(NASHVILLE) — State Representative Matthew Hill (R-Jonesborough), Representative Timothy Hill (R-Blountville), and State Representative Micah Van Huss (R-Johnson City) today encouraged leaders at Northeast State Community College to consider alternative plans to the idea of facilities outsourcing which has reportedly been discussed and is under consideration by the school.
According to a local media report, Northeast State President James King recently met with facilities staffers and informed them that Jones Lang LaSalle (JLL) will be submitting a proposal in the coming months to manage current facilities services.
Last year, JLL entered into a contract with the state to provide an option for outsourcing janitorial and maintenance services to state agencies and schools. The investment management company is now expected to focus their efforts on Tennessee’s 13 community colleges that are not currently outsourcing their services.
The Northeast Tennessee Legislative Delegation has been strong advocates for supporting those whose jobs may be jeopardized by outsourcing. They have also called upon Tennessee’s colleges and universities to make fiscally responsible decisions that are in the best interests of educators, students, and employees.
“I believe institutions like Northeast State must make responsible decisions and consider that their bottom line should not negatively impact these important groups — especially our hardworking families who depend on their current jobs to provide for their loved ones,” said State Representative Matthew Hill. “I would ask that officials consider all possible outcomes related to outsourcing their services before moving forward with any new facilities services plans.”
“Outsourcing of jobs may benefit the bottom line on paper, but I would urge Northeast State to also factor in the overall impact to the college, its employees, and our community as a whole,” said Representative Van Huss. “Cheaper does not necessarily mean better.”
“It is imperative that our colleges and universities closely examine their budgets before considering outsourcing as a way to address shortfalls and save money,” said Representative Timothy Hill. “I am hopeful that the leaders of our institutions of higher learning are mindful that any outsourcing proposal has the potential to create unnecessary financial burdens on the citizens of our community.”