of Firefighter/Driver. |
| Firefighter Mechanic Job Description (Created: 2002-09-25; Reviewed: 2021-05-20 ) Job description for the position of Firefighter/Mechanic. |
| Firefighter Training and Certification in Tennessee General (Created: 2021-04-29; Reviewed: 2021-07-22 ) MTAS Fire Consultant Dennis Wolf created this document in order to compile information from frequently asked questions regarding what training firefighters are required to have. |
| Firefighter Training in Tennessee General (Created: 2021-02-11; Reviewed: 2021-02-11 ) MTAS is often asked about what training firefighters are required to have. The answer is that, from a standpoint of required training, the training requirements for firefighters vary from none-at-all to minimal. The key word in this question is “required,” being defined as mandatory by a state law or regulation. |
| Firefighter Vacation Accrual in Selected Tennessee Cities Survey (Created: 2019-04-15; Reviewed: 2021-07-22 ) MTAS asked a number of Tennessee cities how they handle vacation accrual for firefighters. |
| Firefighters as Auxiliary Police Officers and Dispatcher Psychological Assessment Survey Survey (Created: 2019-07-01; Reviewed: 2021-06-29 ) A survey of selected cities and towns regarding allowing firefighters to serve auxiliary police officers and also the psychological assessment of dispatchers. |
| Firefighters Driving on a License from Another State General (Created: 2014-04-03; Reviewed: 2021-05-20 ) MTAS was asked whether, in Tennessee, firefighters are required to have a valid Tennessee driver's license to operate vehicles and work in the full capacity of a fire fighter. |
| Firefighters Must Have Key to Fire Station General (Created: 2006-09-19; Reviewed: 2021-05-21 ) If a fire station is locked when not occupied, then all firefighters must have a key. |
| Firefighters Vacation Accrual Summary Report Survey (Created: 2010-03-23; Reviewed: 2021-05-20 ) Eighteen cities were asked about vacation leave for full-time employees of the fire department. |
| Fireworks Sample Ordinance Ordinance (Created: 2006-10-19; Reviewed: 2021-05-21 ) An ordinance to add Chapter 4, "Fireworks," to Title 7 of the City of ______ Municipal Code. |
| Firing the City Attorney Legal Opinion (Created: 2000-11-29; Reviewed: 2021-07-25 ) MTAS was asked for whom the City Attorney works and if the City Attorney may be fired. |
| First Responder Compensation Survey Survey (Created: 2020-10-23; Reviewed: 2021-05-21 ) Ten Tennessee cities responded to a request for information regarding compensation for experienced, certified and entry level first responders. |
| First Responders and Fireworks Incidents Survey Survey (Created: 2020-08-21; Reviewed: 2021-05-21 ) Six Tennessee cities responded to a request for information regarding first responders having fireworks shot or directed at them while on-duty. |
| Fiscal Recovery Fund (FRF) Overview General (Created: 2021-09-21; Reviewed: 2021-09-21 ) As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and its effects on economies, the federal government passed the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) on March 11, 2021. It provides for a substantial infusion of fiscal recovery funds into state and local governments throughout the United States. Tennessee was allocated $3.725 billion for use at the state level, and $2.28 billion to be distributed to local governments. This is a guide provides an overview of the funding process. |
| Fitness Facility Manager Job Description (Created: 2001-08-23; Reviewed: 2021-04-28 ) Job description for the position of Fitness Facility Manager for the City of Smyrna. |
| Fitness Facility Manager Job Description Job Description (Created: 2002-09-25; Reviewed: 2021-06-21 ) Job description for the position of Fitness Facility Manager. |
| Flea Market Dealers General (Created: 2003-02-03; Reviewed: 2021-06-18 ) Registering dealers at a multi-vendor open-area flea market that routinely occurs along the Tennessee border and probably has multi-state vendor participation. |
| Fleet and Materials Manager Job Description (Created: 2002-09-24; Reviewed: 2020-10-07 ) Job description for the position of Fleet and Materials Manager. |
| Fleet Maintenance and Operations Schedules Form (Created: 2012-07-12; Reviewed: 2020-10-07 ) Seven checklists for preventive maintenance and inspections. |
| Fleet Maintenance Services Survey Survey (Created: 2014-10-20; Reviewed: 2020-10-07 ) MTAS asked six cities about charging the city's various departments for fleet services. |
| Fleet Management: an MTAS Survey Survey (Created: 2008-11-24; Reviewed: 2020-10-07 ) Ten cities were asked several questions about their fleet management practices. |
| FLSA and Exempt Employees General (Created: 2004-09-29; Reviewed: 2021-06-15 ) MTAS was asked to provide documentation allowing city to send employees home when they have worked 40 hours in workweek. |
| FLSA Questions on Bereavement and Overtime General (Created: 2008-02-01; Reviewed: 2021-06-15 ) Questions on recognizing bereavement leave as hours worked and hours worked over 8 in a day. |
| FMLA and Extended Leave of Absence: an MTAS Survey Survey (Created: 2011-02-14; Reviewed: 2021-06-15 ) Twenty-three cities were asked about their FMLA policies and extended leave of absence policies. |
| FMLA Forms Form (Created: 2015-06-05; Reviewed: 2021-07-29 ) Links to FMLA forms are provided here. |
| FOG Programs in Selected Tennessee Cities Survey (Created: 2019-01-15; Reviewed: 2021-06-22 ) Seven Tennessee cities responded to a request for information on their local FOG programs and the fees that may be associated with the program. |
| Forcing the City to Accept and Maintain Private Streets Located in Privately Owned Residential Developments Legal Opinion (Created: 1991-08-15; Reviewed: 2020-10-07 ) MTAS was asked whether the City can be forced to accept the dedication and ongoing maintenance responsibility for private streets, street lights and storm sewers located within condominium and planned unit developments. |
| Forestry Inspector Job Description (Created: 2007-11-16; Reviewed: 2021-06-21 ) Job description for the position of Forestry Inspector |
| Forestry Supervisor Job Description (Created: 2007-11-15; Reviewed: 2021-06-21 ) Job description for the position of Forestry Supervisor |
| Form for Operating a Business in the City of Lebanon Form (Created: 2000-06-15; Reviewed: 2021-06-18 ) A form to help the city deal with new businesses, providing the applicants with notice to comply with the city's zoning laws. |
| Form of Government, Charter Type, District vs. At-Large Elections and Term Limits in Selected Council/Manager Municipalities Survey (Created: 2019-11-01; Reviewed: 2021-07-20 ) The MTAS Research and Information Center team compiled election and term limit information for a number of selected Tennessee cities. |
| Form of Petition for Liquor Sales Legal Opinion (Created: 2006-09-12; Reviewed: 2021-07-16 ) MTAS was asked for a form of petition for package liquor sales and liquor-by-the-drink sales. |
| Forming a New Police Department General (Created: 1997-07-14; Reviewed: 2021-06-30 ) MTAS was asked several questions about the benefits of forming a new police department versus contracting with the county for police services. |
| Forms to Accompany Capital Asset Accounting System Form (Created: 2003-07-02; Reviewed: 2021-04-22 ) Includes a sample capital asset disposal record, a capital asset ledger card, and a model resolution to establish a threshold that dictates when expenditures may be capitalized. |
| Forms to Accompany the Drug Fund Manual Form (Created: 2003-07-02; Reviewed: 2021-07-06 ) Includes sample forms, description of the forms, and a sample drug fund budget. |
| Fowl Ordinance Comparison Survey (Created: 2010-04-01; Reviewed: 2021-07-08 ) The Town of Signal Mountain asked twenty-four cities whether they had an ordinance regulating chickens within the city limits. |
| Free Water and Sewer Service Provided to School Legal Opinion (Created: 2010-06-30; Reviewed: 2021-04-22 ) MTAS was asked whether it is legal to provide water for free to a public school, and posed further questions about the enforcement of the agreement with the county and school district. |
| Freedom to Protest: Guidance for Managing Demonstrations in Tennessee Towns and Cities General (Created: 2020-06-25; Reviewed: 2021-05-12 ) MTAS guidance on freedom of speech, freedom to assemble and how to handle demonstrations. This is a video resource. (Created June 25, 2020; 7:07 minutes in length) |
| Frequency of Election : Local Option General (Created: 2002-02-15; Reviewed: 2021-07-16 ) Information was requested on the frequency of elections for liquor by the drink. |
| Function and Duties of a Home Rule Charter Commission Legal Opinion (Created: 2008-10-07; Reviewed: 2021-06-18 ) Basic introduction of charter commission candidates to the functions and duties of the charter commission. |
| Gas Tax Distribution General (Created: 2018-01-16; Reviewed: 2021-07-02 ) MTAS responds to questions regarding how the city will receive the new "gax tax" fund. |
| GASB 34 Forms Form (Created: 2004-05-07; Reviewed: 2021-04-22 ) MTAS was requested to provide assistance to Morrison on the implementation of GASB 34; includes a resolution and forms for keeping records. |
| General Fund: Fund Balance Policy General (Created: 2010-09-15; Reviewed: 2021-07-01 ) The Fund Balance Policy is intended to provide guidelines during the preparation and execution of the annual budget to ensure that sufficient reserves are maintained for unanticipated expenditures or revenue shortfalls. The sample policy contains percentages and dollar thresholds for illustrative purposes thus each city should determine the levels of fund balance which best suit their government operations. |
| General Questions Regarding ADA Compliance General (Created: 2018-07-16; Reviewed: 2021-04-15 ) MTAS was asked the following questions: "How the city’s utilities – gas, electric, water/wastewater – should handle ADA compliance?" and "What does the city need in regards to procurement procedures, zoning ordinance and municipal codes?" |
| General Sessions Judge Serving as City Attorney General (Created: 2014-10-23; Reviewed: 2021-07-27 ) MTAS was asked whether a general sessions judge in the county may also serve as an attorney for a town in that jurisdiction. |
| General Sessions Judge Serving as the City Judge for Additional Compensation Legal Opinion (Created: 1993-10-25; Reviewed: 2021-07-27 ) MTAS was asked whether the general sessions judge can serve as the city judge for a salary in addition to his general sessions judge salary. |
| Germantown Fire Department Standard Operating Procedures Report/Study (Created: 2010-07-08; Reviewed: 2021-07-22 ) An SOP from the Germantown Fire Department. |
| Getting an Issue on the Ballot General (Created: 2004-07-07; Reviewed: 2021-06-21 ) MTAS was asked how a citizen goes about getting an issue on the ballot. |
| Gift and Gratuities Acceptance Policies General (Created: 2015-07-26; Reviewed: 2021-07-20 ) MTAS was asked for examples of gift policies or acceptance of gratuities policies. |
| Gift of City Property to an Employee Legal Opinion (Created: 2000-09-26; Reviewed: 2021-07-20 ) MTAS was asked whether the City may give a retiring city official the vehicle he was using for department purposes, as a retirement present. |
| GIS Manager Salary and Job Description Survey Survey (Created: 2018-12-15; Reviewed: 2021-04-15 ) This survey was conducted to gather salary information and job descriptions for GIS staff in selected cities. Responses from 10 cities are included as well as sample job descriptions. |
| GIS Use for Public Works Management Report/Study (Created: 2010-03-30; Reviewed: 2021-04-15 ) This report examines public works entities' use of GIS, budgets, funding, resources, technical support and other pertinent information, broken down by both size of entity and region. |
| Giving a Fire Truck to a Citizen and the Right of a Citizen to Vote at a Commission Meeting General (Created: 2012-04-10; Reviewed: 2021-07-28 ) MTAS was asked about the legality of the city commission giving a fire truck to a citizen and the right of a citizen to vote at a commission meeting. |
| Giving Adequate Public Notice of a Open Meeting Legal Opinion (Created: 1999-12-17; Reviewed: 2021-05-12 ) MTAS was asked about giving adequate public notice of a open meeting. |
| Giving or Selling City Property to a Private Cemetery Association Legal Opinion (Created: 2007-04-25; Reviewed: 2021-07-27 ) MTAS was asked whether the city can give to a private nonprofit cemetery organization, property to be used as a cemetery. |
| Goals and Objectives Plan for the Town of Bell Buckle General (Created: 2014-06-13; Reviewed: 2021-07-23 ) MTAS was asked to assist with strategic planning, focusing on four areas: protect health and safety and maintain basic services; enhance community attractiveness and charm; support economic growth and community sustainability; maintain fiscal integrity and administrative efficiency. |
| Goodlettsville, Tennessee, Comprehensive Fire Management Overview Report/Study (Created: 2012-08-31; Reviewed: 2021-07-22 ) Goodlettsville requested a comprehensive management overview of many city departments including the fire department. This report provides an outside perspective of the city's fire services and future needs. |
| Graffiti Ordinance Ordinance (Created: 2006-10-28; Reviewed: 2021-07-01 ) An ordinance prepared by the Town of Smyrna defining graffiti, dealing with its removal, authorization to use municipal funds, and violations. |
| Grandfathering Fireworks Stands Annexed into the City Legal Opinion (Created: 1994-11-14; Reviewed: 2021-07-16 ) MTAS was asked whether a city can "grandfather" fireworks stands annexed into the city? |
| Grant Coordinator Job Description (Created: 2017-08-18; Reviewed: 2021-05-12 ) Job description for the position of Grant Coordinator. |
| Grant Writers in Selected Tennessee Cities Survey (Created: 2018-03-31; Reviewed: 2021-04-23 ) Thirteen Tennessee cities were surveyed to find out if they employ a full-time grant writer. |
| Grants Analyst 2 Job Description (Created: 2017-09-11; Reviewed: 2021-05-12 ) Job description for the position of Grants Analyst 2 from the State of Tennessee. |
| Grants Specialist, Senior Job Description (Created: 2007-11-01; Reviewed: 2021-05-12 ) Job description for the position of Senior Grants Specialist. |
| Gratuitous Payment for Increased Price of Gasoline Under Garbage Collection Contract Legal Opinion (Created: 2006-03-20; Reviewed: 2021-05-27 ) MTAS was asked whether a city can compensate a contractor for the increased price of gasoline it has taken for the contractor to perform a contract for the city. |
| Greenville Solid Waste Application and Service Agreement Form Form (Created: 2021-07-12; Reviewed: 2021-09-16 ) A sample application and service agreement for solid waste collection provided by the Town of Greeneville, Tennessee. |
| Grievance Hearings and Rights of At Will Employees Legal Opinion (Created: 2011-11-21; Reviewed: 2021-05-18 ) MTAS was asked what rights at will employees have to a grievance hearing on adverse employment actions, and what right such employees have to be represented by counsel. |
| Groundskeeper (Assistant) Job Description (Created: 2001-08-23; Reviewed: 2021-04-28 ) Job description for the position of Groundskeeper (Assistant) for the City of Smyrna. |
| Groundskeeper (Assistant) Job Description (Created: 2002-09-25; Reviewed: 2021-06-21 ) Job description for the position of Groundskeeper, Assistant. |
| Groundskeeper (Head) Job Description (Created: 2001-08-23; Reviewed: 2021-04-28 ) Job description for the position of Groundskeeper (Head) for the City of Smyrna. |
| Groundskeeper (Head) Job Description (Created: 2002-09-25; Reviewed: 2021-06-21 ) Job description for the position of Groundskeeper (Head). |
| Gruetli-Laager Police Department General (Created: 2002-11-22; Reviewed: 2021-07-01 ) MTAS was asked whether the Town of Gruetli-Laager that operates under the general law Mayor-Alderman Charter is required to have a police department. |
| Guide to Alcohol and Beer Laws in Tennessee General (Created: 2020-11-04; Reviewed: 2023-01-25 ) MTAS frequently receive questions related to alcohol and beer laws in Tennessee. In an effort to assist municipal officials and employees with these questions, MTAS developed this guide that includes many of the relevant statutory provisions related to alcohol and beer in Tennessee. This guide does not include every statutory provision related to alcohol or beer, so the Tennessee Code will still need to be reviewed as questions arise. |
| Guidelines for Open Burning of Natural Disaster Debris General (Created: 2021-12-02; Reviewed: 2021-12-02 ) The Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation Division of Air Pollution Control has recently created a new webpage that outlines the process for governmental agencies to follow when proposing a governmental collective site for the open burning of natural disaster debris. |
| Guidelines for Taking Minutes at Meetings of the Board of Mayor and Aldermen General (Created: 2011-05-13; Reviewed: 2021-07-20 ) MTAS was asked about who should take meeting minutes and how minutes may be amended. |
| Guidelines Governing Municipal Truck Regulations Legal Opinion (Created: 1998-01-21; Reviewed: 2020-10-07 ) MTAS was asked whether the city can amend its truck weight ordinance to prohibit through truck traffic from using Road A to Road B inside the city, and exempt from the ordinance trucks leaving the landfill, delivery and pick-ups at a certain business. |
| Hamilton County Government Group Health Plan Request for Proposal RFP (Created: 2007-06-26; Reviewed: 2021-06-21 ) An RFP for proposals for HMO, POS and PPO products, both fully-insured and self-funded; includes certificate of compliance. |
| Handicapped Access, In-Lieu-Of Tax Payments, Liquor by the Drink Legal Opinion (Created: 2001-02-21; Reviewed: 2021-07-16 ) MTAS was asked whether the city is required to provide handicap access to the second floor walking track in its new recreation building, if the Electric Company can change its monthly in-lieu of tax payments to a single annual payment, and whether the City can put 'liquor by the drink' back on the ballot during the next election since the measure was approved in the last election. |
| Handicapped Parking at City Parking Meters Legal Opinion (Created: 2007-12-07; Reviewed: 2020-05-01 ) MTAS was asked whether TCA permits disabled and handicapped persons who display the appropriate license plate and/or placard to park in handicapped parking spaces beyond the time limits prescribed by a city ordinance for the parking space. |
| Handling Employee (fire, EMT, paramedic, police officer) Exposure to COVID-19 General (Created: 2020-03-22; Reviewed: 2021-05-21 ) MTAS advice on what to do if an employee (firefighter, EMT, paramedic, police officer, etc.) has close contact to a COVID-19 positive patient, to a patient that is suspected of having COVID-19, or to a patient exhibiting respiratory distress symptom. |
| Harrogate Liquor by the Drink and Privilege Tax Ordinance Ordinance (Created: 2018-07-16; Reviewed: 2021-07-16 ) An ordinance of the City of Harrogate, Tennessee repealing the prohibition of liquor by the drink sales and adopting a privilege tax on the sale of alcoholic beverages. |
| Hatch Act: Guidance From Federal Government General (Created: 2017-07-20; Reviewed: 2017-08-18 ) Hatch Act Modernization Guide for State and Local Employees |
| Hazardous Materials Incident Reimbursement Ordinance Ordinance (Created: 2011-05-10; Reviewed: 2021-04-15 ) A sample ordinance for the reimbursement of costs associated with a hazardous materials incident. |
| Health Benefits Consultant RFPs RFP (Created: 2016-06-28; Reviewed: 2021-07-29 ) MTAS was asked to provide examples of requests for proposals (RFPs) for a health benefits consultant. |
| Health Care Reform and W-2 Reporting Guidance General (Created: 2012-10-08; Reviewed: 2021-07-09 ) MTAS was asked for information about Form W-2 for Health Care Reform reporting. |
| Health Insurance Benefits to Family Following a Line of Duty Death Survey (Created: 2016-10-18; Reviewed: 2021-07-09 ) Thirty-five cities responded to an MTAS survey asking whether the city provides health insurance benefits to qualifying survivors in the event of a line of duty death. |
| Health Insurance Provision in Cities with Less Than 10 Employees Survey (Created: 2020-12-10; Reviewed: 2021-05-04 ) Twelve cities responded to a request for information regarding whether or not they provide insurance benefits when there are less than 10 employees on the payroll. |
| Health Insurance Waiting Periods in Selected Tennessee Cities Survey (Created: 2018-05-15; Reviewed: 2021-07-09 ) A survey of selected Tennessee cities regarding waiting periods for health insurance for municipal employees. |
| Heavy Equipment Operator (2) Job Description (Created: 2002-09-27; Reviewed: 2021-05-26 ) Job description for the position of Heavy Equipment Operator. |
| Heavy Truck Traffic Regulation General (Created: 2002-07-15; Reviewed: 2020-05-01 ) MTAS was asked for information on heavy truck traffic regulation. |
| Helicopter Regulation Examples Legal Opinion (Created: 2000-09-14; Reviewed: 2021-06-18 ) MTAS was asked to provide examples of helicopter regulation. |
| HIPAA Training Acknowledgment Form Form (Created: 2003-08-27; Reviewed: 2021-05-07 ) A form to acknowledge the receipt of a copy of the Town's HIPAA policy and training on that policy. |
| Hiring a City Administrator General (Created: 2003-05-13; Reviewed: 2021-04-26 ) MTAS was asked the advantages of hiring a city administrator. |
| Hiring a City Manager Form (Created: 2009-02-01; Reviewed: 2021-04-26 ) MTAS was asked for assistance in hiring a replacement city manager. Includes an evaluation system for council members to review the cover letters and resumes. |
| Hiring a City Manager When There is No Provision for Such a Position in the Charter Legal Opinion (Created: 2003-08-19; Reviewed: 2021-05-12 ) MTAS was asked whether a city can hire a city manager when there is no provision in the charter for such an officer or employee. |
| Hiring Full Time Police Officer As Part Time Recreation Director General (Created: 2003-05-08; Reviewed: 2021-07-06 ) An employee works 43 hours a week as a police officer and wants to be hired for an additional 20 hours a week as the recreation director. |
| Hiring Minors Age 16 and 17 General (Created: 2012-07-09; Reviewed: 2021-04-28 ) MTAS was asked about a city's responsibilities when hiring minors age 16 or 17 for a fulltime seasonal position. |
| Hiring New Firefighters and Promoting Firefighters General (Created: 2007-04-08; Reviewed: 2021-06-20 ) Includes information on volunteer firefighters. |
| Hiring Questions about Applicant Pool and an Applicant with Known Disabilities General (Created: 2012-08-13; Reviewed: 2021-07-09 ) MTAS was asked for advice when there is a very small applicant pool and one applicant has a known disability that might affect his or her ability to perform the job. |
| Historic Business Licenses Are Public Records Legal Opinion (Created: 2012-01-11; Reviewed: 2021-06-18 ) MTAS was asked whether business licenses are public record if they are more than seventy years old. |
| Holding a Referendum for the City to Create a Municipal School District Legal Opinion (Created: 2011-08-18; Reviewed: 2021-05-10 ) MTAS was asked several questions regarding a referendum to create a municipal school district. |
| Holding Dual Offices General (Created: 2014-01-23; Reviewed: 2021-07-16 ) MTAS was asked if there is a prohibition either in the city's charter or in state law that prevents a member of the Board of Mayor and Aldermen from also serving as either a county commissioner or a register of deeds. |
| Holiday Compensation for Public Safety Employees Survey Survey (Created: 2014-02-20; Reviewed: 2021-05-20 ) Eleven cities were asked how they compensate full-time and part-time firefighters for holidays and how these policies compare to police patrol employees. |
| Holston Business Development Center: A Report to the City of Kingsport, Tennessee Report/Study (Created: 2015-09-30; Reviewed: 2021-06-18 ) MTAS was engaged to conduct a review of the Holston Business Development Center (HBDC) for the purpose of identifying future directions due to the pending retirement of the executive director. |
| Hotel/Motel Tax Usage in Tennessee Cities Survey (Created: 2021-10-25; Reviewed: 2022-03-02 ) MTAS Tennessee cities and towns to find out whether or not a hotel/motel tax is collected, what the rate is in the city or town, are there any additional fees and how the funds are spent in their city. |
| Hours for Beer Sales When Private Club Also Holds Liquor License Legal Opinion (Created: 2009-01-09; Reviewed: 2021-07-16 ) MTAS was asked whether or not the hours for liquor sales set by the ABC apply to the hours for beer sales when the City has not approved liquor sales. |
| Hours of Service Under FMLA Legal Opinion (Created: 2002-12-31; Reviewed: 2021-07-09 ) MTAS was asked several questions about the application of the federal Family and Medical Leave Act. |
| How to Incorporate a New City in Tennessee General (Created: 2000-07-01; Reviewed: 2021-04-29 ) Procedures and forms required for incorporating a new city in Tennessee. |
| IMLA Model Ordinance Regulating Dangerous Dogs Ordinance (Created: 2022-01-21; Reviewed: 2022-01-21 ) This is a model ordinance regulating dangerous dogs prepared by the International Municipal Lawyers Association (IMLA) and is shared by MTAS with the permission of IMLA. MTAS recommends this ordinance for addressing problems caused by vicious or dangerous dogs. (Ordinance publication date: October 2018) |
| Implementing GASB 34 General (Created: 2004-07-08; Reviewed: 2021-04-23 ) MTAS was asked for help in estimating the life expectancy of buildings and equipment. |
| Implied Dedication of an Alley Legal Opinion (Created: 1994-01-27; Reviewed: 2020-10-07 ) MTAS was asked whether a certain alley is a city street. |
| Imposing New Regulations on the Sale of Beer on Existing Businesses Legal Opinion (Created: 1995-08-01; Reviewed: 2021-07-16 ) MTAS was asked whether the city could impose new regulations on the sale of beer on existing businesses, specifically, prohibiting the sale of beer at drive-in windows. |
| Imposing Property Maintenance Regulations Through a Zoning Ordinance Legal Opinion (Created: 2004-04-13; Reviewed: 2021-04-28 ) MTAS was asked whether a municipality can impose property maintenance regulations through its zoning ordinance. |
| In Lieu of Tax Payment Calculator General (Created: 2006-03-14; Reviewed: 2021-07-29 ) MTAS has developed a worksheet to assist local governments in calculating in lieu of tax payments. |
| Incentive Pay for City Employees Who Attain Certification Survey (Created: 2017-06-01; Reviewed: 2021-05-12 ) Cities were asked if incentive pay was given to employees who attained certification in a job-related or other field, or for earning an associate or Bachelor's degree. |
| Incentive/Disincentive Contracts General (Created: 2006-06-12; Reviewed: 2020-10-07 ) MTAS was asked whether other cities use incentive contracts. |
| Incentives for ASE and EVT Certifications for Fleet Technicians Survey (Created: 2018-12-04; Reviewed: 2020-05-14 ) Selected Tennessee cities were surveyed to find out if they offer incentives to their fleet technicians for getting an ASE or CVT certificates. |
| Incentives for Certifications for Selected Municipalities in East Tennessee Survey (Created: 2022-10-14; Reviewed: 2022-12-09 ) The MTAS Research and Information Center asked East Tennessee municipalities what incentives they give their employees for certifications in selected fields. |
| Incident Initiated Public Fire Safety Education Encounter Form (Created: 2018-07-01; Reviewed: 2021-05-21 ) Often on an incident firefighters are asked to provide, or voluntarily provide, fire safety information to the occupants. Such encounters allow fire department members to educate the public on fire safety. ISO considers such activities as public fire safety education and the community can receive credit towards community risk reduction credit for the ISO evaluation. To receive the credit, the effort must be documented. This form should be used to document any fire safety education interaction with the public as a result of the fire department's response to a home or business. |
| Inclement Weather Notification in Select Tennessee Cities Survey (Created: 2018-09-11; Reviewed: 2021-07-22 ) Thirteen cities in Tennessee were surveyed to find out if their municipality closes during inclement weather and if so, how do they communicate that to non-emergency employees who do not have to report to work. |
| Incompetency as a Ground for Dismissal Without the Support of a Job Description Legal Opinion (Created: 1994-10-19; Reviewed: 2021-07-29 ) MTAS was asked whether incompetency will stand as a ground for dismissal without the support of a job description. |
| Incorporation Process General (Created: 2016-02-01; Reviewed: 2021-04-19 ) MTAS provided some information on the incorporation process in Tennessee. |
| Increasing the Salary of the City Judge Legal Opinion (Created: 1998-05-06; Reviewed: 2021-07-27 ) MTAS was asked several questions about increasing the salary of the city judge. |
| Indemnification of City Officers, Employees, and Board Members General (Created: 2014-03-26; Reviewed: 2021-04-15 ) MTAS was asked about the importance of adopting language to indemnify city officers, employees, and board members while properly acting in the scope of their official duties. |
| Informal Assemblage Violates Tennessee Open Meetings Law Legal Opinion (Created: 2002-04-10; Reviewed: 2021-06-21 ) MTAS was asked whether meetings between the Mayor and a member of Council to discuss the preparation of the City's budget would violate the Sunshine Law or Open Meetings Law. |
| Information Coordinator Job Description (Created: 2002-09-24; Reviewed: 2021-07-09 ) Job description for the position of Information Coordinator. |
| Information Technology Job Descriptions Job Description (Created: 2017-02-28; Reviewed: 2021-07-08 ) Several IT job descriptions from the City of Chattanooga, including: Assistant Director IT Operations, Assistant Director IT Security, IT Computer Technician, IT Specialist, IT Support Services Supervisor, and Manager IT Operations. |
| Infrastructure Assets Reporting General (Created: 2003-03-06; Reviewed: 2021-04-23 ) MTAS was asked whether the modified approach for reporting infrastructure assets could be used in the Water & Sewer Fund or other enterprise fund operations. |
| Infrastructure Investment Gap Facing Drinking Water and Wastewater Systems (Created: 2000-10-24; Reviewed: 2021-04-23 ) The gap between infrastructure spending and infrastructure needs is an enormous problem and it is growing. |
| Inoperable Bus as Violation of Town Ordinance Legal Opinion (Created: 2002-10-24; Reviewed: 2021-07-09 ) MTAS was asked whether an inoperable bus that is maintained by a business owner on the lot on which the business is located would be considered a 'building' since it is used for storage. |
| Insurance for Elected Officials Survey (Created: 2020-06-17; Reviewed: 2021-07-09 ) Ten Tennessee cities responded to a request for information regarding whether or not the city provides medical insurance to their elected officials. |
| Interest Earned on Utility Deposit Legal Opinion (Created: 2006-01-17; Reviewed: 2021-04-23 ) MTAS was asked whether the interest earned on the utility deposit charged by the city for certain utility services belongs to the utility or to the customer. |
| Interlocal Agreement Between the Town of Walden, Tennessee, Hamilton County, Tennessee and the Hamilton County, Tennessee Sheriff's Office for the Provision of Law Enforcement Services Resolution (Created: 2014-12-04; Reviewed: 2021-07-20 ) A resolution to create an interlocal agreement between the Town of Walden, Tennessee, Hamilton County, Tennessee and the Hamilton County, Tennessee Sheriff's Office for the provision of law enforcement services. |
| Interlocal Agreement by and between the Town of Centerville, Tennessee and the E911 Emergency Communications District of Hickman County, Tennessee General (Created: 2010-05-18; Reviewed: 2021-07-22 ) An agreement for emergency communications services between Centerville and the E911 Emergency Communications District of Hickman County. |
| Interlocal Agreement for Planning Assistance General (Created: 2012-06-19; Reviewed: 2021-07-26 ) Examples of interlocal agreements for planning services. |
| Internal Control Tool Kit for Municipal Governments Report/Study (Created: 2019-02-16; Reviewed: 2022-01-25 ) This toolkit is intended to assist cities in getting started on or reassessing their existing internal control system. |
| Internet Forum for Williamson County, Tennessee, Terms of Use Agreement and Resolution General (Created: 2011-06-01; Reviewed: 2021-07-20 ) An example of a Terms of Use Agreement and a Resolution as submitted by Williamson County for a public Internet forum for use by its County Commissioners. |
| Internet Service Provider Contract Legal Opinion (Created: 2002-01-04; Reviewed: 2021-05-07 ) Must a city take bids for an internet serivce provider, or does an ISP qualify as a professional service or single source? |
| Interns in the Workplace Survey Survey (Created: 2005-01-03; Reviewed: 2021-04-28 ) Nineteen cities and counties were asked several questions about their use and pay of interns in city departments. |
| Introduction and Formalization of Council Work Sessions General (Created: 2014-02-07; Reviewed: 2021-07-20 ) Council work sessions should be used to provide an opportunity to review complex or involved projects or issues, or to introduce topics requiring special attention and discussion by the board before the matter is placed on a future agenda for formal action. |
| Invitation to Bid: Mowing Services RFP (Created: 2009-10-05; Reviewed: 2021-06-21 ) An invitation to bid mowing services for the City of Johnson City. |
| Iran Divestment Act Affects Purchasing In Tennessee Cities and Towns General (Created: 2016-07-29; Reviewed: 2021-07-29 ) This article reports that persons or entities determined to be engaged in investment activities with Iran are listed on the state's website and are prohibited from contracting with any political subdivision of this state and any contract entered into shall be void. |
| Is a 'No U-Turn' Sign a Prerequisite to a 'No U-Turn' Prohibition or Ordinance? Legal Opinion (Created: 2010-11-03; Reviewed: 2020-10-07 ) MTAS was asked whether a 'No U-Turn' sign is a prerequisite to a 'No U-Turn' prohibition or ordinance. |
| Is a Certain Contract City Administrator an Employee or an Independent Contractor? Legal Opinion (Created: 2006-03-22; Reviewed: 2021-06-09 ) MTAS was asked whether the board of mayor and aldermen's delegation of certain administrative functions to the 'Administrative Consultant'Town Operations Supervisor' is legal and if the person holding the position is an employee or an independent contractor. |
| Is a Meeting of a Committee Appointed by the Mayor Subject to the Requirements of the Tennessee Open Meeting Act? Legal Opinion (Created: 1999-03-31; Reviewed: 2021-07-19 ) MTAS was asked whether a meeting of a committee appointed by the Mayor is subject to the requirements of the Tennessee Open Meeting Act. |
| Is an Individual Working in the Library an Employee of the City? General (Created: 2006-08-09; Reviewed: 2021-07-20 ) MTAS was asked whether an individual is an employee of the city or an independent contractor. |
| Is DUI Grounds for Removing an Alderman? General (Created: 2004-08-19; Reviewed: 2021-07-20 ) MTAS was asked whether the City has the legal authority to remove an alderman who has been arrested for DUI. |
| Is Taking the Oath of Office Mandatory? Legal Opinion (Created: 2006-06-26; Reviewed: 2021-06-09 ) Analyzed the question of whether the oath of office is mandatory and the legal effect the failure of a public officer to take the oath has on his votes and decisions. |
| Is There Empirical Evidence That Surveillance Cameras Reduce Crime? Report/Study (Created: 2016-09-26; Reviewed: 2021-05-12 ) Based on the papers, articles, and reports reviewed, it seems that CCTV is most effective when combined with other crime reducing/deterring methods such as improved lighting, security guards, and defensible space. |
| Issuance of a Beer Permit When One of the Partners Has -- a Felony Conviction for Burglary Legal Opinion (Created: 1993-06-18; Reviewed: 2021-07-21 ) MTAS was asked about the issuance of a beer permit where a partnership has applied for a beer permit and one of the partners has a felony conviction for burglary. |
| Issuance of Beer Permits Under Beer Ordinance Legal Opinion (Created: 1994-04-13; Reviewed: 2021-07-21 ) MTAS was asked if the beer board was correct in denying a beer permit for two brothers, after the board learned that a third brother, who has been convicted of a crime of moral turpitude, was also going to be a partner in the business. |
| IT Staffing in Selected Tennessee Cities Survey (Created: 2019-08-05; Reviewed: 2021-07-08 ) A survey of selected cities and towns in Tennessee regarding whether they have an IT manager on staff, other IT staff positions, and if they contract for any of their IT staff. If respondents have contracted IT staff, they were asked further questions about the contract procurement process. Information on the vendors and one sample RFP are provided. |
| James "Dustin" Samples Act, Public Chapter 465, Report with Recommendations for Tennessee Municipalities Report/Study (Created: 2023-08-31; Reviewed: 2023-08-31 ) In collaboration with the Tennessee Fire Service Coalition and the Tennessee Professional Firefighters Association, the 113th Tennessee General Assembly passed HB0976/SB0856 on April 21, 2023. Governor Bill Lee signed the legislation on May 17, 2023. Known as the “James ‘Dustin’ Samples Act” (Act), this legislation became effective on May 17, 2023, for purposes and promulgating rules and will become effective on January 1, 2024, for all other purposes. The Act establishes a rebuttable presumption that eligible firefighters that have been diagnosed with PTSD by a mental health provider because of responding to one or more incidents with at least one of the factors listed in the Act are presumed to have incurred PTSD in the line-of-duty, and such PTSD is compensable under the Workers’ Compensation Law compiled in Title 50, Chapter 6 of the Tennessee Code. The presumption is rebuttable if it is shown by a preponderance of the evidence that the cause of PTSD was non-service-connected risk factors or non-service-connected exposure. The Act was named for Captain James “Dustin” Samples, who worked with the Cleveland, Tennessee Fire Department. Captain Samples suffered from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). |
| Janitor Job Description (Created: 2002-09-27; Reviewed: 2021-05-04 ) Job description for the position of Janitor. |
| Job Analysis Questionnaire Job Description (Created: 2001-08-24; Reviewed: 2021-05-04 ) Questionnaire used to define jobs, based on equipment used, essential functions, activities performed, supervisory responsibilities, qualifications, and knowledge required. |
| Job Description and Interview Questions for Street Foreman Job Description (Created: 2021-07-12; Reviewed: 2022-02-21 ) The Town of Signal Mountain, Tennessee provided MTAS with a job description and the list of interview questions used when hiring a Street Foreman. |
| Johnson City Animal Shelter Director Comparisons Survey (Created: 2015-10-15; Reviewed: 2021-03-29 ) MTAS collected salary, jurisdiction, and departmental information for the position of animal shelter director from seven Tennessee cities. |
| Johnson City: Structure of Leisure Services Review 2005 Report/Study (Created: 2005-04-11; Reviewed: 2021-06-21 ) The purpose of the study was to identify possible areas of improvement in the structural arrangement of leisure services. |
| Judge Interim Appointment General (Created: 2014-11-24; Reviewed: 2021-07-27 ) MTAS was asked about an upcoming leave of absence of the town judge on a planned one-year sabbatical. |
| Judge Salary and Benefits Survey Survey (Created: 2021-04-29; Reviewed: 2021-07-27 ) Twelve Tennessee cities responded to a request for information regarding what salary and benefits are offered to their sitting judges. |
| Judge's Oath of Office Form (Created: 2014-08-27; Reviewed: 2021-07-27 ) MTAS provided information about Tennessee law on the taking and administration of the oath of office by newly elected judges. |
| Judges' and Mayors' Authority to Perform Marriages Legal Opinion (Created: 1999-12-02; Reviewed: 2021-07-27 ) MTAS was asked who has the authority to solemnize/perform marriages. |
| Jurisdiction of Juvenile Court Judge and Skateboarding as a Traffic Violation Legal Opinion (Created: 2006-03-10; Reviewed: 2021-07-27 ) MTAS was asked what options the juvenile court judge has relative to disposing juvenile traffic cases and whether skateboarding in public ways other than highways and streets is a traffic violation. |
| Jury Trials Legal Opinion (Created: 2003-11-26; Reviewed: 2021-07-28 ) MTAS was asked whether jury trials may be held by the Muncipal Court. |
| Keeping Honey Bees in a Residential Area Legal Opinion (Created: 2012-05-31; Reviewed: 2021-07-08 ) MTAS was asked about regulating the keeping of honey bees inside the corporate limits of the town. |
| Keeping the Proceeds of Utility Overbillings Legal Opinion (Created: 1997-12-18; Reviewed: 2021-04-23 ) MTAS was asked whether the city can refund $20,000 in sewer and water capacity fees paid by a certain developer, who decided not to develop the property for which he paid the fees. |
| Kingsport City Manager Search Interview Training General (Created: 2014-04-10; Reviewed: 2021-06-09 ) MTAS was asked to provide guideline a city manager interview process. |
| Kingsport Code Enforcement Review Report/Study (Created: 2010-01-04; Reviewed: 2021-04-29 ) MTAS was asked to conduct an examination of Kingsport's code enforcement system. Environmental court programs were also reviewed. |
| Kingsport, Tennessee, Fire Protection Management Study Report/Study (Created: 2011-06-30; Reviewed: 2021-07-22 ) This fire study was conducted at the request of the City of Kingsport. |
| Kingston Green Technology Committee Goals and Objectives General (Created: 2009-11-09; Reviewed: 2021-04-12 ) MTAS was asked to facilitate a meeting of the Kingston Green Technology Committee. |
| Kitchen Manager Working Chef Job Description (Created: 2002-09-25; Reviewed: 2021-06-21 ) Job description for the position of Kitchen Manager/Working Chef. |
| Labor Relations Manager/EEO Officer Job Description (Created: 2005-09-20; Reviewed: 2021-05-12 ) Job description for the position of Labor Relations Manager/EEO Officer. |
| Laboratory Technician Job Description (Created: 2003-07-10; Reviewed: 2021-05-04 ) Job description for the position of Laboratory Technician at a wastewater plant. |
| Laborer Job Description (Created: 2002-09-27; Reviewed: 2021-05-04 ) Job description for the position of Laborer. |
| Lakeland, Tennessee, Fire Station Location Study Report/Study (Created: 2011-09-30; Reviewed: 2021-07-22 ) The study's purpose is to answer two questions: 1) Where should Lakeland place its next fire station? and 2) How many fire stations might Lakeland need in the long term? |
| Land Swap between the City and Owner of Private Property Legal Opinion (Created: 2008-12-15; Reviewed: 2021-07-19 ) MTAS was asked whether the city can enter into a land swap agreement with private parties, and what rules govern such transactions. |
| Landfill Operator Job Description (Created: 2002-09-27; Reviewed: 2021-05-27 ) Job description for the position of Landfill Operator. |
| Landfill/Container Credit Application and Service Agreement Form (Created: 2022-04-01; Reviewed: 2022-04-01 ) The Town of Greeneville, Tennessee provided MTAS with a copy of their solid waste collection application and service agreement. |
| Landowner's Liability under Tennessee's Natural Flow Rule Legal Opinion (Created: 2009-09-24; Reviewed: 2021-05-07 ) MTAS was asked whether under Tennessee's natural flow rule, a landowner is liable for flooding caused by vegetative growth in a watercourse that crosses his land. |
| Landscape Architect Job Description (Created: 1970-04-15; Reviewed: 2021-06-21 ) Job descriptions for Landscape Architect, Associate Landscape Architect, Senior Landscape Architect, Supervising Landscape Architect. |
| Landscape Architect/Project Coordinator Job Description (Created: 2000-02-01; Reviewed: 2021-06-21 ) Job description for the position of Landscape Architect / Project Coordinator. |
| Landscape Ordinance Manual Ordinance (Created: 2005-07-01; Reviewed: 2021-04-28 ) The purpose and intent of this manual are the following: to promote the scenic quality of the community; to improve the appearance of parking areas and property abutting public rights of way; to protect property values; to reduce stormwater runoff and improve water quality; to provide transition between incompatible land uses; and to provide relief from traffic, noise, heat, glare, dust, and debris. |
| Landscape Planner / Horticulturist Job Description (Created: 2010-06-24; Reviewed: 2021-06-21 ) Job description for the position of Landscape Planner / Horticulturist. |
| Landscape Technician Job Description (Created: 2000-10-01; Reviewed: 2021-06-21 ) Job description for the position of Landscape Technician. |
| Lateral Transfer Survey Results Survey (Created: 2007-05-25; Reviewed: 2021-05-04 ) Thirteen jurisdictions responded to a survey asking whether they have a policy for lateral transfers. |
| Law Enforcement Off-Duty Employment, or Moonlighting Legal Opinion (Created: 2011-10-26; Reviewed: 2021-05-12 ) MTAS was asked whether FLSA applies regarding overtime, what the city's liability is regarding worker's comp, and about general city liability. Includes opinions from TML, DOL, and TAG. |
| Laws Applying to Municipal-Sponsored Festivals and Fairs Legal Opinion (Created: 2008-04-18; Reviewed: 2021-07-20 ) MTAS was asked about prohibiting fund-raising activities at the festival, prohibiting the sale of merchandise that does not qualify as arts and crafts, and restricting the kinds of merchandise that property owners abutting the festival sites can sell that compete with the arts and crafts sold at the festival. |
| Laying a Motion on the Table While a Vote Is Being Taken Legal Opinion (Created: 2008-07-25; Reviewed: 2021-06-09 ) MTAS was asked several questions pertaining to the effect of the motion adopted by the board of mayor and aldermen to lay a measure on the table. |
| Learning Management System Usage in Selected Tennessee Cities Survey (Created: 2021-11-09; Reviewed: 2022-03-02 ) Ten Tennessee cities responded to a request for information regarding the usage of a learning management system in their municipalities, the costs for their systems and whether or not someone is dedicated to the administration of the resource. |
| Learning Projects of Municipal Elected Officials: an Executive Summary Report/Study (Created: 2017-03-02; Reviewed: 2021-07-20 ) The researcher, supported by the Municipal Technical Advisory Service, interviewed 41 municipal elected officials in East Tennessee to determine what they learned about during CY2015 in order to fulfill their role as a mayor, vice-mayor, or city councilmember/alderman. |
| Lease Agreement for a City-Owned Building General (Created: 2014-04-16; Reviewed: 2021-07-28 ) MTAS was asked for a sample lease agreement for a city-owned building that is currently being operated as a senior center. |
| Lease versus Purchase of Public Facilities: Pros and Cons General (Created: 2010-10-15; Reviewed: 2020-10-07 ) This article lists the advantages and disadvantages of leasing a public facility. |
| Leasing a Garbage Truck General (Created: 2015-01-21; Reviewed: 2021-05-27 ) MTAS was asked whether the city can lease a garbage truck without permission from the Comptroller's office |
| Leasing City-Owned Facilities for Communications Equipment Survey (Created: 2019-04-01; Reviewed: 2021-05-07 ) Twenty-one Tennessee officials were surveyed to find whether or not the cities lease space to companies to place communications equipment on public facilities such as water towers or a city owned communication tower. |
| Leasing of Municipal Cemeteries Legal Opinion (Created: 2006-08-17; Reviewed: 2021-07-27 ) MTAS was asked to analyze the question of whether a city could lease a cemetery to a private business. |
| Leave Accrual for Exempt and Non-Exempt Employees: an MTAS Survey Survey (Created: 2009-07-07; Reviewed: 2021-07-09 ) Forty-two cities were asked several questions about annual and sick leave for their exempt and non-exempt employees. |
| Leave Benefits Survey Survey (Created: 2016-08-11; Reviewed: 2023-08-17 ) Twenty-seven cities were asked questions about pay in lieu of vacation policies, vacation accrual policies, and cash payment of unused sick leave at retirement, |
| Leave Equivalency Schedules for Employees Working Different Schedules General (Created: 2014-10-20; Reviewed: 2021-07-09 ) MTAS provided equivalency schedules for employees with different work schedules and total annual hours. |
| Leave for Training Due to Voluntary Military Promotions General (Created: 2012-07-24; Reviewed: 2021-05-04 ) MTAS was asked whether USERRA protects the rights of any American who wishes to serve in the armed forces regardless of voluntary promotions, which may equal more time away from work. |
| Leave Request Form Form (Created: 2003-03-10; Reviewed: 2021-07-09 ) The Town of Spencer requested a form for leave requests. |
| Lebanon Mayoral Powers Under City Charter General (Created: 2001-11-26; Reviewed: 2021-06-11 ) The City of Lebanon requested an ordinance requiring the Mayor's appointments to require Council approval for dismissal. |
| Legal Effect of Warning Signs Legal Opinion (Created: 2009-05-13; Reviewed: 2020-10-07 ) MTAS was asked about the legal effect of "Slow Children Playing" and similar warning signs. |
| Legal Effect on the City for an Illegally Issued Building or Zoning Permit Legal Opinion (Created: 2002-09-09; Reviewed: 2021-05-07 ) MTAS was asked whether the city is liable for the cost of moving a mobile home illegally placed in an R-2 zone, but placed there pursuant to a building permit erroneously issued by the building inspector to the owner of the mobile home. |
| Legal Fees and Court Costs of a City Employee Legal Opinion (Created: 2003-03-21; Reviewed: 2021-05-24 ) MTAS was asked whether the city can pay the legal fees and court costs of an employee who was placed on pretrial diversion for misuse of city funds. |
| Legal Requirement for an Architect to Design Public Buildings Legal Opinion (Created: 1994-07-26; Reviewed: 2021-05-27 ) MTAS was asked whether it is necessary for a licensed architect or engineer to draft the plans for a new fire hall. |
| Legality of a Business Owner to Put Iron Rods on the Edge of a Highway Legal Opinion (Created: 2011-07-18; Reviewed: 2020-10-07 ) MTAS was asked whether it is legal for the owner of a certain business to have put several iron rods into the pavement on the edge of a highway, which, presumably, the owner of the business thinks is the eastern limit of that highway, when the right of way is undoubtedly wider than the pavement. |
| Legality of a Christian Cross Located on Top of a Town Water Tower Legal Opinion (Created: 2011-11-11; Reviewed: 2021-06-25 ) MTAS was asked whether an arrangement, where a local bank leased with the Town for water tower space and placed a Christian cross on top of the tower, is a violation of the Establishment Clause of the U.S. Constitution. |
| Legality of a Contract Legal Opinion (Created: 2011-04-27; Reviewed: 2021-07-29 ) MTAS was asked whether there is an enforceable contract between the city and a certain company under facts related in an opinion to city. |
| Legality of a Garbage Contract by City with One Company Legal Opinion (Created: 1995-12-14; Reviewed: 2021-06-25 ) MTAS was asked about the legality of a garbage contract by city with one company. |
| Legality of a Separation Allowance Made to a Police Officer Legal Opinion (Created: 1990-12-07; Reviewed: 2021-05-04 ) MTAS was asked whether it is legal for the board of mayor and aldermen to approve the payment of a "separation allowance" to a police officer. |
| Legality of City Contracting with Utility District Water System to Collect City's Sewer Charges Legal Opinion (Created: 1990-12-20; Reviewed: 2021-07-29 ) MTAS was asked whether the city and the utility district can contract for the utility district to cut off the water of the city's delinquent sewer customers without the contract also providing for the utility district to handle the city's sewer service billing. |
| Legality of City in Accepting a Certain Street Legal Opinion (Created: 1994-03-23; Reviewed: 2020-10-07 ) MTAS was asked whether the city acted legally in accepting a certain street. |
| Legality of City-County Sales Tax Allocation Agreement Legal Opinion (Created: 1992-04-13; Reviewed: 2021-07-29 ) MTAS was asked to determine whether there is any way for the city to get out of the contract under which the city waived its share of the sales tax to the county for a term ending upon the payment of a 2.4 million bond issue. |
| Legality of Creating Minority Set-Asides Between Developer and City Legal Opinion (Created: 2002-03-05; Reviewed: 2021-07-29 ) MTAS was asked whether an agreement between a city and a developer of a large construction project may specify a percentage of subcontracts on the project to be awarded, or set aside, for minority contractors. |
| Legality of Fire Department Fees Legal Opinion (Created: 2004-03-22; Reviewed: 2021-07-22 ) MTAS was asked to research the legality of inspection fees and certain services. |
| Legality of Open-Ended Sales Tax Sharing Agreement with -- County Legal Opinion (Created: 1995-06-16; Reviewed: 2021-07-29 ) MTAS was asked the term of the contract between the City and County for the distribution of the city's share of the sales tax. |
| Legality of Ordinance Changing Staggered Four-Year Term of Office to Non-Staggered Two-Year Term of Office Legal Opinion (Created: 2020-10-15; Reviewed: 2021-07-20 ) MTAS was asked to give an opinion on the legality of an ordinance which changed the board of mayor and alderman from a staggered four-year term of office to a non-staggered two-year term of office. |
| Legality of the County Charging a Tipping Fee Legal Opinion (Created: 1994-09-20; Reviewed: 2021-05-28 ) MTAS was asked whether it is illegal "double taxation" for the county to charge a tipping fee. |
| Legality of Using a Facsimile Signature on a Check General (Created: 2011-11-16; Reviewed: 2021-07-29 ) MTAS was asked about the legality of using a facsimile signature during the absence of one of the authorized signatures on a check. |
| Legality of Utility Service Contract Between State and City Legal Opinion (Created: 1997-04-28; Reviewed: 2021-04-23 ) MTAS was asked whether the contract between the Tennessee Department of Corrections and the City under which the latter provides the former's prison with water, sewer, and gas services is invalid because the state turned over the operation of the prison to a private company. |
| Legality of Wrecker Ordinance Legal Opinion (Created: 2003-08-25; Reviewed: 2020-05-04 ) MTAS was asked to research the legality of a wrecker ordinance. |
| Legislation Creating MTAS General (Created: 1949-04-15; Reviewed: 2016-07-06 ) The Municipal Technical Advisory Service (MTAS) was created in 1949 by Public Act of the General Assembly. |
| Length of Term of Members of the Utility Board Who Are Also Members of the City Council Legal Opinion (Created: 2007-03-15; Reviewed: 2021-04-23 ) MTAS was asked whether the city council can replace a member of the utility board who was a member of the city council but was not re-elected to office. |
| Lenoir City RFP for Pest Control Services RFP (Created: 2021-07-12; Reviewed: 2021-09-17 ) Lenoir City produced this RFP in order to obtain bids for insect and rodent control services for their municipal facilities. |
| Letter of Employment Form (Created: 2012-10-01; Reviewed: 2021-05-04 ) MTAS was asked to develop a letter of employment to give to employees when they are employed. The letter would give the employee basic information about salary, benefits, probationary status and other matters that need to be clear to the employee upon accepting employment with the city. |
| Levying an Amusement Tax Legal Opinion (Created: 1994-05-04; Reviewed: 2021-04-21 ) MTAS was asked whether the Town can levy an amusement tax. |
| Levying Personal Property Taxes on Privately-Owned Property at the Airport Legal Opinion (Created: 1995-09-20; Reviewed: 2021-07-02 ) MTAS was asked whether a city may assess personal property taxes against property at an airport outside city limits. |
| Levying Taxes to Fund the Operation of City Schools and the Methods of School Consolidation Legal Opinion (Created: 1991-05-24; Reviewed: 2021-07-20 ) MTAS was asked whether the City Council can give the school board the authority to levy taxes to fund the operation of city schools and what the methods of school consolidation are in Tennessee. |
| Liability for Codes Inspections Legal Opinion (Created: 1996-08-23; Reviewed: 2021-06-18 ) MTAS received questions regarding the adoption of plumbing codes in a city. |
| Liability for Private Sprinkler Systems Legal Opinion (Created: 2003-01-07; Reviewed: 2021-05-20 ) MTAS was asked about potential liability that could be imposed on the Town for certain deficiencies in private sprinkler systems that the Town is thinking of mandating by ordinance. |
| Liability for Sewer Back-Ups Legal Opinion (Created: 2011-03-25; Reviewed: 2021-04-14 ) MTAS was asked whether a municipality is liable for sewer back-ups that cause damage to private property. |
| Liability of City Council for Mispaid Salaries Legal Opinion (Created: 2004-04-12; Reviewed: 2021-05-04 ) MTAS was asked to analyze the question of the liability of the members of the city council for mispaid salaries. |
| Liability of City for Damages under the Tennessee Governmental Tort Liability Act Legal Opinion (Created: 2012-08-29; Reviewed: 2021-04-15 ) MTAS was asked what the limits of liability of a municipality under the Tennessee Governmental Tort Liability Act (TGTLA) are, where the city has insurance in excess of the limits of that Act. |
| Liability Questions Legal Opinion (Created: 2003-06-06; Reviewed: 2021-07-27 ) MTAS was asked whether the city should maintain a drainage easement on private property, whether the issuance of a building permit somehow obligates the city to the applicant relative to liability, and about the statute of limitations under the TGTLA. |
| Lien Use and Collection: A Survey Conducted for Chattanooga Survey (Created: 2007-02-28; Reviewed: 2021-07-19 ) Seven cities were asked about utilizing the lien provision of state law for recovering costs related to slum clearance and for overgrown lot clearance. |
| Liens for Demolition and Clean Up Legal Opinion (Created: 1991-07-18; Reviewed: 2021-06-21 ) A clean-up lien that followed behind the first lien would also put the former ahead of mortgagees and any other lien holder. |
| Limitations by Ordinance on the Number of Dogs/Cats per Residential Household Survey (Created: 2021-11-15; Reviewed: 2022-03-11 ) Twenty-one Tennessee cities responded to a request for information regarding their limits on the number of dogs and cats per residential household. |
| Liquor by the Drink Petition Form (Created: 2010-09-16; Reviewed: 2021-07-21 ) Liquor by the drink petitions must include the address of the election commission to which it is addressed. |
| Liquor sales on Sunday and sales of beer at retail liquor stores Legal Opinion (Created: 2018-08-08; Reviewed: 2021-07-21 ) MTAS responds to the following questions: At what time can restaurants sell liquor by the drink on Sundays; the time for a retail store to sell off-premises liquor on Sundays; and can a retail liquor store sell beer? |
| Livingston's Community Visioning Process Report/Study (Created: 2012-10-19; Reviewed: 2021-07-22 ) MTAS was asked to facilitate a community visioning process for the City of Livingston. |
| Local Approval of General Laws of Local Application Legal Opinion (Created: 2007-08-30; Reviewed: 2021-06-25 ) A letter urging compliance with the State Constitution. |
| Local Government Exemption Authorization Form (Created: 2010-09-13; Reviewed: 2021-05-28 ) A form for the city to provide notice to the Dept. of Commerce that it has adopted and is enforcing a particular code or the code outlined in an adopting ordinance or resolution. |
| Local Option Sales Tax Revenue Sharing Agreements General (Created: 2014-04-04; Reviewed: 2021-07-21 ) MTAS was asked for some examples of local option sales tax revenue sharing agreements. |
| Local Preference in Purchasing Policy General (Created: 2015-01-26; Reviewed: 2021-07-28 ) MTAS was asked whether a city may include a five percent bonus for local providers/contractors to give a slight advantage to a local provider. |
| Local Property Tax Relief Programs in Selected Cities Survey (Created: 2021-11-10; Reviewed: 2022-03-11 ) Eighteen Tennessee cities responded to a request for information regarding whether or not the municipalities offer their citizens property tax relief. |
| Locating an Interpreter General (Created: 2012-06-07; Reviewed: 2021-06-22 ) MTAS was asked how to find a Mandarin Chinese interpreter. |
| Longevity Pay Benefits in Selected Tennessee Cities Survey (Created: 2020-06-04; Reviewed: 2021-05-24 ) A survey of selected cities regarding whether they offer a longevity pay benefits and details on how that is provided. |
| Mail Inserts and ISO Credit General (Created: 2018-07-15; Reviewed: 2021-07-22 ) Dennis Wolf responded to a request for information from Murfreesboro regarding ISO credit for a residential fire safety program. |
| Maintaining Health Insurance Coverage on a City Employee's Dependents While the Employee is on FMLA Leave Legal Opinion (Created: 1995-11-01; Reviewed: 2021-07-09 ) MTAS was asked whether the city must maintain health insurance coverage on a city employee's dependents while the employee is on FMLA leave. |
| Maintaining the Appropriate Level of Unrestricted Fund Balance in the General Fund General (Created: 2014-07-02; Reviewed: 2021-07-28 ) MTAS was asked about determining the appropriate level of unrestricted fund balance to maintain in the general fund. |
| Maintenance and Operation of Street Lighting on Interstate Highways Legal Opinion (Created: 1999-02-01; Reviewed: 2021-04-23 ) MTAS was asked whether the city can pay the county for the operation of certain street lights on the interstate highway system outside the city. |
| Maintenance of a County Road General (Created: 2015-07-08; Reviewed: 2020-10-07 ) MTAS was asked about the advisability of spending city funds to improve a road outside of the city limits. |
| Maintenance Worker Job Description (Created: 2002-09-25; Reviewed: 2021-06-21 ) Job description for the position of Maintenance Worker. |
| Making a Motion Concerning an Item That Is Not on the Agenda General (Created: 2011-08-31; Reviewed: 2021-06-09 ) MTAS was asked whether a board member may make a motion concerning an item that is not on the agenda without being recognized by the chairman. |
| Making the Mayor Follow the Agenda Legal Opinion (Created: 1996-11-18; Reviewed: 2021-07-20 ) MTAS was asked how the city council can make the mayor follow the agenda and otherwise conduct meetings as prescribed by Roberts Rules of Order. |
| Management of City Parks Legal Opinion (Created: 2001-11-07; Reviewed: 2021-06-21 ) MTAS was asked what powers the city has to pass regulations governing the use of the city park if there is a contract between the city and a non-profit management organization. |
| Mandated Asset Forfeiture Form (Created: 2019-07-15; Reviewed: 2021-06-29 ) A form to be used for reporting all asset forfeiture proceeds to the Tennessee Comptroller at the end of the fiscal year. |
| Marketing & Operations Manager Job Description (Created: 2009-10-01; Reviewed: 2021-05-12 ) A job description for the position of Marketing & Operations Manager |
| Maryville Lineman Survey Survey (Created: 2020-08-07; Reviewed: 2021-04-09 ) Seven cities were identified in the MTAS City Directory as providing electric services to their communities. Two of the seven cities responded with data - Alcoa and Dayton. The following cities do not own their electric utilities and referred MTAS to the local utilities: Cleveland, Shelbyville and Springfield. Each of the utilities were contacted and to do ate we have not received the requested information. |
| Maryville Police Department Home Fleet Program Report/Study (Created: 2002-01-11; Reviewed: 2021-07-02 ) The purpose of this study was to analyze the feasibility of a home fleet (take home car) program. |
| Massage Parlor License Application Form (Created: 2002-06-01; Reviewed: 2021-06-22 ) This massage parlor license application for Thornton, Colorado includes a checklist, the application, authorization, background, zoning referral, and city code section. |
| Master Patrolman Program General (Created: 2002-03-05; Reviewed: 2021-05-07 ) The Master Patrolman program would compensate an officer for attaining a certain level of achievement. |
| Maximum Fee For Bad Checks Legal Opinion (Created: 2017-04-24; Reviewed: 2021-07-13 ) A legal opinion on the maximum that a city can charge for a bad check. |
| Mayor Can Vote to Break a Tie or Be a Member of the Quorum Legal Opinion (Created: 1993-06-29; Reviewed: 2021-07-21 ) MTAS was asked, if four alderman are required to make a quorum and several resign, leaving only three, whether the mayor may act as an alderman. |
| Mayor Making Nominations General (Created: 2007-02-21; Reviewed: 2021-07-21 ) MTAS was asked whether it is proper for the Mayor to make nominations. |
| Mayor Pro Tem to Hire Consulting Attorney Legal Opinion (Created: 2003-06-30; Reviewed: 2021-07-15 ) MTAS was asked to review ordinance permitting mayor pro tem to hire consulting attorney. |
| Mayor Refuses to Take an Oath of Office Legal Opinion (Created: 1991-03-01; Reviewed: 2021-06-09 ) MTAS was asked whether, if the mayor refuses to take an oath of office, his seat is considered vacant. |
| Mayor Wishes to Appoint One of the Aldermen to the Planning Commission When the Mayor and One of the Aldermen Are Already Members of the Planning Commission Legal Opinion (Created: 2003-01-24; Reviewed: 2021-07-26 ) MTAS was asked whether the mayor can appoint members of the city's governing body to the planning commission as "citizen" members of that commission. |
| Mayor's Appointment of Staff General (Created: 2012-04-10; Reviewed: 2021-07-16 ) MTAS was asked for clarification on the appointment of the fire chief and assistant fire chief under the city's charter and municipal ordinances. |
| Mayor's Compensation and COLA Legal Opinion (Created: 2010-05-11; Reviewed: 2021-07-15 ) MTAS was asked whether the language in the city charter either entitles or authorizes the mayor to cost of living increases. |
| Mayor's Employment and Potential Conflict of Interest Legal Opinion (Created: 2022-05-18; Reviewed: 2022-05-31 ) MTAS was asked whether the mayor is precluded from doing landscaping work for private property owners on private property located within the town as part of the mayor's outside employment. |
| Mayor's Obligation to Carry Out the Will of the Board Legal Opinion (Created: 1993-02-11; Reviewed: 2021-07-21 ) MTAS was asked whether the Mayor can refuse to sign a contract that the Board of Aldermen have voted to approve. |
| Mayor's Replacement of Planning Commission Legal Opinion (Created: 2011-09-28; Reviewed: 2021-07-26 ) MTAS was asked about the tenure of the planning commission members and other issues. |
| Mayor's Right to Make Motions and Speak on Matters Before the City Council Legal Opinion (Created: 2010-07-06; Reviewed: 2021-07-21 ) MTAS was asked whether the mayor may make motions and speak on matters on issues on which he has the right to vote. |
| Mayor's Right to Vote or Make Motions Legal Opinion (Created: 2008-04-01; Reviewed: 2021-07-15 ) MTAS was asked whether the mayor had the right to vote or make motions. |
| Mayor's Salary and COLA Legal Opinion (Created: 2008-03-18; Reviewed: 2021-07-15 ) MTAS was asked whether the mayor is entitled to COLA under Article XI, Section 9 of the Tennessee Constitution, and if he is now, whether he must pay back COLA's paid to him. |
| Mayor's Salary and Compensation Are Not the Same Thing Legal Opinion (Created: 2002-08-14; Reviewed: 2021-07-15 ) MTAS was asked to analyze the law governing the salary and compensation of the mayor. |
| Mayor's Voting in Planning Commission Meetings Legal Opinion (Created: 2005-01-20; Reviewed: 2021-07-26 ) MTAS was asked whether the mayor has a voice on the planning commission when he has appointed a substitute under TCA 13-4-101 or 6-54-112. |
| Mayoral Compensation in Selected Small Cities with a Strong Mayor Form of Government Survey (Created: 2020-01-22; Reviewed: 2021-07-30 ) Nine Tennessee cities with a population of no more than 2,000 citizens and with a strong mayor form of government responded to a request for information regarding the mayor's compensation in their city. |
| Mayoral Compensation in Selected Small Cities with Strong Mayor Form of Government Survey (Created: 2021-04-05; Reviewed: 2021-06-25 ) Tennessee cities with a strong mayor form of government responded to a request for information regarding mayoral salaries. |
| Mayoral Proclamation General (Created: 2016-06-23; Reviewed: 2021-07-26 ) A proclamation of the City of Dunlap Mayor and Board of Commissioners Declaring June 9, 2016, as Dakota Hudson Day in the City of Dunlap, Tennessee. |
| McCain-Feingold Campaign Reform Act Legal Opinion (Created: 2001-06-26; Reviewed: 2021-06-10 ) A city cannot pass a model of the McCain-Feingold Campaign Reform Act for local application. |
| McMinnville Goal-Setting Report Report/Study (Created: 2002-04-17; Reviewed: 2021-07-08 ) The McMinnville City Council and City staff met to establish a set of goals to help guide the city's efforts over the next several years. |
| McMinnville, Tennessee, Fire Station Study Report/Study (Created: 2012-09-28; Reviewed: 2021-07-22 ) The purpose of this study is to evaluate the city's distribution of fire stations and to determine whether the city needs a third fire station or if relocating one or both of the existing stations would provide adequate coverage. The study reviews the current roster of fire apparatus and makes recommendations on the city's fire apparatus needs. The scope of this study includes a review of the present ISO rating, meeting OSHA and NFPA requirements, and fire service best practices regarding deployment of resources. |
| Meaning of Majority Vote for Planning Commission Legal Opinion (Created: 2003-07-24; Reviewed: 2021-07-26 ) MTAS was asked whether a majority of the body is required to vote in the affirmative for approval of a matter, or if a majority of the quorum is sufficient. |
| Measuring Methods Used in Beer Distance Regulations Legal Opinion (Created: 2008-09-10; Reviewed: 2021-07-21 ) MTAS was asked what measuring methods are used in beer distance regulations when a city's ordinance does not provide for those methods. |
| Mechanic Job Description (Created: 2001-08-24; Reviewed: 2021-05-07 ) Job description for the position of Mechanic. |
| Memorializing in City Hall: an MTAS Survey Survey (Created: 2009-09-30; Reviewed: 2021-07-21 ) Nine cities were asked about the practice of placing plaques, framed photos, etc. in the city council chamber or meeting room to honor or memorialize individuals. Includes sample policies and inductee form. |
| Mental Health Return to Duty Evaluation Form Survey Survey (Created: 2017-05-26; Reviewed: 2021-05-07 ) A survey of selected cities to determine if those cities employ the use of a mental health return to duty evaluation form. |
| Merger of Municipal Utilities Legal Opinion (Created: 2001-05-14; Reviewed: 2021-05-20 ) MTAS was asked to explain the legal process for merging the water systems of two cities. |
| Meter Reader Job Description (Created: 2002-09-27; Reviewed: 2021-04-14 ) Job description for the position of Meter Reader. |
| Method the City Uses in Paying Worker's Compensation Legal Opinion (Created: 1997-08-18; Reviewed: 2021-07-15 ) MTAS was asked whether it was legal for the city to pay an injured employee their regular paychecks for up to fourteen calendar days afer the day of injury and require the employee to return to the city any worker's compensation benefits they may have received. |
| Metropolitan Government Report/Study (Created: 2011-10-12; Reviewed: 2021-07-21 ) A report on the process of consolidation in Tennessee, as well as the pros and cons of consolidated government. |
| Military Leave and School Patrol Officers in Selected Tennessee Cities Survey (Created: 2018-07-06; Reviewed: 2021-05-07 ) Twelve cities in Tennessee were surveyed regarding employees who deploy on military leave and whether or not they accrue benefits while gone. Those surveyed were also asked about School Crossing Guards and what benefits, if any are available to them. |
| Minority Set-Aside Program Legality in Tennessee Municipalities Legal Opinion (Created: 2002-06-27; Reviewed: 2021-06-22 ) MTAS was asked whether minority set-aside quotas or set-aside goals are legal on the part of Tennessee municipalities. |
| Misuse of City Equipment in Political Campaigns Legal Opinion (Created: 2006-06-26; Reviewed: 2021-05-07 ) MTAS was asked whether the fire chief may take the city's fire engine to a political rally for the city attorney. |
| Mobile Food Units and Fire Permits Report/Study (Created: 2023-08-08; Reviewed: 2023-08-08 ) An MTAS report summarizing Public Chapter 390, Acts of 2023, relative to fire safety requirements for mobile food units in Tennessee. |
| Mobile Homes as Preexisting Nonconforming Uses Legal Opinion (Created: 2012-08-04; Reviewed: 2021-04-28 ) MTAS was asked whether the city can adopt regulations that allow mobile home owners to rebuild on the original footprint of a structure destroyed by fire, or other reasons. |
| Model Carbon Monoxide (CO) Alarm Response Policy Form (Created: 2016-12-05; Reviewed: 2021-07-22 ) This model policy was created to provide procedures for personnel to follow for the safe investigation and mitigation of reported carbon monoxide (CO) incidents. |
| Model Fire Sprinkler Ordinance Form (Created: 2019-12-03; Reviewed: 2021-05-21 ) This is a model fire sprinkler ordinance for both commercial and residential property. Fire sprinkler systems save lives, property, and reduce the potential for large fires in the community, thus protecting the tax base. |
| Model Juvenile Fire Setter Standard Operating Procedure General (Created: 2019-11-13; Reviewed: 2021-05-21 ) The purpose of this guideline is to establish a consistent procedure in partnership with community resources for the screening, education and referral of youths who have been identified as misusing ignition sources (matches, lighters, or fireworks) or starting a fire, either unintentionally or maliciously. |
| Model Municipal Debt Policy General (Created: 2011-10-31; Reviewed: 2021-12-21 ) The purpose of this debt policy is to establish a set of parameters by which debt obligations will be undertaken by the City. (NOTE: Bold language or similar statements are required by the State of TN Comptroller's Office. Italicized language is recommended along with other components in GFOA's Model Debt Policy.) |
| Model Press Release for Fire Hydrant Inspections and Flow Testing Form (Created: 2016-10-04; Reviewed: 2021-05-20 ) The model press release may be customized and used by any fire department to inform residents and business owners in their community that the fire department will be conducting inspection, maintenance, and flow testing of fire hydrants in the community. |
| Model Procurement Code Amendment for Purchases Through Competitive Sealed Proposals Ordinance (Created: 2022-10-10; Reviewed: 2023-02-16 ) MTAS and the Tennessee State Comptroller are required by state law (T.C.A.12-3-1207(d)) to "develop a model procurement code that may be adopted by any municipality to guide the governing body and purchasing agent in making purchases through requests for competitive sealed proposals. The model procurement code shall contain provisions allowing an aggrieved respondent to protest the intended award to another respondent if the protest is filed within seven (7) calendar days after the intended award is announced. The protest shall be filed with and decided by the municipal governing body." This model ordinance, developed by MTAS in conjunction with the Comptroller's Office and updated in response to Public Acts of 2022, Chapter No. 779 (effective April 8, 2022), satisfies this statutory requirement. |
| Model Public Records Policy General (Created: 2017-01-19; Reviewed: 2021-04-22 ) Pursuant to the requirements of Public Chapter 722, Acts of 2016, the Tennessee Office of Open Records Counsel released the Model Public Records Policy with accompanying material. |
| Model Resolution Directing Payment of Tax Equivalents Resolution (Created: 2004-04-02; Reviewed: 2021-07-29 ) MTAS was asked to create a resolution for payment in lieu of taxes. |
| Model Stormwater Utility Ordinance Ordinance (Created: 2002-07-29; Reviewed: 2021-05-26 ) A model ordinance that creates and funds a stormwater utility. |
| Model Succession Plan Report/Study (Created: 2009-12-10; Reviewed: 2021-05-07 ) Includes a model succession plan and a succession plan for McMinnville. |
| Moral Turpitude Legal Opinion (Created: 2001-05-10; Reviewed: 2021-07-21 ) MTAS was asked if DUI and passing a bad check are offenses involving moral turpitude. |
| Morristown City Administrator Job Description Job Description (Created: 2009-10-05; Reviewed: 2021-07-08 ) Job description for the position of City Administrator. |
| Morristown Fire Department Driver Training Standard Operating Guideline General (Created: 2014-12-30; Reviewed: 2021-05-20 ) This document includes: information on EVOC timed evaluations and station skill sheets for the practical, fire apparatus driver/operator; forms to request to qualify and to certify as a driver trainee; a driver trainee checklist and fire apparatus operator practical checklist; certification for out-of-grade pay; and request for upgrade pay. |
| Morristown Fleet Management Survey Survey (Created: 2016-12-16; Reviewed: 2021-05-26 ) Eight cities responded to an MTAS survey about their fleet management, including number and types of vehicles, work bays, and lifts, plus information on staffing, work orders, calls for service, and routine maintenance. |
| Morristown Police (or Fire) Chief Annual Evaluation Form (Created: 2016-02-16; Reviewed: 2021-05-18 ) This form may be used for the annual performance appraisal of the police or fire chief. |
| Morristown, Tennessee, Fire Services Study Report/Study (Created: 2012-09-30; Reviewed: 2021-07-22 ) The purpose of this study is to evaluate the entire fire department and make recommendations related to fire department management, operations, resources, and enhanced level of services. The scope of this study included review of the present ISO rating, meeting OSHA and NFPA requirements, and best practice management of the fire department. |
| Mount Carmel Mayoral Analysis Report Report/Study (Created: 2020-08-21; Reviewed: 2021-09-16 ) MTAS was asked to weigh in on the possibility of Mount Carmel changing the term of the mayoral office from the current 4 years to 2 years. |
| Mount Juliet City Manager Resume Review Worksheet Form (Created: 2001-08-03; Reviewed: 2021-07-15 ) Resume review form for position of city manager. |
| Mount Pleasant, Tennessee, Comprehensive Fire Management Overview Report/Study (Created: 2016-06-30; Reviewed: 2022-10-18 ) MTAS conducted this study by a review of submitted documentation, field study work involving interviews with Mount Pleasant personnel, physical inspection of the fire station and equipment, and a tour of the service area. This report provides an outside perspective of the city's fire services and future needs. |
| Mountainous Residential District Regulations Ordinance (Created: 2014-09-24; Reviewed: 2021-04-29 ) MTAS provided a file copy of draft regulations for a new R-M2 mountainous residential district, plus several examples of adopted hillside development regulations and zoning ordinances. |
| Moving a Building to Another Piece of Property Legal Opinion (Created: 2011-03-22; Reviewed: 2021-04-29 ) MTAS was asked whether a certain city resident could move a building to another piece of property without a building permit and includes surrounding issues that arose from that question. |
| MS4 Stormwater Documents 2016 Form (Created: 2016-10-06; Reviewed: 2021-05-26 ) This collection of stormwater documents includes: NPDES General Permit for Discharges from Small Municipal Separate Storm Sewer Systems; Rationale Sheet; Addendum to Rationale (NOD); Phase II Stormwater Permit Notice of Intent (NOI); an MTAS 2016 Model MS4 Notice of Intent (NOI) that has been reviewed by TDEC; and Form for Annual Report. |
| Mt. Juliet, Tennessee, Fire Services Study Report/Study (Created: 2012-01-23; Reviewed: 2021-07-22 ) MTAS was asked to provide analysis of the best fire service options for Mt. Juliet. |
| Mt. Pleasant Water Department Water Shortage/Drought Management Plan General (Created: 2021-07-12; Reviewed: 2021-09-17 ) The Mt. Pleasant Water department created a plan to establish policies, rules and plans to be used during a drought or water shortage. |
| MTAS Comprehensive Fire Management Overview for Harriman, Tennessee Report/Study (Created: 2015-08-31; Reviewed: 2021-07-22 ) MTAS conducted this CMR by review of submitted documentation, field study work involving interviews with Harriman personnel, physical inspection of the fire stations and equipment, and a tour of the service area. |
| MTAS Golf Course Survey Survey (Created: 2013-02-21; Reviewed: 2021-06-21 ) Four cities were asked several questions about their golf courses, including operations, funding, green fees, usage by local colleges and high schools, and number of rounds of golf played in FY 2012 |
| MTAS Guidance on the Limited Reuse of N95 Respirators General (Created: 2020-04-02; Reviewed: 2021-07-22 ) With the severe shortage of N95 respirators, many municipalities and other organizations are faced with the dilemma of reusing N95 respirators, using a lessor form of protection, such as a surgical mark, trying to make their own mask or respirator, or going without any respiratory protection. |
| MTAS Guides To Water Systems for Tennessee Municipal Elected Officials General (Created: 2020-08-14; Reviewed: 2021-04-09 ) These six guides are part of a series created by MTAS for elected officials in Tennessee municipalities. Each guide is an overview of the tools used and the some of the requirements as specified by the State of Tennessee. Topics covered are corrosion, turbidity, microbiological issues, disinfection, disinfection byproducts and cross-connections. |
| MTAS Near-Miss Reporting Standard Operating Procedure Template Form (Created: 2018-04-12; Reviewed: 2021-05-21 ) This MTAS template to report near-misses can be customized to meet local needs. |
| MTAS on Robert's Rules of Order General (Created: 2019-05-17; Reviewed: 2021-07-16 ) A series of brief, instructive articles explaining the use Robert's Rules of Order for cities and towns in Tennessee. The series starts with the history of the Robert's Rules parliamentary procedures and delves into everything from making a motion to adjourning a meeting. |
| MTAS Purchasing Guide and Sample Purchasing Procedures 2023 General (Created: 2022-12-01; Reviewed: 2023-02-28 ) Tennessee has many general laws that govern purchasing by municipalities including the 1983 Municipal Purchasing Law, the Competitive Sealed Proposals provisions under T.C.A. § 12-3-1207, the Contracts for Professional Services provisions under T.C.A. § 12-3-1209 and § 12-4-107, the Interlocal Cooperation Act, the Iran Divestment Act, etc. The MTAS Purchasing Guide provides a general overview and citations for those general laws, and the accompanying MTAS Sample Purchasing Procedures contain best practices for implementing the state and federal regulations. |
| MTAS Signing Bonuses and Referral Incentives Survey Survey (Created: 2022-05-23; Reviewed: 2022-06-03 ) The MTAS Research and Information Center conducted a survey to find out how Tennessee municipalities handle signing bonuses and referral incentives and thirteen cities responded to the request for information. |
| MTAS Tax Sale Procedures Survey Survey (Created: 2019-08-15; Reviewed: 2021-07-13 ) Six Tennessee cities were surveyed to find out how sales on properties with delinquent taxes are handled. |
| MTAS/CTAS ADA Compliance Officer Training 2018 General (Created: 2018-06-05; Reviewed: 2021-07-29 ) Materials from an MTAS/CTAS statewide class designed for those city and county staff with ADA compliance responsibilities. Information resources includes the extensive class handout as well as the class slide presentation. |
| Municipal and Personal Liability Under the Tennessee Tort Liability Act Made Simple General (Created: 2001-08-17; Reviewed: 2021-05-07 ) Details the effects of the Tennessee Tort Liability Act regarding municipal and personal liability. |
| Municipal Authority to Charge Sewer Tap Fees Legal Opinion (Created: 1994-10-14; Reviewed: 2021-04-26 ) MTAS was asked under what authority municipalities charge sewer tap fees. |
| Municipal Banking Services Must Now Be Evaluated Every Four Years (Public Chapter 277 of 2019) General (Created: 2019-10-15; Reviewed: 2021-07-13 ) MTAS resources and guidance on Public Chapter 277 of 2019 which requires a contract for banking services be based on the evaluation of proposals, which should be documented for audit purposes. Attached are a Q & A and a sample quote for banking services for use by Tennessee municipalities. Also included here is a link to the MTAS City Byte, an online short course, on the topic. |
| Municipal Bonds General (Created: 2012-09-11; Reviewed: 2021-04-23 ) Local governments generally should consider using bond issues for large, long-term debt of more than $1 million and for longer than 12 years. The various types of municipal bonds include general obligation bonds, special tax bonds and special assessments, revenue bonds, industrial revenue bonds, and double-barrel bonds. |
| Municipal Clerk Job Description Job Description (Created: 2002-09-24; Reviewed: 2021-07-26 ) Job description for the position of Clerk. |
| Municipal Code Citation Form (Created: 2007-07-26; Reviewed: 2021-06-21 ) A citation form to be used by the City of Smithville for offenses that are not traffic related. |
| Municipal Codes Inspector Job Description (Created: 2005-04-22; Reviewed: 2021-05-07 ) A job description for the position of municipal codes inspector. |
| Municipal Court Clerk Job Description (Created: 2002-09-24; Reviewed: 2021-07-28 ) Job description for the position of Municipal Court Clerk. |
| Municipal Court Survey 2020 Survey (Created: 2020-10-20; Reviewed: 2021-07-28 ) MTAS conducted a statewide survey of municipal court clerk contacts available in the MTAS city directory. Survey invitations were sent to 234 contacts and 105 surveys were completed. Questions about municipal court operations are frequent and over the years MTAS has conducted several smaller surveys. This survey was an attempt to combine the previous surveys into one comprehensive resource. |
| Municipal Government Intern Job Description Job Description (Created: 2020-07-29; Reviewed: 2021-07-16 ) A job description to be used by any city or town when creating and recruiting for a municipal government intern. |
| Municipal Judge, Without Concurrent Jurisdiction, Hearing State Misdemeanor Charges Legal Opinion (Created: 2002-07-17; Reviewed: 2021-07-28 ) MTAS researched the ability of a municipal judge, without concurrent jurisdiction, to hear state misdemeanor charges. |
| Municipal Officers, Municipal Employees, Ministerial Officers, and General Supervision Legal Opinion (Created: 2009-09-03; Reviewed: 2021-06-22 ) MTAS was asked the difference between an officer and an employee, what is a ministerial officer, and what does the term "general supervision" mean with respect to a mayor's right to exercise general supervision over certain city officers or employees. |
| Municipal Purchasing Procedures (Non-Sealed Bid) Form (Created: 2022-01-25; Reviewed: 2022-02-11 ) Municipalities subject to the Purchasing Law of 1983, may wish to increase the maximum amount that exempts public advertisement and competitive bids from $2,500 to up to $10,000. To do so requires passage of an ordinance that adjusts the dollar amounts. This model does not include the language required to adopt the competitive sealed proposal method of procurement. If the municipality chooses to utilize the competitive sealed proposal method as authorized by TCA § 12-3-1207 a procurement code must be adopted by ordinance. Purchasing procedures may be adopted by resolution, however, the procurement code must be adopted by ordinance. |
| Municipal Regulations Governing Blasting Legal Opinion (Created: 1993-09-03; Reviewed: 2021-06-25 ) MTAS was asked whether Tennessee Code Annotated, ' 68-44-110 et seq. preempts any municipal regulations governing blasting. |
| Municipal Work on Private Property Legal Opinion (Created: 2018-08-07; Reviewed: 2021-05-26 ) Analyzes the law governing right of a city to spend money to make improvements on private property. |
| Municipalities Enacting an Auto Decal Charge General (Created: 2018-04-06; Reviewed: 2021-07-21 ) MTAS was asked to review the auto decal charge implemented by the City of Chattanooga and advise whether it was feasible for this town to implement. |
| Municipality Conducting Drainage Issue Mitigation Work on Private Property General (Created: 2020-03-31; Reviewed: 2020-07-15 ) A city administrator contacted MTAS regarding the town doing drainage work on private property. Public Works Consultant John Chlarson responded to the request, explaining that the water issue is causing damage to the town's right of way. It is recommended that the ditch be rechannelized and that channel and bank protection should be installed. |
| Municipality Liability for Damages Caused by Failing Drainage Systems Legal Opinion (Created: 2022-05-25; Reviewed: 2022-06-03 ) MTAS Legal Consultant Melissa Ashburn responded to a Tennessee city's request for information regarding a municipality's responsibility to homeowners in the event of failed drainage system damage. |
| Municipality May Have to Return Money Paid By a User Who Was Billed for Sewer Service When No Sewer Service Was Provided or Available Legal Opinion (Created: 1993-07-02; Reviewed: 2021-04-23 ) MTAS was asked whether a municipality has to return money paid by an outside water user who was also billed for sewer service when no sewer service was provided or available. |
| Municipality Paying Attorney Fees for Private Residents Who Sued the Municipality Legal Opinion (Created: 2022-09-23; Reviewed: 2023-01-06 ) MTAS was asked to provide an opinion on the matter of a town using public funds to pay for attorney's fees for private residents who successfully challenged the passage of an ordinance related to a rezoning request. |
| Murfreesboro Fire Rescue Department 2019-2024 Strategic Plan Report/Study (Created: 2018-09-01; Reviewed: 2023-09-01 ) MTAS Fire Management Consultant Steve Cross conducted a 5-year strategic planning process for the Murfreesboro Fire Rescue Department and this document is the result which identifies the departmental goals, objectives, and critical tasks for 2019 to 2024. |
| MUTCD and Engineering Study for Traffic Light Legal Opinion (Created: 2007-09-04; Reviewed: 2020-05-04 ) Citizen ran a red light and alleges that he cannot be convicted of running the light because the installation of the light was not supported by an engineering study as required by the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD). |
| Mutual Aid Assistance in Tennessee: A Collection of Resources from MTAS General (Created: 2020-04-09; Reviewed: 2021-07-22 ) A collection of resources on mutual aid assistance in Tennessee. The collection includes MTAS Hot Topics, a legal opinion from former MTAS Legal Constant Dennis Huffer, a full text document of Public Chapter 743, and two mutual aid assistance agreement templates. |
| Mutual Aid Update: FEMA Reimbursement of Mutual Aid Costs Under Certain Conditions. General (Created: 2011-12-17; Reviewed: 2021-07-22 ) FEMA will reimburse mutual aid costs under certain conditions. |
| N95 Respirators and Respiratory Protection Q & A: A Hot Topic for Tennessee Municipalities General (Created: 2020-03-30; Reviewed: 2021-05-21 ) With the shortage of N95 respirators, which is the type of respirator recommended by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) for respiratory protection against the coronavirus, MTAS has received questions about the reuse of N95 respirators and alternate types of respirators and masks. This hot topic provides information on N95 respirators and other types of respiratory protection. MTAS does not recommend or endorse any products. Cities should use this information as a resource when making decisions for their operations. |
| Natural Gas Basics (Created: 2022-05-18; Reviewed: 2022-05-18 ) This guide provides basic information concerning natural gas as it relates to a municipal gas system or local distribution customer (LDC). It is not intended to be an all-inclusive detailed discussion on natural gas. |
| Need for a City Administrator Report/Study (Created: 2003-06-05; Reviewed: 2021-07-08 ) MTAS was asked to assist theTown of Spencer in converting to a city administrator form of government. |
| Need for Professional Management Report/Study (Created: 2009-08-28; Reviewed: 2021-07-15 ) A report addressing the issue of employing professional managers or administrators who have municipal experience. |
| Need for Professional Management Experience General (Created: 2009-05-26; Reviewed: 2021-05-18 ) The purpose of this letter is to increase awareness of the issues that need to be considered when hiring a city administrator. |
| Negotiating Price with the Low Bidder When There Is Only One Bid on a Municipal Purchase Legal Opinion (Created: 1997-02-04; Reviewed: 2021-07-29 ) MTAS was asked whether the city can negotiate price with the low bidder when there is only one bid on a municipal purchase. |
| New Fire Station Design Standards General (Created: 2003-09-08; Reviewed: 2021-07-22 ) MTAS received a question on the construction of a new fire station. |
| New Officials' Tips General (Created: 2002-06-06; Reviewed: 2021-04-16 ) MTAS consultants ranked their top fifteen tips for new officials. |
| New Statutory Requirements for Meetings of Municipal Governing Bodies General (Created: 2023-06-01; Reviewed: 2023-09-07 ) The 113th General Assembly amended the Tennessee Open Meetings Act with two separate public chapters that will impact your municipality. Those public chapters are Public Chapter 213, Acts of 2023 (requires meeting agendas for meetings of the local legislative body to be made available 48 hours prior to the meeting), and Public Chapter 300, Acts of 2023 (requires a public comment period at each public meeting). The summary and comments on both are found in the attached document. |
| New Youth Sports Concussion and Head Injury Law Effective January 1, 2014 General (Created: 2013-12-11; Reviewed: 2021-06-21 ) Public Chapter 148 passed by the Tennessee General Assembly in April 2013 and effective on January 1, 2014, requires all cities that have 'youth athletic activities' to comply with guidelines issued by the Tennessee Department of Health concerning risk and symptoms of concussion and head injuries. |
| Newly Elected Official’s Guide to Taking Office General (Created: 2019-11-14; Reviewed: 2021-10-20 ) You just won an election for your municipal office. Now what? We address some common questions of when and how you take office, who may administer your oath, and what information should be included the oath of office in this document. Sample oath templates for boards, judges and other offices are included for Tennessee municipal use. Also, we have short online course (City Byte) linked below that will walk you through the following topics: when do you take office, who can swear you in, what should be in the oath and what's next. |
| NFPA 1582: Standard on Medical Requirements for Firefighters and Fire Department Physicians Form (Created: 2019-09-24; Reviewed: 2021-05-21 ) This is an NFPA sample form for conducting a physical medical examination for a firefighter. |
| Nolensville, Tennessee, Fire Services Study Report/Study (Created: 2012-09-28; Reviewed: 2021-07-22 ) The purpose of this fire study is to answer two questions: 1. What options are available to the Town of Nolensville regarding the provision of fire protection, emergency medical response, and related emergency services for the town? 2. Can MTAS provide a recommendation for a fire protection plan for the Town of Nolensville at build-out? |
| Nomination for Filling the Vacancy on a City Council Form (Created: 2015-07-13; Reviewed: 2021-07-21 ) The City of Kingsport requested a nomination form for filling a city council vacancy. |
| Non-Compliance with Governor Lee’s Executive Orders Nos. 17, 21 and 22: Guidance for Tennessee Municipalities General (Created: 2020-03-25; Reviewed: 2021-06-22 ) Guidance for municipalities on a course of action for business owners who may refuse the guidelines of Executive Orders Nos. 17, 21, and 22. |
| Non-Resident of a Town Holding the Office of Alderman Legal Opinion (Created: 1994-06-15; Reviewed: 2021-07-21 ) MTAS was asked whether a non-resident of the town can hold the office of alderman. |
| Norris Citizen Survey Survey (Created: 2008-07-18; Reviewed: 2021-07-08 ) An example of a citizen survey on the topics of annexation, taxation, and growth. |
| Norris City Manager Evaluation Form (Created: 2009-02-01; Reviewed: 2021-07-08 ) MTAS was asked to create an evaluation form based on requirements from the city's charter and code. |