Mark A. Skidmore

The committee held an election for the positions of Chair and Vice Chair. The primary action item involved a discussion on the Committee Work Plan, specifically the development of a draft Resource Guide and the integration of an interactive map of the lake. Verbal updates were provided regarding recent public outreach efforts, including attendance at a USACE meeting, discussions on ranger policy consistency, potential funding for cleanup projects, and opportunities for economic development in park areas managed by the USACE.

The committee discussed the status of the Committee Work Plan, including progress on the resource guide and upcoming activities for National Safe Boating Week, with a focus on seeking grant funding and potential partnerships with local fire and watershed organizations. Other discussions covered a recent clean-up event, the potential appointment of a new committee member, concerns regarding maintenance and debris at a memorial area near the Sanders Ferry Greenway, and an overview of debris removal operations at Lake Cumberland, Kentucky, to evaluate potential equipment opportunities for Old Hickory Lake.

The committee convened to deliberate on the fiscal year 2026-2027 budget. Discussions centered on the impact of various revenue and expenditure adjustments, including updates to sales and property tax projections, cost of living adjustments (COLA) for employees, and the implementation of a pay study. The committee also addressed police department vacancies, savings from professional services, and potential impacts on state street aid funding due to federal gasoline tax policies.

The board meeting included a proclamation honoring Todd Burnham for his long-term service on the Golf Course Commission, followed by a report on legislative engagement and tracked bills from the state general assembly. The council also held a presentation regarding pay structure, specifically detailing processes for cost of living adjustments, merit increases, and employee reclassifications.

The committee discussed several key ordinances and resolutions, including the authorization for historic signage at the Bradford Berry House and a new partnership with the Bradford Berry Preservation Society for the maintenance of the site. Other topics included the application for a public safety grant for equipment and training, a restructuring of police department positions, and an amendment to personnel policies to formalize 10.5-hour shifts. Additionally, the committee received a presentation on a comprehensive pay study update conducted by an external consultant to ensure competitive compensation aligned with current market benchmarks.