The Tennessee Board of Examiners for Land Surveyors voted Nov. 22 to open an administrative complaint and issue a letter of warning to renewal applicant Ronnie Joiner after board members reviewed disciplinary action recorded in Florida.

Board members said they were concerned by the out‑of‑state disciplinary history presented in Joiner’s renewal materials. Board member (Speaker 3) described the misconduct in Florida as "pretty egregious" and said the board should at least place a letter in the file to make Joiner aware the Tennessee board was monitoring the matter. Staff noted the Florida action included a $3,500 fine and continuing‑education requirements and that Joiner is currently licensed and off probation in Florida.

The action was procedural rather than punitive: legal staff told the board that a letter of warning and an administrative complaint could be opened without the letter being considered formal disciplinary action. Staff recommended opening a complaint record and issuing a letter so the history is documented and may be considered if future complaints arise. The board voted on a motion to authorize the complaint and letter of warning; the motion was moved, seconded and approved by voice vote.

The board did not revoke or refuse renewal at the meeting. Chair (unnamed) and counsel described the step as a monitored administrative action: "Both would go in the file, but both are not considered disciplinary action," counsel said during the discussion. Staff said the complaint file would be opened and the warning letter sent in conjunction with that complaint number.

Next steps: staff will open the administrative complaint record, issue the warning letter, and maintain the file for future review if additional complaints or evidence arise. The board’s action does not preclude later formal disciplinary proceedings if new facts develop.