TN pays outsourcing consultants more than state employees working the same project

The Tennessee Capitol is shown in Nashville. Gov. Bill Haslam's administration says 700 workers have accepted buyouts in what the administration says is an attempt to right-size state government. The Tennessee State Employees Association says it fears the move will lead to reduced services for state residents. The Tennessee Capitol is shown in Nashville. Gov. Bill Haslam's administration says 700 workers have accepted buyouts in what the administration says is an attempt to right-size state government. The Tennessee State Employees Association says it fears the move will lead to reduced services for state residents.

By Associated Press September 21, 2015 1 min read

The administration of Gov. Bill Haslam is paying three consultants a total of about $47,000 to help develop a potential plan for outsourcing of a wide range of government facilities.

The Knoxville News Sentinel cited state figures in reporting that the amount is more than the administration paid to four state employees working on the same project. The state employees are paid a combined total of nearly $40,000 per month.

Haslam said last week that any decision on outsourcing building management at state facilities is months away. He also said criticism of his administration for exploring outsourcing as a way to save money is misplaced.

Michelle Martin, a spokeswoman for the team working on the privatization plan, said the consultant payments include travel expenses.