The Sullivan County Commission placed on first reading a school-budget reallocation Nov. 20 after extended discussion about lawn-care contracting, costs and procurement procedures.

Commissioner Jones introduced the measure, and Director of Schools Bill Carter explained that savings from unfilled maintenance positions had been redirected to give raises, reassignment and modest stipends to 17 employees, and to pay for extended grounds services. Carter said the package includes 10 additional scheduled mowings (cost cited in the packet as $162,400), expanded weed-control work ($76,800) and $58,800 to cover additional areas inside fenced athletic complexes, plus smaller line items for athletic-related needs. He said those shifts would improve campus curb appeal and reduce liability from informal volunteer mowing.

Several commissioners questioned contracting. Commissioners noted the existing three‑year contract for grounds at 16 schools totals $324,800 per year and has two years remaining. One commissioner said the prior bidding round had a nearly $70,000 difference between bids and urged staff to explain vendor selection practices before committing additional funds. Others argued the scale and safety concerns of district athletic and campus maintenance justify professional contracts rather than volunteer labor.

The sponsor agreed to move the item to first reading for further review and to bring additional procurement details and legal input to a work session.

Next steps: staff will provide more complete cost breakdowns, procurement documentation and options for competitive bidding when the item returns for committee review.