July 18, 2022 at 4:30 PM - Johnson City Board of Education Special Meeting

Discussion:  In addition, in attendance: JC City: Mayor Joe Wise, Vice-Mayor Todd Fowler, Commissioner Jenny Brock, Commissioner John Hunter, Commissioner Aaron Murphy, City Manager Cathy Ball, Assistant City Manager Randy Trivette and Director of Facilities Management Brian Ross. JCS Central Office: Dr. Steve Barnett, Dr. Robbie Anderson, Todd Barnett, Collin Brooks, Joe Barnes, Lee Patterson, Dr. Pickering, Melony Surrett, Dr. David Timbs, Leia Valley, Dr. Roger Walk, Dr. Greg Wallace and Dr. Josh Carter.

Mrs. Kathy Hall called the meeting and welcomed those in attendance.
The purpose of the meeting was to discuss the Facilities Master Plans and for the BOE to vote on the 6 Science Labs.

Discussion:  Mrs. Kathy Hall noted that the Facilitates Master Plan is needed for the Science Hill Campus and the scope of work.  There are both potential opportunities and issues to consider in regards to safety and traffic.  Dr. Steve Barnett also agreed with Mrs. Kathy Hall, an outside team with expertise, is needed for the study and function of the campus.
Commissioner, Jenny Brock and City Manager, Cathy Ball noted that a growth management study is beneficial for both the City and the Board of Education.  Mrs. Kathy Hall also commented that the study would help utilize the space of the campus the most efficiently. 
Dr. Ginger commented that public access to school grounds are a safety concern.   
Mr. Randy Trivette also commented that Freedom Hall is currently under the City Master Plan. The Commission could choose to move forward and have Conference Rooms in Freedom Hall. Mayor, Joe Wise noted that Freedom Hall is not on a school campus, it is adjacent to a school campus. The advanced study could suggest a restriction of traffic flow around Liberty Bell and Science Hill. Furthermore, traffic flow could also be restricted in November for Early Voting. Mayor, Joe Wise also commented that the size of Science Hill’s campus needs to be defined. For example, the skate park is on the outer perimeter.
Dr. Steve Barnett commented that a person would be needed to monitor the gate and access to the Science Hill campus.  Mr. Herb Greenlee also noted that in 1980, he was a part of the campus security that monitored the outer perimeter. It’s also important to have someone that has a connection with students. Ms. Michelle Treece commented that the buildings are secure, but installing sensors on the windows and doors would be added security.
Dr. Steve Barnett commented that the capacity and space needs are a critical part of the study.
Dr. Greg Wallace commented that staying consistent is the key to policies and procedures. Moving forward, with the assessment from experts, it will also be essential to consider what is practical based on our resources.
Mr. Randy Trivette noted that the RFQ will need to include several experts, essentially a team. The study could cost around $150,000 with an additional $300,000 on projects.