Expo Center reports rising expenses; commission debates mid‑year pay reclassification and naming‑rights terms

Wilson County Expo Center staff presented an annual report showing rising maintenance and repair expenses tied to HVAC and lighting, recent investments in LED screens and sound upgrades, and continued efforts to stabilize event bookings. Management said the center recorded several successful events (including Pick Tennessee) but had an end‑of‑year negative driven by repair and salary expense increases.

Staff proposed reclassifying an administrative assistant, Samantha, from grade 5 to grade 8 (a proposed hourly change from $21.19 to $26.82, moving annual compensation from about $44,000 to roughly $55,000) to reflect increased duties and additional responsibilities performed. Commissioners debated timing: several argued reclassification should be handled during the regular budget process to avoid creating a recurring mid‑year payroll obligation, while others praised the employee's performance and urged a budgetary solution.

The committee also discussed naming‑rights arrangements with Farm Bureau, reviewing the original RFP history and the five‑year agreement that began at approximately $45,000/year with escalators. Staff described concerns about the number of days Farm Bureau used under the contract and suggested the county could renegotiate or decline renewal if the committee chooses.

A motion to accept the Expo Center report was made and seconded; the transcript records 'Aye' in favor. Commissioners instructed staff to provide additional information on budget impacts, to coordinate any pay‑grade changes with Human Resources and the county budget calendar, and to return with recommendations.