A resolution requesting the Metropolitan Board of Public Education to rescind its facility use policy requiring community groups to furnish a $1 million insurance bond in order to hold meetings at a school facility.

WHEREAS, the Metropolitan Board of Public Education has adopted a policy regarding the use of school facilities by outside organizations; and

WHEREAS, the policy defines outside organizations as "any person, group, association, organization, or corporation not under the exclusive director and/or control of the Metropolitan Government or any of its various departments"; and

WHEREAS, among other requirements, outside organizations must furnish a certificate of public liability insurance in the amount of one million dollars ($1,000,000) naming the Metropolitan Government as an insured party; and

WHEREAS, under the definition of "outside organizations", groups such as parent/teacher organizations (PTOs) and school booster groups are required to furnish this certificate of liability insurance; and

WHEREAS, while the Council recognizes the importance of protecting the Metropolitan Government from liability, such a policy prevents certain community groups from access to schools facilities, which are constructed and maintained by citizen tax dollars; and

WHEREAS, a more lenient policy regarding the use of school facilities by outside organizations would allow underutilized school buildings to accommodate public gatherings, and help foster a sense of community togetherness between the citizens and the Board of Education.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE METROPOLITAN GOVERNMENT OF NASHVILLE AND DAVIDSON COUNTY:

Section 1. That the Metropolitan County Council hereby goes on record as requesting the Metropolitan Board of Public Education to rescind its facility use policy requiring community groups to furnish a $1 million insurance bond in order to hold meetings at a school facility.

Section 2. That the Metropolitan Clerk is directed to send a copy of this Resolution by U.S. mail, interdepartmental mail, or electronic mail to Dr. Pedro Garcia, the Director of Schools, and to each member of the Metropolitan Board of Public Education.

Section 3. This Resolution shall take effect from and after its adoption, the welfare of The Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County requiring it.

Sponsored by: John Summers