This solid waste study includes an ordinance establishing a solid waste vehicle and equipment replacement program.

MTAS asked nine cities about the salaries paid for operators of specific collection equipment.

MTAS was asked to advise what the state statutes said regarding regional boards and authorities and the city's relationship with these entities.

Amid a surge of interest in recently-passed local government legislation to require a prescription for the purchase of ephedrine and pseudoephedrine products, the Tennessee Attorney General has opined that such local regulation is in violation of Tennessee law.

In a conversation with Dr. Joe Holley, medical director for the Tennessee Department of EMS, Dr. Holley advised that if full universal precautions and PPE are used (exam gloves, gown, N95 mask, and face protection from splash or droplets), and the patient is positive for COVID-19, the universal precautions should be sufficient to protect the wearer, and the patient contact in full PPE would not classify as an exposure to COVID-19/coronavirus. Proper disposal of the used PPE and decon of any equipment used, and the ambulance if the patient is transported, is required.

MTAS was asked to evaluate and make recommendations for improving efficiency and cost-effectiveness for the City of Shelbyville's residential solid waste collection, and implementing a refuse collection/disposal fee.

MTAS Fire Management Consultant Steven Cross created a plan for a volunteer firefighter financial incentive program.

MTAS was asked about general organization, typical functions, and recommended staffing levels for municipal public works departments.

The attached report outlines the specific results and findings of the assessment measures conducted for the position of fire lieutenant for the Fairview (Tenn) Fire Department. 

Rutherford is located in northern Gibson County, Tennessee. The population was 1,163 in 2023. Rutherford provides water and sewer service with a water treatment plant and a wastewater lagoon. The utility is staffed by municipal staff and contract operators.

Rutherford received an Administrative Order from the Water and Wastewater Financing Board dated April 12, 2023. The Board was reformed on July 1, 2023, into the Tennessee Board of Utility Regulation. Rutherford has been referred to the Board for financial distress since the fiscal year 2021 audit. The order from the Board required that Rutherford work with a third party to verify its rates are set in a manner to remedy its financial distress. (A copy of the order is Attachment A.) Rutherford signed a letter of agreement with MTAS to perform a rate study and assist the town with the other requirements of the order.