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Municipal Technical Advisory Service (MTAS)

Displaying 1 - 261 of 261 Knowledgebase documents.
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Calculating Overtime Pay for Firefighters and Police
General (Created: 2012-05-08; Reviewed: 2021-04-09 )

MTAS was asked to clarify how to calculate pay for non-exempt law enforcement and fire protection personnel.
Call-out and overtime compensation for utility workers survey
Survey (Created: 2017-06-09; Reviewed: 2021-05-26 )

A survey of selected cities on compensation of utility employees for call-out and overtime work.
Can Cities Surrender Their Zoning Powers by Interlocal Agreement?
Legal Opinion (Created: 2006-09-18; Reviewed: 2021-05-05 )

MTAS was asked whether cities can surrender their zoning powers by interlocal agreement under Public Chapter 1101.
Can Facebook Images Be Used As Evidence For Municipal Violation And Citation?
General (Created: 2017-10-31; Reviewed: 2021-04-26 )

MTAS responds to a question regarding whether images on Facebook be used as evidence for municipal violation and citation.
Can the City Attorney Also Serve as the City Judge?
Legal Opinion (Created: 1993-05-06; Reviewed: 2021-07-30 )

MTAS was asked whether the city attorney can also serve as the city judge.
Can the City Enact Term Limits on Aldermen by Ordinance?
Legal Opinion (Created: 1994-09-13; Reviewed: 2021-06-25 )

MTAS was asked whether the City can enact term limits on aldermen by ordinance.
Can the City Make Appropriations to Nonprofit Organizations?
Legal Opinion (Created: 1994-03-08; Reviewed: 2021-07-27 )

MTAS was asked whether the city can make appropriations to nonprofit organizations and, if so, what is the proper procedure.
Can the County Sheriff Increase the Cost of Housing Prisoners Arrested by the City?
Legal Opinion (Created: 1996-04-01; Reviewed: 2021-07-01 )

MTAS was asked whether the county sheriff can, on his own initiative, increase the cost of housing prisoners arrested by the city for the violation of state law or municipal ordinances.
Candidate Running for Two Municipal Offices
Legal Opinion (Created: 2010-06-02; Reviewed: 2021-06-25 )

MTAS was asked whether a single individual can be a candidate for two municipal offices on the same ballot.
Candidates for School Board Seats Must Be Residents of the District They Represent
Legal Opinion (Created: 2012-11-12; Reviewed: 2021-07-15 )

Members of county and city school boards of education must be residents of and elected from the districts they represent.
Canine Team Policy
General (Created: 2002-01-10; Reviewed: 2021-05-18 )

The purpose of this policy is to establish the mission of the canine team, establish procedures for the use of the canine team, and outline the responsibilities of the canine handler.
Caps on Compensatory Time
General (Created: 2012-07-16; Reviewed: 2021-04-09 )

MTAS was asked about the amount of compensatory time that an employee may accumulate.
Car Allowance Survey
Survey (Created: 2012-01-30; Reviewed: 2021-06-15 )

Twenty-one cities responded to a survey about whether they have car allowances, who is eligible for car allowances, and the amount of the car allowance.
Caught in the Middle of Leadership
General (Created: 2003-07-31; Reviewed: 2021-06-28 )

Middle management in the fire service can be quite a balancing act.
Central Purchasing Agent Required to Increase Bid Threshold
Legal Opinion (Created: 2022-10-05; Reviewed: 2023-01-05 )

MTAS Legal Consultant Stephanie O'Hara responded to a request for information regarding increasing the bid threshold in the community to $25,000.
Certificate of Compliance and Issuing Alcoholic Beverage Licenses
Legal Opinion (Created: 2022-02-11; Reviewed: 2022-02-11 )

MTAS was asked for a legal opinion regarding the following question: "If the City receives a certificate of compliance application that is otherwise satisfactory in all regards, must the City grant a liquor license up to 10 such licenses?"
Certificate of Compliance for Wine in Grocery Stores
Form (Created: 2016-01-11; Reviewed: 2021-07-15 )

MTAS was asked to supply a certificate of compliance for selling wine in grocery stores.
Certificate of Compliance: Retail Package Store
Form (Created: 2011-04-20; Reviewed: 2021-07-15 )

A sample of the Certificate of Compliance form that most cities/towns use for their Certificate of Compliance.
Certification of Radar Operators
General (Created: 2003-08-26; Reviewed: 2021-05-12 )

MTAS was asked if there is any state law or regulation requiring police officers to be certified in radar operation.
Certified Municipal Finance Officer Program: An Impact Analysis
Report/Study (Created: 2016-01-29; Reviewed: 2021-07-29 )

This study examines whether the CMFO program improved municipal financial practices. The results indicate that the CMFO program has improved municipal financial practices by reducing the number of municipal financial errors in Tennessee cities.
Certified Population of Tennessee Incorporated Municipalities
General (Created: 2005-07-01; Reviewed: 2021-10-25 )

For use in the distribution of state shared taxes to incorporated municipalities.
Certifying Election Results Before Swearing In Newly Elected Officials
Legal Opinion (Created: 2012-11-09; Reviewed: 2021-07-23 )

MTAS was asked when elected officials may be sworn in after a recent election.
Chainsaw Use Standard Operating Procedure Template
Form (Created: 2020-05-15; Reviewed: 2022-05-21 )

Dennis Wolf created this template for Tennessee fire departments to use for training firefighters to use a chainsaw in the course of their work.
Chalking Tires for Parking Enforcement Is Unreasonable Search
General (Created: 2019-04-30; Reviewed: 2021-04-21 )

MTAS Legal Consultant Elisha Hodge notifies Tennessee municipalities that the US Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit opined that the practice of marking tires with chalk, in order to monitor how long a vehicle is parked in a parking space for the purpose of enforcing parking restrictions, is an unreasonable search in violation of the Fourth Amendment of the United States Constitution.
Chancery Court Judge
Legal Opinion (Created: 2002-05-20; Reviewed: 2021-07-25 )

MTAS was asked whether the city attorney can hold the position of chancery court judge.
Change of Subcontractor Listed on Bid When Bid Exceeds $25,000
Legal Opinion (Created: 2023-02-06; Reviewed: 2023-02-10 )

MTAS Legal Consultant Stephanie O'Hara responded to a request from a Tennessee city for information about how to make a change in the selected subcontractor when the bid exceeds $25,000.
Changes to Pay Schedule
General (Created: 2012-08-23; Reviewed: 2021-04-23 )

MTAS was asked about transitioning to a new payday date; the work week currently ends on Saturday, but Friday is payday.
Changing an Employee's Employment Status
Legal Opinion (Created: 2009-05-22; Reviewed: 2021-04-23 )

MTAS analyzed several questions related to legal implications associated with changing a certain employee's employment status.
Changing the Agenda of a Special Meeting During the Meeting
Legal Opinion (Created: 2006-11-09; Reviewed: 2021-07-07 )

MTAS was asked whether the city council can change the agenda of a special meeting during the meeting.
Charges for Copies of Accident Reports and Incident Reports
Legal Opinion (Created: 2012-03-23; Reviewed: 2021-04-21 )

This opinion from Tennessee Open Records Counsel addresses the amounts that a local government law enforcement agency is permitted to charge for a copy of accident reports and incident reports.
Charging Non-Users a Garbage Collection Fee and Requiring Garbage Collection Recipients to Use Only the City Garbage Collection Service
Legal Opinion (Created: 1993-09-16; Reviewed: 2021-04-09 )

MTAS was asked whether the city can charge garbage collection service recipients a garbage collection fee even if they do not use the service and whether the city can require garbage collection recipients to use only city garbage collection service.
Charging Time for Employee Court Appearance
General (Created: 2012-07-03; Reviewed: 2021-04-23 )

MTAS was asked how to pay a new employee for a personal court appearance when the employee has not yet earned vacation time.
Charitable Donation Policy
General (Created: 2014-10-17; Reviewed: 2021-07-26 )

MTAS provided several examples of charitable donation policies.
Charitable Roadblocks Ordinance
Ordinance (Created: 2021-12-21; Reviewed: 2022-03-04 )

An ordinance written for the Town of Baileyton, Tennessee allowing the volunteer fire department and other charitable organizations to raise money at additional roadblocks.
Charter and Conflict of Interest Questions
General (Created: 2006-01-26; Reviewed: 2021-06-15 )

MTAS was asked about Private Law Charters, whether city employees may run for elected office, and about conflict of interest.
Charter Provision Requires Mayor to Sign Warrants But Is Silent as to Checks
Legal Opinion (Created: 2000-01-11; Reviewed: 2021-07-19 )

MTAS was asked whether a 'warrant' is the same as a check for the purposes of a charter provision requiring the mayor to sign warrants, but is silent as to checks.
Charter Provisions Favoring Local Bidders
General (Created: 2009-02-24; Reviewed: 2021-06-15 )

MTAS was asked about retaining charter provisions favoring local bidders.
Charter Question about Property Taxes and Enforcing Ordinances
General (Created: 2004-06-03; Reviewed: 2021-04-30 )

MTAS was asked for a written explanation about the Town's authority to enforce its ordinances in relation to assessing or not assessing a property tax.
Charter Questions
Legal Opinion (Created: 2003-05-07; Reviewed: 2021-07-16 )

MTAS was asked questions concerning limiting the power of the mayor to vote on the board, requiring city officers to resign prior to running for another office, and forbidding family members from holding office at the same time.
Chief Accountant - Utilities
Job Description (Created: 2002-09-24; Reviewed: 2023-01-24 )

Job description for the position of Chief Accountant under the Utilities Department.
Chief Mechanic
Job Description (Created: 2001-08-16; Reviewed: 2021-04-23 )

Job description for the position of chief mechanic of the water and wastewater treatment plants for the City of Smyrna.
Chief of Police (1)
Job Description (Created: 2002-09-26; Reviewed: 2021-05-12 )

Job description for the position of Chief of Police.
Chief of Police Insists He Is Entitled to a Leave of Absence to Run for Office
Legal Opinion (Created: 1998-01-13; Reviewed: 2021-06-17 )

MTAS was asked whether the city is legally required to give the chief of police a leave of absence to run for office of sheriff of the county.
Chief Wastewater Plant Operator
Job Description (Created: 2002-09-27; Reviewed: 2021-07-16 )

Job description for the position of Chief Wastewater Plant Operator.
Chief Wastewater Plant Operator
Job Description (Created: 2001-08-16; Reviewed: 2021-04-23 )

Job description for the position of chief wastewater plant operator.
Christiana Fire Department Insurance Office Audit Report
Report/Study (Created: 2019-03-18; Reviewed: 2023-02-28 )

MTAS Fire Consultant Steve Cross reviewed the ISO rating for the Christiana Fire Department and made suggestions for the future.
Church Hill Methadone Treatment Clinic Ordinance
Ordinance (Created: 2009-04-21; Reviewed: 2021-05-20 )

An ordinance for the consideration of a methadone treatment clinic or facility and substance abuse treatment facility.
Citation Form for Offenses That Are Not Traffic Related
Form (Created: 2003-07-01; Reviewed: 2021-05-07 )

MTAS was asked to prepare a citation form to be used by the city for offenses that are not traffic related.
Citations in Lieu of Arrest and Ordinance Summonses
General (Created: 1999-10-28; Reviewed: 2021-05-20 )

MTAS was asked to prepare citations in lieu of arrest and ordinance summonses.
Cities Conducting Games or Contests for Money
General (Created: 2011-08-04; Reviewed: 2021-04-30 )

MTAS was asked whether a city can sponsor a contest that charges registration fees, with part of the proceeds being donated to the regional library and part of the proceeds used for prizes.
Cities Providing Fire Service Outside Their Limits
General (Created: 2011-12-19; Reviewed: 2021-06-28 )

MTAS was asked whether a County may contract with a City for fire protection for a specific area outside the town limits.
Cities with Recall Provisions
General (Created: 2006-01-23; Reviewed: 2021-06-15 )

MTAS was asked to determine which Tennessee cities have recall provisions.
Citizen Advisory Board Handbooks
Survey (Created: 2017-05-01; Reviewed: 2021-06-28 )

The MTAS Research and Information Center surveyed five Tennessee cities to find out if they provide a handbook to their citizen advisory boards.
Citizens Information Manager
Job Description (Created: 2002-09-24; Reviewed: 2021-04-23 )

Job description for the position of Citizens Information Manager.
Citizens Information Services Coordinator
Job Description (Created: 2002-09-24; Reviewed: 2021-04-23 )

Job description for the position of Citizens Information Services Coordinator.
Citizens Information Services Office Assistant
Job Description (Created: 2002-09-24; Reviewed: 2021-04-23 )

Job description for the position of Citizens Information Services Office Assistant.
Citizens Information Television Manager
Job Description (Created: 2002-09-24; Reviewed: 2021-04-23 )

Job description for the position of Citizens Information Television Manager.
Citizens Information Television Voice Mail Coordinator
Job Description (Created: 2002-09-24; Reviewed: 2021-04-23 )

Job description for the position of Citizens Information Television Voice Mail Coordinator.
City Administrator
Job Description (Created: 2002-09-24; Reviewed: 2021-04-26 )

Job description for the position of City Administrator.
City and Developer Enter Agreement to Provide Sewer Extensions and Recover Cost Through Sewer Tap Fees
Legal Opinion (Created: 1999-02-01; Reviewed: 2021-04-26 )

MTAS was asked whether the city and a developer may enter into an agreement to provide sewer extensions and recover the cost through sewer tap fees.
City as a Landlord Pending the Termination of Leases
Legal Opinion (Created: 1996-01-23; Reviewed: 2021-06-17 )

MTAS was asked whether the city can be a landlord pending the termination of leases on certain land it is considering buying in the vicinity of the glide path for the airport.
City Assumes Operation of the Presently Quasi-Independent Utility Board
Legal Opinion (Created: 2010-05-26; Reviewed: 2021-04-22 )

MTAS was asked several questions related to how a city assumes operation of the presently quasi-independent utility board.
City Attorney and Conflict of Interest
Legal Opinion (Created: 2022-03-01; Reviewed: 2022-05-13 )

MTAS Legal Consultant Stephanie Allen O'Hara responded to a request for information from a Tennessee city regarding conflict of interest and city officials.
City Authority over Housing Authority Board
Legal Opinion (Created: 2011-02-03; Reviewed: 2021-04-15 )

MTAS was asked questions about city authority over housing authority board, termination of housing authority board members, and any power city may have to enact policy changes in housing authority.
City Authority to Name State Highway
Legal Opinion (Created: 2003-03-24; Reviewed: 2020-05-28 )

MTAS was asked whether a city has the power to name a portion of a state highway located in the municipality, when a bill is introduced in the state legislature designating a name for the highway.
City Cemetery Policies and Charges Survey
Survey (Created: 2021-07-27; Reviewed: 2021-07-27 )

Survey of selected cities regarding cost of plots, policy on cremains, and infant burial.
City Charter Signatures
Legal Opinion (Created: 2001-09-25; Reviewed: 2021-06-18 )

MTAS was asked if signatures on a charter are directory or mandatory.
City Constructs Its Own Building and Uses Volunteer Labor
Legal Opinion (Created: 1995-09-06; Reviewed: 2021-05-14 )

MTAS was asked what the legal implications are of the city building a fire hall, partly with volunteer labor, and partly through subcontracting out particular jobs.
City Contract with Unlicensed Contractor
Legal Opinion (Created: 2001-08-01; Reviewed: 2021-05-04 )

MTAS was asked where a city has let a bid on a certain construction project (resurfacing a tennis court), the project is in progress, the contractor notifies the city that his contractor's license has been suspended and offers to reduce the cost of the project to less than $25,000, can the city legally accept his offer.
City Council Agenda Formats
General (Created: 2011-09-19; Reviewed: 2021-06-25 )

Four sample city council agendas and one study session agenda are included.
City Council Serving as School Board
Legal Opinion (Created: 2008-03-05; Reviewed: 2021-07-15 )

MTAS was asked about the city council acting as the school board and their noncompliance with Title 49.
City Court Clerk
Legal Opinion (Created: 2001-02-15; Reviewed: 2021-07-27 )

MTAS was asked whether the city has the right to make the city court clerk's position an appointive one.
City Court Judgments Are Not Stayed During Appeal
Legal Opinion (Created: 2009-01-06; Reviewed: 2021-07-27 )

MTAS was asked whether the judgment of a city court is suspended pending appeal.
City Donation to a Charitable Organization
Legal Opinion (Created: 2003-04-09; Reviewed: 2021-04-21 )

MTAS was asked whether a city may make an appropriation to a charitable or civic organization that is religious in nature.
City Donations to Non-Profit Organizations
Survey (Created: 2015-01-28; Reviewed: 2021-07-26 )

Twenty-two cities were asked if they had stopped making donations to non-profit organizations and whether there is a written policy supporting this decision.
City Employee Volunteering as a Reserve Police Officer
General (Created: 2001-03-16; Reviewed: 2021-05-12 )

MTAS was asked about the legality of a city employee 'volunteering' his/her time as a reserve police officer.
City Entering into a Contract with the YMCA to Allow City Residents to Use Their Pool
Legal Opinion (Created: 1995-06-23; Reviewed: 2021-07-25 )

MTAS was asked whether the city may enter into a fifteen year contract with the YMCA to allow city residents to use their pool.
City Establishes a Public Sanitary Sewer System
Ordinance (Created: 2014-09-02; Reviewed: 2021-05-12 )

MTAS provided an ordinance to adopt wastewater regulations and an agreement between the city and a utility district.
City Issues a Building Permit for a Project Which Causes a Drainage Problem
Legal Opinion (Created: 1996-12-17; Reviewed: 2020-04-21 )

MTAS was asked whether the city is liable when it issues a building permit when the project to which the building permit pertains causes a drainage problem.
City Judge Appointment Procedures
General (Created: 2009-04-17; Reviewed: 2021-07-27 )

The City of Brentwood developed a procedure for appointing a city judge.
City Judge Benefits Survey
Survey (Created: 2017-02-10; Reviewed: 2021-07-27 )

Seventeen cities responded to an MTAS survey about their city judge, including the number of hours worked, salary, and benefits participation.
City Judge Compensation and Benefits Survey
Survey (Created: 2007-08-20; Reviewed: 2021-07-27 )

Fifteen cities were asked several questions about the compensation and benefits package for their municipal judge.
City Judge Issuing State Warrant and Admissibility of Video Tape in DUI case
Legal Opinion (Created: 1993-02-18; Reviewed: 2021-07-20 )

MTAS was asked whether the city judge (who has concurrent jurisdiction) can issue a state warrant for a person who passes a school bus, upon the affidavit of the school bus driver, who doesn't know who was driving the car and whether a video tape of persons arrested for DUI is admissible at trial of the defendant.
City Judge Signing a Search Warrant in a State Case
Legal Opinion (Created: 2004-01-07; Reviewed: 2021-07-27 )

MTAS was asked whether a city judge can sign a search warrant in a state case, where the judge does not exercise concurrent jurisdiction.
City Judge, Vacancy, and Appointment of Special Judges
Legal Opinion (Created: 2009-12-24; Reviewed: 2021-07-27 )

MTAS was asked whether the city judge can hold two judgeships and use temporary appointments of special judges to fill a vacancy..
City Judges' Terms of Office
Legal Opinion (Created: 2000-08-17; Reviewed: 2021-07-27 )

MTAS was asked whether the city judge could refrain from taking office until eight months after the election.
City Liability for Liquidated Damages on a Terminated Contract
Legal Opinion (Created: 1991-07-17; Reviewed: 2021-07-25 )

MTAS was asked whether the Town is required to pay $10,000 in liquidated damages when it terminated a contract with a company.
City Manager Agreements, Severance Provisions, and Salary in Selected Tennessee Cities
Survey (Created: 2020-12-16; Reviewed: 2021-07-16 )

A survey of selected cities in Tennessee regarding city manager/administrator agreements and salary. Data includes covers agreement/contract, length of contract/agreement, severance package, insurance, tenure of manager, salary and car allowance.
City Manager Appointing Commissioner to Chief of Police Position
Legal Opinion (Created: 2007-11-06; Reviewed: 2021-06-28 )

MTAS was asked whether the city manager may appoint a member of the board of commissioners to the position of police officer in the city.
City Manager Employment Agreements and Severance Pay
Legal Opinion (Created: 1997-04-10; Reviewed: 2021-06-25 )

MTAS was asked what the former city manager's rights to severance pay are under the contract.
City Manager Evaluation
Form (Created: 2022-12-12; Reviewed: 2023-02-08 )

MTAS Management Consultant Honna Rogers created this performance review form for the members of the governing body to evaluate the city administrator.
City Manager Evaluation Cover Letter
General (Created: 2001-07-13; Reviewed: 2021-04-26 )

Information to aid in completing an evaluation of a city manager.
City Manager Evaluation Form
Form (Created: 2012-01-01; Reviewed: 2021-07-16 )

This form allows the city manager to be rated on leadership, fiscal management and budgeting, service delivery and administration, citizen and community relations, personal and professional qualities, and city council relations.
City Manager Evaluation Form
Form (Created: 2000-06-01; Reviewed: 2021-04-26 )

MTAS was asked to provide a form for the evaluation of a city manager.
City Manager Interview Questions
Form (Created: 2022-12-12; Reviewed: 2023-02-03 )

MTAS Management Consultant Honna Rogers created this list of interview questions for the Lakesite City Commission to use during their search for a City Manager.
City Manager Job Description in a Smaller General Law Manager-Commissioned City
Job Description (Created: 2020-09-01; Reviewed: 2021-07-16 )

A sample job description for the City Manager of Watauga, Tennessee.
City Manager of Irving: Classification Specification
Job Description (Created: 2001-08-16; Reviewed: 2021-04-23 )

Job description for City Manager for the City of Irving.
City Manager Orientation
General (Created: 2011-05-20; Reviewed: 2021-07-08 )

MTAS services and other information explained to a new city manager.
City Manager Salary for Selected Tennessee Cities
Survey (Created: 2020-05-27; Reviewed: 2021-07-07 )

A survey of thirteen Tennessee cities to gather information on city manager salary, existence of contract or agreement, severance package, and tenure of current manager.
City Manager Salary, Employment Agreements, Retirement, Leave Benefits and Employee Paid Paternity Leave Survey
Survey (Created: 2021-11-10; Reviewed: 2022-03-03 )

The MTAS Research and Information Center requested information from Tennessee municipalities that have a city manager government. The survey included questions on salary, employment agreements, severance packages, retirement benefits and leave provided for the city manager. The survey also gathered information on whether the selected municipalities offer paid parental leave as a benefit to all employees.
City Manager's Authority Over Personnel Administration
Legal Opinion (Created: 1996-10-04; Reviewed: 2021-04-26 )

MTAS was asked whether the city council has the authority to require the city manager to 'hire back' a fireman who resigned, ostensibly on the grounds that the city manager refused to permit him to 'moonlight' as a building inspector for a city when he was already moonlighting as a building inspector for the county.
City Manager/Administrator Salary and Benefits in Selected Cities
Survey (Created: 2020-10-21; Reviewed: 2021-05-04 )

Nine Tennessee cities responded to a request for information regarding salary and compensation for their City Manager/City Administrator roles. Data includes base salary, existence of contract or agreement, bonuses, insurance, leave and take home car/car allowance.
City Managers with Employment Contracts
Survey (Created: 2007-07-11; Reviewed: 2021-06-25 )

Fifty cities were asked whether they have employment contracts with their city managers.
City Mechanic Certification Incentives
Survey (Created: 2017-12-05; Reviewed: 2020-06-02 )

MTAS surveyed ten cities to find out if they offer incentive pay to city mechanics for obtaining certification to inspect, maintain and repair emergency vehicles.
City Obtains a Certificate of Public Purpose and Necessity Before Borrowing Funds to Buy Land for an Industrial Park
Legal Opinion (Created: 2000-04-11; Reviewed: 2021-04-22 )

MTAS was asked whether a city must obtain a certificate of public purpose and necessity before borrowing funds to buy land for an industrial park.
City of Belle Meade Ordinance Prohibiting Left-Hand Turns from Jackson Boulevard onto Harding Road
Ordinance (Created: 2020-03-31; Reviewed: 2020-05-14 )

The City of Belle Meade determined that hazardous conditions exist which required a change to the traffic pattern at the intersection of Jackson Boulevard and Harding Road.
City of Chattanooga Accountant Job Descriptions
Job Description (Created: 2021-08-03; Reviewed: 2022-04-01 )

The City of Chattanooga, Tennessee provided MTAS with job descriptions for their Accountant 1, 2 and 3 roles.
City of Chattanooga Division of Codes & Inspection
Report/Study (Created: 2002-01-18; Reviewed: 2021-04-29 )

MTAS was asked to do an inspection and codes division organizational study.
City of Chattanooga Fleet Study
Report/Study (Created: 2002-06-01; Reviewed: 2020-06-02 )

MTAS was asked to conduct a study of the city's fleet operations.
City of Chattanooga Procurement Instruction Manual
General (Created: 2014-03-13; Reviewed: 2020-04-22 )

This manual establishes the policies and procedures required to be followed by the City of Chattanooga's (City) departments and agencies in fulfilling procurement and related logistical responsibilities within the delegated limits when performing procurement functions. The manual as written, serves as a user's guide for City employees and officials when implementing authorized purchasing procedures.
City of Cleveland Finance Department Banking Service Proposal
RFP (Created: 2001-02-28; Reviewed: 2021-04-30 )

The initiation of the Request for Proposal (RFP) process is intended to result in the selection of a financial institution that can provide the City of Cleveland with the highest quality and most flexible services for the lowest cost to the public.
City of Elizabethton Municipal Golf Course Study
Report/Study (Created: 2012-12-18; Reviewed: 2021-04-12 )

This study includes golf data from all Tennessee municipal golf operations, a literature review, and an examination of the organizational structure, operations, and finance of the Elizabethton golf operation.
City of Knoxville Division of Building Permit Review and Inspections Operations Assessment
Report/Study (Created: 2004-08-04; Reviewed: 2021-04-29 )

This assessment review will focus on organization and staffing; adopted codes and appeal boards; licensing and fees; operating and permitting procedures; plan review and inspection services; comparison with other cities and the survey reviews.
City of Manchester Board Evaluation
Form (Created: 2001-08-14; Reviewed: 2021-06-28 )

This evaluation form is designed to help the Board understand the expectations of the city administrator in his relationship to the Board.
City of Manchester City Administrator Evaluation 2001
Form (Created: 2001-08-14; Reviewed: 2021-04-26 )

This evaluation form is designed to determine the effectiveness of the city administrator.
City of Mount Pleasant, Tennessee Strategic Plan 2021
Report/Study (Created: 2022-08-23; Reviewed: 2022-10-14 )

This strategic plan is an update to a prior version facilitated and prepared by MTAS. The updated document demonstrates the success of the strategic planning process and that the city achieved nearly complete implementation of the plan and its initiatives.
City of Niota Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Agreement
General (Created: 2017-08-15; Reviewed: 2021-05-12 )

A contract between city of Niota and the Environmental Management Group to provide personnel to operate and maintain the wastewater plant.
City of Oak Ridge Citizen Satisfaction Survey
Survey (Created: 2000-10-01; Reviewed: 2021-07-16 )

Citizens of Oak Ridge were asked questions about their quality of life and city services.
City of Smithville, Tennessee: A Resolution
General (Created: 2001-10-17; Reviewed: 2021-06-17 )

Requested that MTAS prepare amendments to the current private act charter as it pertains to a city court.
City of South Pittsburg, Tennessee, FY 2003-2004 Budget Narrative
Report/Study (Created: 2003-06-16; Reviewed: 2021-06-21 )

MTAS was asked to prepare a budget narrative for South Pittsburg to facilitate a collaborative decision-making process.
City of Spring Hill Effective Utility System Operation
Report/Study (Created: 2008-10-25; Reviewed: 2021-04-22 )

As utility departments grow and increase the number of customers, operating and capital budgets and service capacities have to be increased in order to provide adequate utility service.
City of Springfield Request for Proposals Contract Management of the Legacy Golf Course
RFP (Created: 2015-11-13; Reviewed: 2021-06-01 )

The City is seeking proposals from all interested firms to provide management services for the daily operations and maintenance of the golf course.
City of Tracy City Court Cost Computations and an Ordinance Establishing City Court Costs
Ordinance (Created: 2012-06-01; Reviewed: 2021-07-27 )

This report outlines a method for calculating municipal court costs using audited data, pay records, and reasonable estimates, plus, an ordinance establishing city court costs, including cash bond forfeiture fee and a city litigation tax.
City of Tusculum Certified Municipal Finance Officer Job Description
Job Description (Created: 2012-05-16; Reviewed: 2021-07-28 )

Job description for the position of Certified Municipal Finance Officer for the City of Tusculum.
City of Winchester Administrative Review
Report/Study (Created: 2010-08-17; Reviewed: 2021-06-09 )

The purpose of this report is to review the administrative structure, adequacy of staff and operating efficiency at department levels and to ensure that the city has the best administrative structure and staffing level to provide effective and efficient services at a reasonable cost for the future.
City Permits for Mass Gathering Events: an MTAS Survey
Survey (Created: 2013-07-31; Reviewed: 2021-06-25 )

Six cities were asked several questions about permits for special events and mass gatherings.
City Planner
Job Description (Created: 2002-09-24; Reviewed: 2021-04-23 )

Job description for the position of City Planner.
City Planner Salary, Contracted Grant Writers, Retirement Plans and Supplemental Bridge Benefits Survey
Survey (Created: 2018-04-27; Reviewed: 2021-04-23 )

A survey of selected cities to gather city planner salary information, whether contracted grant writers are in use, and the offerings of retirement plans including supplemental bridge benefits.
City Planning Assistant Job Description
Job Description (Created: 2020-03-31; Reviewed: 2021-07-26 )

The City of Spring Hill, Tennessee provided MTAS with a job description for their City Planning Assistant. An employee to provide support to the Planning Director with planning activities and the development review process. He or she will also be responsible for administrative functions within the department. The planning assistant will also process and track maintenance and performance bonds and application data.
City Psychologist Usage
Survey (Created: 2016-12-16; Reviewed: 2021-06-15 )

Ten cities were asked about their use of a psychologist in their municipality.
City Recorder
Job Description (Created: 2002-09-24; Reviewed: 2021-06-25 )

Job description for the position of City Recorder.
City Recorder Job Description with CMFO
Job Description (Created: 2017-01-12; Reviewed: 2021-06-25 )

Job description for the position of city recorder that includes a requirement for obtaining the State Certification for Municipal Clerks and Recorders and the Certified Municipal Finance Officer Certification within three years employment.
City Recorder Serving as Vice-Mayor in the Absence of the Mayor
Legal Opinion (Created: 2001-09-14; Reviewed: 2021-07-09 )

MTAS was asked about (1) the calculation of a quorum when the recorder is the vice-mayor; (2) functions of the vice-mayor in the absence of the mayor; (3) when is the mayor "absent"?
City Recorder/CMFO Salary Range in Selected Tennessee Cities
Survey (Created: 2018-08-15; Reviewed: 2021-07-07 )

Seven Tennessee cities with a population of less than 2,000 citizens were surveyed to find out what the salary range is for their City Recorder/CMFO employee.
City Recorder/Finance Director Job Description
Job Description (Created: 2021-04-29; Reviewed: 2021-04-30 )

A job description for Jonesborough, Tennessee for the City Recorder/Finance Director who reports directly to the board of mayor and aldermen.
City Recorder/Finance Director Job Description
Job Description (Created: 2004-11-09; Reviewed: 2021-07-07 )

A job description for a position that combines the duties of City Recorder and Finance Director.
City Recorders Serving as Court Clerks
Legal Opinion (Created: 2004-10-08; Reviewed: 2021-07-09 )

MTAS was asked whether the city recorders can also be the court clerks in two cities.
City Recorders: Elected or Appointed (updated 2017)
Survey (Created: 2008-07-08; Reviewed: 2021-07-07 )

A spreadsheet of elected and appointed Tennessee city recorders arranged by type of municipal charter. (updated 2017)
City Regulation of Commercial Poultry Production Houses
General (Created: 2014-11-18; Reviewed: 2021-04-29 )

MTAS provided information regarding city regulation of chicken houses and the domestic use of poultry and foul. A follow-up letter provides an example of a zoning ordinance that bans poultry production houses within the city limits.
City Required Contractor License: A Survey of Selected Cities in Tennessee
Survey (Created: 2016-09-30; Reviewed: 2021-04-29 )

A survey of ten cities regarding whether they require a contractors' license and their cost.
City Responsibility for Property Line Pin
General (Created: 2004-11-08; Reviewed: 2021-05-14 )

MTAS was asked about a situation related to a property-line 'pin' that was covered in a recent street paving.
City School District Admits Children Who Live Outside the City and Charges Tuition
Legal Opinion (Created: 1996-04-08; Reviewed: 2021-04-26 )

MTAS was asked whether the City School District may admit children who live outside the city and charge tuition.
City Surveyor Position in Selected Cities
Survey (Created: 2017-04-24; Reviewed: 2021-04-23 )

Selected cities were surveyed regarding whether they have a city surveyor position and compensation for that position.
City Treasurer Duties and Compensation
Legal Opinion (Created: 2000-10-04; Reviewed: 2021-06-17 )

Questions regarding 1) the city treasurer receiving a pay raise during the term in office and 2) combining the offices of city treasurer and purchasing agent.
City Versus State Regulation of the Sale of Beer and Liquor
General (Created: 2018-02-22; Reviewed: 2021-07-15 )

MTAS was asked "what is the distance requirement (from church, school, public gathering place) for the State of Tennessee regarding sale of liquor and sale of beer (on-premise)?" The following information addresses the authority to regulate distance requirements.
City Websites, Agendas, Minutes, and Credit Card Payments
Survey (Created: 2022-02-17; Reviewed: 2022-02-17 )

A survey of one hundred sixteen cities with websites to determine which post their agendas and minutes and which can accommodate credit card payments.
City Wishes to Prohibit Double Wide Mobile Homes
Legal Opinion (Created: 1993-06-21; Reviewed: 2021-07-25 )

MTAS was asked whether a city could write any ordinance that would permit the city to prohibit double wides.
City's Gas System Contributing Revenues for the Repair of the City's Streets
Legal Opinion (Created: 1996-08-21; Reviewed: 2021-04-22 )

MTAS was asked whether the city's gas system can contribute revenues for the repair of the city's streets.
City's Purchase of Automotive Repairs
Legal Opinion (Created: 1999-07-13; Reviewed: 2021-07-02 )

MTAS was asked whether the city's purchase of automotive repairs is a professional service exempt from competitive bidding required by the Municipal Purchasing Law and the city's competitive bidding policies.
City's Share of the State Beer Tax
Legal Opinion (Created: 1997-08-15; Reviewed: 2021-07-15 )

MTAS was asked whether a city can prohibit the sale of beer and if that decision would jeopardize the city's share of the state beer tax.
Civil Service: Some Pros, Cons and Suggestions for Reform
General (Created: 2006-10-05; Reviewed: 2021-05-07 )

The purpose of this paper is to discuss some of the pros and cons related to civil service and to offer suggestions for improvements.
Civilian Ride-Along Programs
General (Created: 2002-03-25; Reviewed: 2021-07-02 )

A civilian should meet certain eligibility requirements to participate in a municipal police department's ride-along program.
Classified and Commercial Driver Licenses Chapter 1340-1-13
General (Created: 2002-04-16; Reviewed: 2021-07-09 )

Commercial driver licenses are not required for drivers operating emergency vehicles.
Classifying Employees in Labor and Management Categories
Legal Opinion (Created: 1991-05-27; Reviewed: 2021-04-23 )

MTAS was asked for assistance in classifying employees in labor and management categories.
Clean Cab Concept SOP Template
Form (Created: 2020-06-01; Reviewed: 2021-07-09 )

The purpose of this form is to provide guidelines for all fire department members to follow which will assist fire department personnel in protecting themselves from potential toxins and carcinogens by minimizing exposure from cross contamination through maintaining a "clean cab" environment.
Cleveland Beautification Survey
Survey (Created: 2011-04-28; Reviewed: 2021-06-01 )

The Tree Board in Cleveland conducted this survey and had 442 responses.
Clinton, Tennessee, Fire Station Location Study
Report/Study (Created: 2012-11-30; Reviewed: 2021-07-12 )

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the city's distribution of fire stations, determine if the locations are adequate, determine if a fire station or stations should be relocated, and determine the optimal location for an additional fire station. The scope of this study included review of distribution requirements in the ISO Fire Suppression Rating Schedule, NFPA requirements, and fire service best practices regarding deployment of resources.
Closed Meetings with City Attorney
Legal Opinion (Created: 2007-03-30; Reviewed: 2021-04-15 )

MTAS was asked whether the city's governing body can meet with its attorney to discuss pending litigation without first holding a regular or special meeting that complies with the notice requirements of the Open Meetings Law.
Code Enforcement Notices and Forms
Form (Created: 2008-07-18; Reviewed: 2021-05-28 )

Notices for the inspection of property, for slum clearance, and for overgrown lots.
Code Enforcement Officers
Legal Opinion (Created: 2005-03-04; Reviewed: 2021-04-20 )

MTAS was asked whether persons who have the authority to issue ordinance citations and summonses are "police officers" within the meaning of the state law governing the appointment and training of police officers.
Code Enforcement on Buildings Partially Within City
Legal Opinion (Created: 1996-09-11; Reviewed: 2021-05-04 )

Where a building is located partially in the city and partially in the county, does the city's building permit and inspection system apply to the entire building?
Code of Ethics Ordinance for Cumberland Gap, Tennessee
Ordinance (Created: 2006-12-08; Reviewed: 2021-06-25 )

MTAS was asked to put the model ethics policy into ordinance format for the Town of Cumberland Gap, Tennessee.
Collection of Costs Related to Solid Waste
Legal Opinion (Created: 2009-03-19; Reviewed: 2021-05-28 )

MTAS was asked whether a private act city could bill cost of solid waste regulation, collection and disposal under provision in TCA 67-5-103(c) that authorizes such costs collected as special assessment to property owner as provided in general law mayor aldermanic charter. That question lead to several other questions regarding the collection of costs related to solid waste regulation, collection and disposal by taxes, user fees, special assessment to property owner, and other charges, as provided by all three general law charters.
Collection of Fines and Costs While Decision is on Appeal
Legal Opinion (Created: 1993-08-02; Reviewed: 2021-06-21 )

MTAS was asked what action the city can take against a pallet manufacturer who is in violation of the fire code.
Collection of Municipal Court Costs
Legal Opinion (Created: 2001-09-20; Reviewed: 2021-07-27 )

MTAS was asked how a municipal court can collect fines.
College Student Voter Registration
Legal Opinion (Created: 2002-02-21; Reviewed: 2021-07-07 )

Analyzes law governing the conditions under which students in colleges in Tennessee can register to vote in cities in the locations of their colleges.
Collegedale Building and Property Maintenance Study: A Guide for Building Construction and Property Maintenance Code Enforcement
Report/Study (Created: 2012-06-01; Reviewed: 2021-04-28 )

This report summarizes the building inspection program and outlines recommendations for enforcement of property maintenance standards, inspections and enforcement procedures, including recommended implementation provisions. This report includes recommended procedures for using the administrative hearing officer program and miscellaneous building and property maintenance code implementation forms.
Columbia, Tennessee, Fire Station Location Study
Report/Study (Created: 2012-04-30; Reviewed: 2021-07-12 )

The study's purpose is to answer three questions: 1. Station 3 is obsolete: Where should Columbia relocate Station 3?; 2. Where should Columbia place its next fire station(s)?; and 3. What are the EMS drive time zones for each fire station?
Combined Annual Vacation, Sick, and Personal Leave Study
Report/Study (Created: 2012-04-02; Reviewed: 2021-06-15 )

This report reviews the history of the present combined leave policy of the city, outlines the present cost of the program and presents alternatives for the city's consideration.
Combining Two Utility Boards
Legal Opinion (Created: 2001-04-02; Reviewed: 2021-04-22 )

MTAS was asked whether or not the City may merge the two utility boards currently in existence.
Commission Form of Government
General (Created: 2006-06-22; Reviewed: 2021-06-17 )

MTAS was asked to address the advantages and disadvantages associated with changing the City to a commission form of government.
Commissioner of Public Works
Job Description (Created: 2009-07-01; Reviewed: 2020-06-02 )

Job description for the position of Commissioner of Public Works in the Town of Greenwich, Connecticut.
Commissioning Fire Investigators
General (Created: 2013-04-16; Reviewed: 2022-05-21 )

MTAS was asked whether a fire department should grant commissioned peace officer status to the department's fire investigators for conducting fire and arson investigations.
Committed Fund Balance Ordinance
Ordinance (Created: 2012-06-15; Reviewed: 2023-01-24 )

A model ordinance based on GASB 54 requirements that creates a committed fund balance in order to ensure fund availability for the purchase of a specific item.
Communication Director/Public Information Officer in Selected Tennessee Cities
Survey (Created: 2019-11-01; Reviewed: 2021-12-08 )

A survey of selected cities were surveyed to find out whether the city employs a communication director/public information officer and how that position fits into the overall structure of the city.
Communications Director (Gallatin, TN)
Job Description (Created: 2019-08-23; Reviewed: 2021-04-23 )

A sample job description provided by the City of Gallatin for the Director for Administration & Communications. The purpose of the position is to captivate and engage current and new audiences with the city.
Communications Equipment on Publicly Owned Facilities
Survey (Created: 2013-11-30; Reviewed: 2021-04-15 )

Fifteen cities were asked about leasing space on public facilities, such as water towers, to for-profit companies.
Community Center Lease Agreement
Form (Created: 2009-01-14; Reviewed: 2021-07-25 )

MTAS was asked to prepare a lease agreement for the rental of the Town Community Center.
Community Development Director
Job Description (Created: 2002-09-24; Reviewed: 2021-07-08 )

Job description for the position of Community Development Director.
Community Improvements Coordinator
Job Description (Created: 2002-09-24; Reviewed: 2021-07-08 )

Job description for the position of Community Improvements Coordinator.
Community Pilot Resiliency Program
Resolution (Created: 2021-12-01; Reviewed: 2022-01-31 )

A resolution of Woodland Mills, Tennessee establishing a Community Resiliency Pilot Program (CPRP) with the University of Tennessee Municipal Technical Advisory Service (MTAS) and the Tennessee Renewable Energy and Economic Development Council (TREEDC).
Community Planner II
Job Description (Created: 2002-09-24; Reviewed: 2021-07-08 )

Job description for the position of Community Planner II.
Comparison of Licenses and Permits for Transient Vendors and Others
General (Created: 2002-04-25; Reviewed: 2021-06-22 )

A comparison of the business licenses and permits required for transient vendors, peddlers, solicitors, charitable solicitors, and street barkers.
Compensation and Health Insurance for City Boards and Commissions
Legal Opinion (Created: 2009-11-10; Reviewed: 2021-04-23 )

MTAS analyzed questions relating to compensation for various officials and for the provision of (and elimination of) health insurance to the city's officers and employees.
Compensation of Police Officers
Legal Opinion (Created: 1997-10-29; Reviewed: 2021-05-07 )

MTAS was asked whether the ten minutes during which police officers attend mandatory roll-call can be calculated for the purposes of overtime compensation and what, if any, is the rate of compensation due non-exempt police officers for work between 160 and 171 hours when their work period is 28 days, and their regular schedule during that work period is 160 hours.
Compensation of the City Recorder
Legal Opinion (Created: 2005-10-18; Reviewed: 2021-06-25 )

MTAS was asked whether the city recorder is entitled under Tennessee Law to compensation based on the collection of property taxes.
Compensation Policy Required by Law
General (Created: 2012-04-02; Reviewed: 2021-04-23 )

MTAS was asked whether cities are required by law to have a compensation policy.
Compensation/Classification Consulting Service Providers
General (Created: 2021-03-05; Reviewed: 2021-05-07 )

A list of consulting companies who can do compensation studies.
Compensatory Time for FLSA-Exempt Employees
Survey (Created: 2016-12-16; Reviewed: 2021-04-23 )

Six cities responded to an MTAS survey on compensatory time for FLSA-exempt employees, including the rate, the circumstances, pay out at separation from employment, cap on number of hours that can be accrued, and time frame in which compensatory time must be used.
Competitive Bid Thresholds in Selected Cities and Towns in Tennessee
Survey (Created: 2022-12-07; Reviewed: 2022-12-07 )

A number of selected municipalities in east and middle Tennessee were surveyed regarding their dollar amount threshold for competitive bids.
Compliance/Labor Relations Specialist
Job Description (Created: 2006-05-19; Reviewed: 2021-05-07 )

Job description for the position of Compliance/Labor Relations Specialist.
Composition and Authority of the City Beer Board
Legal Opinion (Created: 1992-03-11; Reviewed: 2021-07-15 )

MTAS was asked whether the composition of the board can be changed and whether the board has the authority to deny a beer permit to an applicant that meets the requirements set out in the beer ordinance
Comprehensive Fire Management Study Survey Form
Form (Created: 2011-09-06; Reviewed: 2021-07-12 )

A checklist for an MTAS Comprehensive Management Review (CMR) of fire organizations.
Computer-aided Dispatch Software Survey
Survey (Created: 2020-11-16; Reviewed: 2021-07-12 )

A compilation of information from ten counties in Tennessee and the computer-aided dispatch software used in their 911 departments.
Condemnation of Property with Deed Restrictions or Covenants
Legal Opinion (Created: 2017-03-01; Reviewed: 2021-04-15 )

MTAS was asked if the city condemns property that has deed restrictions or covenants requiring that the property only be used for residential development, if such restrictions are lifted or nullified by the condemnation.
Conditions of Abandoning a Street
General (Created: 2011-02-15; Reviewed: 2020-04-22 )

MTAS was asked whether a city can abandon a street and what happens when a street is abandoned by a city.
Conditions of the Deed Abandoning the Street
Legal Opinion (Created: 1993-10-29; Reviewed: 2020-04-22 )

MTAS was asked whether the city can attach conditions to the abandonment of the street.
Conditions Under Which the City Can Give Local Preference on Bids
Legal Opinion (Created: 2004-05-05; Reviewed: 2021-07-29 )

MTAS was asked whether it is lawful for the city to base the award of competitive bids on the preference for local contractors or providers of goods and services.
Conducted Energy Weapon (M26 Taser) Policy
General (Created: 2003-06-26; Reviewed: 2021-06-29 )

MTAS was asked to supply policies and procedures for police use of tasers.
Confidentiality of Certain Internal Investigative Notes/Reports
Legal Opinion (Created: 1997-08-20; Reviewed: 2021-04-22 )

MTAS researched the issue of whether the records of an internal investigation (non-criminal at this point) by the police department of one its employees are subject to public disclosure pursuant to the Tennessee Public Records Act ("TPRA"), subject to a statutory exception, or are otherwise privileged.
Conflict of Interest Provision in City Charter
Legal Opinion (Created: 2009-11-30; Reviewed: 2021-06-21 )

MTAS was asked whether the city charter could have a conflict of interest provision stronger than Tennessee's two conflicts of interest laws.
Conservation Easements on Recreational Property Owned by the City
Legal Opinion (Created: 2011-05-18; Reviewed: 2021-05-27 )

MTAS was asked whether the provisions of T.C.A. apply to the execution of conservation easements on city-owned property.
Considerations for Any City Thinking About Developing a New Sewer System
(Created: 2008-07-24; Reviewed: 2021-06-23 )

Ask lots of questions and get answers you can live with before building a centralized sewer system.
Consolidation of City and County Governments: A Look at the History and Outcome-Based Research of These Efforts
General (Created: 2019-08-21; Reviewed: 2021-08-20 )

This research is available in the two attached documents on the history of consolidation and the pros and cons of consolidation.
Constitutionality of Changes to Home Rule City Charters
Legal Opinion (Created: 2001-01-04; Reviewed: 2021-06-18 )

MTAS was asked whether the changes to a City's home rule city charter, which are the product of a referendum by initiative of the voters, legal.
Construction and Garage Sales on Sundays
Legal Opinion (Created: 2006-02-01; Reviewed: 2021-07-25 )

MTAS was asked whether a city could prohibit or limit the hours of construction and of garage sales on Sunday.
Construction and Sale/Leaseback of Public Works Project by Municipality
Legal Opinion (Created: 1999-03-10; Reviewed: 2020-04-22 )

MTAS was asked whether the proposed school construction is a "public works project" and whether the municipality has ample authority to buy real property for a public works project and then lease such property to another governmental entity.
Construction Inspector
Job Description (Created: 2007-04-26; Reviewed: 2021-05-26 )

Job descriptions for the position of construction inspector.
Construction Without a Building Permit
Legal Opinion (Created: 2008-02-11; Reviewed: 2021-04-20 )

MTAS was asked whether a certain building within the city was legally constructed, and if the answer was no, what legal remedies were available to the city.
Continuation of a Nonconforming Commercial Use in a Residential Zoning District
General (Created: 2014-11-14; Reviewed: 2021-04-28 )

A commercial building was constructed prior to the advent of zoning in the town; the proposed commercial use is a used car lot, but the present zoning is R-1.
Contract Between City and Alderman
Legal Opinion (Created: 2009-02-06; Reviewed: 2021-06-21 )

MTAS was asked about the application of Tennessee's Conflicts of Interest Law and the doctrine of Common Law Conflicts to an Alderman's contract with the City.
Contract for Consolidated Law Enforcement
General (Created: 2004-11-02; Reviewed: 2021-06-29 )

MTAS was asked to review a police services contract with the county sheriff's office and created a new one.
Contract for the County to Maintain the City's Streets in Exchange for Payment
Legal Opinion (Created: 1990-10-12; Reviewed: 2020-04-22 )

MTAS was asked whether the county and the city have the legal right to enter into the contract for the former to maintain the latter's streets in exchange for payment for such maintenance.
Contract Law
Legal Opinion (Created: 1995-06-14; Reviewed: 2021-07-25 )

MTAS was asked whether the board of mayor and aldermen can compel the mayor to sign a certain "contract."
Contract on the Part of the Utility District to Install Sewer Service
Legal Opinion (Created: 1997-10-30; Reviewed: 2021-04-22 )

MTAS was asked whether a letter from a certain engineering firm constitutes a contract on the part of the utility district to install sewer service.
Contract to Contribute to the National Guard Armory
Legal Opinion (Created: 2004-02-20; Reviewed: 2021-04-22 )

MTAS was asked whether the city was liable on a contract to contribute to the national guard armory.
Contract with Utility District
Legal Opinion (Created: 2004-05-21; Reviewed: 2021-04-22 )

MTAS was asked about a proposed contract between the City (and other county municipalities) and the County Municipal Water District.
Contracted Towing Company Rates in Tennessee Cities
Survey (Created: 2019-11-01; Reviewed: 2021-05-12 )

Eight Tennessee cities were surveyed to find out if the police departments contract towing companies to haul away motor vehicles following traffic accidents.
Contraction of City Limits
Legal Opinion (Created: 2022-08-05; Reviewed: 2022-10-14 )

MTAS Legal Consultant Elisha Hodge responded to a request for information regarding the contraction or deannexation of property within a Tennessee town's geographical boundaries.
Contraction/Deannexation of Property by Ordinance
General (Created: 2014-02-26; Reviewed: 2021-05-05 )

MTAS was asked whether there can be spot deannexation of a parcel of land while leaving the other surrounding parcels inside the Town limits.
Contractors Licensing Law and Its Application (Part 1)
Legal Opinion (Created: 1992-11-13; Reviewed: 2021-05-28 )

MTAS was asked whether the city building inspector should issue a building permit for the construction of a certain restaurant in the city. This opinion is followed up by an additional opinion issued by the author on November 18, 1992 in response to additional questions from the client.
Contractors Licensing Law and Its Application (Part 2)
Legal Opinion (Created: 1992-11-18; Reviewed: 2021-05-28 )

MTAS was asked to clarify the contractors licensing law. This opinion was issued as a follow up to the opinion issued on November 13, 1992 in response to additional questions on the topic from the client.
Contractors Sue the City for Breach of Contract and Quit Work on the Plant
Legal Opinion (Created: 1993-11-16; Reviewed: 2020-04-22 )

The city is faced with a lawsuit, a deadline from the State Department of Environment and Conservation as to when it must be in conformity with state environmental laws, and an unfinished sewer treatment plant.
Contractual Agreement for Wastewater Testing
Form (Created: 2006-07-16; Reviewed: 2021-05-12 )

MTAS was asked to write a contract to perform wastewater testing.
Contradictory Provisions of City Charter Related to Sidewalks
General (Created: 2005-05-20; Reviewed: 2020-04-22 )

MTAS was asked whether the owner or the city is required to construct sidewalks.
Convenience Petition
General (Created: 2005-07-12; Reviewed: 2021-04-22 )

A petition that the County Mayor find and declare that the public convenience and necessity require that the exclusive franchise of Claiborne Utility District, Claiborne County, Tennessee to provide wastewater service within the City of Harrogate 'City's' boundaries be modified.
Convention Center Management Agreement Among the Convention Center Corporation and John Q. Hammons Hotels, Inc.
General (Created: 2001-08-17; Reviewed: 2021-07-25 )

Contract regarding convention center management.
Converting Two Way Streets to One Way Streets
General (Created: 2007-03-19; Reviewed: 2020-04-22 )

MTAS was asked to evaluate city streets for conversion from two way to one way and to provide guidance on traffic flow, signage, and parking.
Corridor Annexation
General (Created: 2016-10-06; Reviewed: 2021-07-15 )

MTAS was asked about a possible annexation of a right-of-way connecting the corporate limits to a larger piece of property outside the city, with no other property to be annexed along the right-of-way.
Cost of Maintaining Fire Hydrants
General (Created: 2013-02-26; Reviewed: 2021-07-12 )

MTAS was asked about the annual cost of maintaining fire hydrants.
Cost of Training Contracts
Legal Opinion (Created: 2002-01-04; Reviewed: 2021-07-25 )

Is the contract entered into by a city and a police officer for the reimbursement of cost of training to city in event officer quits before expiration of two-year term enforceable against the officer?
Cost Recovery of Hazardous Materials Clean-Up and Response
General (Created: 2002-02-05; Reviewed: 2021-07-12 )

MTAS was asked to provide information on the cost recovery involving hazardous materials spills.
Costs of Multiple Charges
General (Created: 2003-05-12; Reviewed: 2021-07-27 )

MTAS was asked whether an offender charged with two different charges on the same ticket is charged with two court costs or just one.
Councilmember Acting as City Judge, in Absence of Judge
Legal Opinion (Created: 2005-04-05; Reviewed: 2021-07-27 )

City council member who acted as special judge when city judge was unavailable in past, cannot continue to act as special judge after effective date of Municipal Court Reform Act, which has a section prohibiting city officials or employees from holding office as judge.
Councilmember Running for Mayor
General (Created: 2003-02-12; Reviewed: 2021-06-25 )

MTAS was asked whether a sitting councilmember can run for the office of Mayor without resigning his current council seat.
Counting Meal Time for Firefighters Towards Overtime Pay
Legal Opinion (Created: 2007-06-01; Reviewed: 2021-06-15 )

MTAS was asked about meal periods for firefighters who work shifts of less than 24 hours.
Counting of Board Votes
General (Created: 2004-08-10; Reviewed: 2021-06-25 )

MTAS was asked how a board vote of two for, one abstention, and one passing is to be recorded.
County Assessor Service Fee Survey
Survey (Created: 2016-07-31; Reviewed: 2021-07-21 )

Six cities responded to an MTAS survey about agreements with the county regarding the sharing of the costs of reappraisal of property within the city limits.
County Disadvantaged Business Enterprise Utilization Guidelines
Legal Opinion (Created: 2001-06-21; Reviewed: 2021-06-18 )

MTAS was asked to evaluate the County Disadvantaged Business Enterprise Utilization Guidelines.
County Funding of Roads
General (Created: 2016-06-29; Reviewed: 2021-06-21 )

MTAS was asked three questions: (1) Whether a county highway department is restricted in spending its gas tax revenues to only outside municipalities; (2) Whether a county can legally earmark a portion of county property taxes collected within a municipality to roads outside the municipality; and (3) Whether a county is required to have a public hearing before final passage of the budget.
County Gift of Real Property to a City
General (Created: 2005-07-27; Reviewed: 2021-06-21 )

MTAS was asked whether the county could give a parcel of land to the city.
County Mayor Serving on the Industrial Development Board
Legal Opinion (Created: 2010-11-11; Reviewed: 2021-06-18 )

MTAS was asked whether the county mayor may serve on the IDB.
County Solid Waste Disposal Fees
Legal Opinion (Created: 1993-08-31; Reviewed: 2021-04-26 )

MTAS was asked whether the citizens of the city are still subject to a solid waste disposal fee charged by the county, even if a private disposal service is used.
County Taxing Rental Property Owned by the Utility District
Legal Opinion (Created: 1996-01-26; Reviewed: 2021-07-20 )

MTAS was asked whether the county can tax rental property owned by the utility district.
County to City Dispatch Charges Survey
Survey (Created: 2020-08-07; Reviewed: 2021-07-12 )

MTAS surveyed eighteen cities whose E-911 communications are handled by the county they are located in. Representatives of each city were asked about service cost and the formula used to determine the charge for each city.
County Zoning Ordinances and Expansion of Pre-existing Non-conforming Uses to Adjacent Land
Legal Opinion (Created: 2001-08-16; Reviewed: 2021-04-28 )

MTAS was asked whether a county zoning ordinance can permit the expansion of pre-existing non-conforming uses to adjacent land
Court Costs Taxed
Legal Opinion (Created: 2002-01-25; Reviewed: 2021-07-27 )

MTAS was asked if a general sessions court judge can tax costs against the city when officers fail to properly execute warrants.
Court Liason Programs
General (Created: 2002-01-10; Reviewed: 2021-06-29 )

The Court Liaison Program is a cooperative effort of the local police department, the District Attorney General's office and the General Sessions Court Judge to reduce police overtime costs.
COVID-19 (Coronavirus) Resources for Local Government in Tennessee
General (Created: 2020-03-04; Reviewed: 2021-05-14 )

A list of resources for local governments in Tennessee related to the COVID-19 Coronavirus. This list will be updated regularly as resources become available. Note: Due to the variety and volume of information on this page, new resources that are more recently added to this page are indicated with RED type.


COVID-19 and Municipal Governments: A Hot Topic Q & A for Tennessee Municipalities
General (Created: 2020-03-16; Reviewed: 2021-07-12 )

The first case in the United States of 2019-nCoV, the 2019 novel coronavirus, now classified as COVID-19, was diagnosed on January 20, 2020, in Snohomish County, Washington. Since then, more people have been diagnosed with COVID-19, and cities are struggling to find information of how to respond to the spread of the virus and how the virus will affect the city’s ability to continue to provide municipal services. This MTAS Hot Topic provides guidance for cities on these issues. (Updated 3/23/2020)
Creating an Industrial Board
Resolution (Created: 2005-01-31; Reviewed: 2021-06-18 )

Includes a resolution, charter, and by laws for an industrial board.
Creation of An Additional Municipal Court Judge
Legal Opinion (Created: 2006-02-27; Reviewed: 2021-07-27 )

MTAS was asked whether an amendment to the city's charter will be required if the city wishes to appoint another city judge with the jurisdiction to hear only municipal ordinance violation cases.
Creation of Metropolitan Government
General (Created: 2004-08-18; Reviewed: 2021-07-16 )

MTAS was asked if the Town of Woodbury could stop a proposed effort to implement metropolitan government in Cannon County, Tennessee.
Creation of Special Relationships between a Citizen and Police Officers
Legal Opinion (Created: 2012-07-05; Reviewed: 2021-05-12 )

MTAS was asked to analyze the question of what is required for a "special relationship" to be established between a citizen and police officers, in the context of the question of whether a police department's agreement to do a neighborhood drive-through check of a homeowner's property in a neighborhood in which recent crime has occurred creates a "special relationship."
Credit Cards Used to Pay Taxes and Other Fees
Survey (Created: 2018-05-15; Reviewed: 2021-04-22 )

Several Tennessee cities were contacted to find out if they allow citizens to pay taxes or fees with a credit card.
Criminal Background Check Authorization
Form (Created: 2003-03-14; Reviewed: 2021-06-15 )

MTAS was asked to develop a criminal background check employment application supplement.
Critical Need for Volunteer Incentive Programs
General (Created: 2005-08-23; Reviewed: 2021-05-21 )

Volunteer incentive programs must be developed by each fire department to insure that the drop out rate is reduced to the lowest level possible.
Current Topics Affecting Municipal Governments: Tennessee Sexual Offender and Violent Sexual Offender Registration, Verification, and Tracking Act of 2004
General (Created: 2004-08-09; Reviewed: 2021-06-25 )

A powerpoint presentation; this is not a full overview of the entire registry issue, only about the payments and registration of offenders and limitations on spending the proceeds.
Customer Service Supervisor
Job Description (Created: 2001-08-16; Reviewed: 2021-04-23 )

Job description for the position of customer service supervisor for utilities and public works for the City of Smyrna.
Customer Service Supervisor
Job Description (Created: 2002-09-26; Reviewed: 2021-07-09 )

Job description for the position of Customer Service Supervisor for Utilities and Public Works.
Customer Service Technician Job Description
Job Description (Created: 2009-10-01; Reviewed: 2021-07-22 )

A job description for the position of Customer Service Technician