IN THIS EDITION Page 2
Parks and Recreation Santa
Page 3
Budget Award
December 2025
Busy holiday season for staff
Festival of Nations Page 4
Fireball Returns
Page 5
WSS Tour Carman Honored
Page 6
Geis to Join the City Photo Recap
Page 7
City Hall Decorations
Page 8
2025 Public Works Olinger Honored
Page 9
Baker to Retire Photo Recap
Page 10 Employee Luncheon Page 11
Q & A with Dougherty
Page 12 Pine Oaks Annual Pass W-2 Update Page 13 New Hires, Retirements, Promotions Page 14 City-Observed Holidays
Do you have an idea for an item that should be included in future editions of Newslink? We are always looking for department news, personal accomplishments and people to feature. Send your suggestions to cojcnews@johnsoncitytn.org.
With Santa’s schedule busier than ever this holiday season, he still managed to squeeze in visits to several Johnson City Parks and Recreation events last week. Last Thursday, Santa was spotted inside Memorial Park Community Center for the annual Sensory Santa program. Designed for those with sensory sensitivity needs, the event provided quiet, individualized visits, and photos with Santa. “This is Bentley’s second year getting to be here with Santa, and as you saw, he remembered Santa and made him feel welcome,” said
Bentley’s mother. “Bentley is very overwhelmed by his autism, but he is so happy to be back seeing Santa again this year. I cannot thank Johnson City Parks and Recreation enough for this event. It means a lot to me and Bentley.” Santa returned to Memorial Park Community Center on Friday, bringing holiday cheer to the Senior Christmas Dance. With live music from Kicking Up Dust, Santa and attendees enjoyed holiday treats, stopped for photos, and danced the night away. For Maureen Mulroy, the Senior Center provides a Continued on page 2
NEWSLINK December 2025 Continued: Busy holiday season for staff family atmosphere, and she really enjoys the special events it offers.
skating, Santa and Mrs. Claus were available for photos on stage.
“For those of us who don’t have family in the area, this is a hub for making friendships,” said Mulroy. “Friendships that take you through the good and bad times. Coming out for a Christmas dance is an opportunity to really engage with the wide variety of people who are here, because they feel there’s something to celebrate about life. Amongst the beautiful decorations, the great music, and Santa Claus, who would not be in a great spirit!”
“It was a wonderful event,” said Johnson City resident Jennifer Hansen. “I was able to bring my six kids. They were able to skate for free, listen to fun music, see Santa, and enjoy doughnuts and hot chocolate. It’s a great event for Johnson City. Everyone was so happy, and we all had a great time. It was so nice to have something to do inside with it being really cold outside.”
Maureen was also able to check off a bucket list item when she shared a dance with Santa. It’s something she said she’d always wanted to do.
From everyone at Parks and Recreation, merry Christmas and happy holidays!
For his last visit, Santa and Mrs. Claus headed to Freedom Hall Civic Center on Sunday for the Let it Roll roller skating party. Holiday music played throughout the arena as Santa’s elves served up doughnuts and hot chocolate to the skaters. Following the
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NEWSLINK December 2025 Budget receives award for best practices Year 2025 budget. This continued achievement underscores Johnson City’s commitment to thorough and transparent financial planning.
Once again, Johnson City has earned the Distinguished Budget Presentation Award from the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA), recognizing the City’s Fiscal
The GFOA, a professional association representing more than 20,000 government finance professionals, grants this award to local governments that meet the highest standards in governmental budgeting. Budgets receiving this distinction demonstrate best practices in policy development, financial planning, and communication.
The Budget Department, under the leadership of Director Dustin Thompson, prioritizes accountability and excellence in financial management. Dustin’s work, along with the collaboration of City leadership and staff across departments, contributed to this recognition. Earning the Distinguished Budget Presentation Award again reflects the collective effort to responsibly manage public resources and support Johnson City’s long-term goals.
Festival of Nations brings together community Thank you to everyone who attended the Festival of Nations celebration last Wednesday at the Langston Centre. Attendees enjoyed Christmas carols from the Senior Chorale, celebrated international traditions, and shared authentic holiday dishes from various cultures.
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NEWSLINK December 2025 Fireball’s Christmas antics return in 2025 On a puff of glitter and a trail of peppermint-scented smoke, Fireball reported for duty at the Johnson City Fire Department on Dec. 1. This year marks his second holiday season with the Department.
“I’m a professional,” Fireball declared while adjusting his tiny turnout gear. “All of my pranks are approved by the National Fire Protection Association...mostly,” he said with a chuckle.
Fireball will remain with the JCFD until Dec. 24, when he returns to the North Pole to file his official report on local cheer quality, cookie availability, and firefighter behavior.
Since his arrival in Johnson City, Fireball has been busy spreading the occasional mild panic among firefighters with his acts of mischief. However, Fireball insists that all of his hijinks have been cleared by the City’s Risk Management team.
Spreading Christmas cheer through his shenanigans isn’t Fireball’s only mission while with the JCFD. He’s been sharing important fire safety information on the Department’s social media pages.
When asked what he hopes to accomplish before his departure, Fireball replied, “I want to help make the season merry, keep everyone safe, and maybe convince Chief David Bell to let me drive one of the fire engines. I’m small, but I’m mighty!” We asked Chief Bell if driving is in Fireball’s future. “That’s a hard NO,” said Bell. Until his departure, you can follow his antics on the JCFD’s Facebook and Instagram.
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NEWSLINK December 2025 WSS offers educational tour to ETSU students Water and Sewer Services recently welcomed a group of East Tennessee State University students to the Regional Wastewater Treatment Plant for an educational tour. The visit, held in late November, offered students an inside look at the essential systems that support
public health throughout Johnson City. The group included 45 attendees from ETSU’s Department of Community and Behavioral Health, all participating in a Project EARTH course focused on the many facets of public
health. Led by Interim Chair and Professor Mike Stoots, the students asked thoughtful questions as they explored the facility. WSS staff worked closely with Professor Stoots to coordinate the tour, which highlighted the critical work that goes into protecting water quality and the environment. To learn more about Project EARTH, visit the ETSU website by clicking the button below.
Learn More
Carman recognized with 40 Under Forty award Each year, the Business Journal of Tri-Cities Tennessee/Virginia recognizes young professionals in the Tri-Cities with the 40 Under Forty awards. The honor is presented for demonstrating exceptional leadership and achievements in their fields and the community. Among those recognized this year is the Johnson City Police Department’s Lt. Nate Carman. He was nominated by City
Manager Cathy Ball.
and the next generation of regional leaders.”
“Nate has distinguished himself through professionalism, character, and a genuine commitment to making Johnson City a stronger, safer, more connected community,” said Ball. “He approaches every assignment with integrity, humility, and a clear sense of responsibility to others. He is an outstanding representative of both our city government
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NEWSLINK December 2025 Geis joins leadership as assistant city manager he oversaw daily operations for water and wastewater, electric utilities, customer service, recycling and waste, stormwater, fleet services, and other city departments. “We are pleased to welcome Nick to Johnson City,” said Ball. “His experience overseeing complex municipal operations will support our organization as we continue strengthening services, and we look forward to the leadership he will provide in this role.” City Manager Cathy Ball announced that Nick Geis has been named Johnson City’s newest assistant city manager. Most recently, Geis served as the assistant city manager for Lexington, N.C., where
Prior to joining Lexington, Geis spent nearly a decade with the City of WinstonSalem in several leadership positions, including director of Fleet Services and director of Property and Facilities
Management. His earlier experience also included serving as assistant director and financial analyst for the Sanitation Department, where he supported operating and capital budgets and monitored performance metrics. “I am honored to join Johnson City in this new role and appreciate the opportunity to serve this community,” Geis said. “My career has allowed me to work across a wide range of departments, and I look forward to supporting and collaborating with staff.” Geis earned a master’s degree in public administration from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and a bachelor’s degree from Appalachian State University.
Photo Recap: Annual Shop with a Cop event
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NEWSLINK December 2025 Staff GO. ALL. OUT. with festive decorations Several City teams helped spread holiday cheer across City Hall by decorating festive trees in public-facing spaces, adding warmth and seasonal spirit for employees and visitors alike. Department Services custodial staff members Hailey Slone and Rhonda Ferguson decorated the Christmas tree in the main lobby of the Municipal and Safety Building. Alongside their responsibility for maintaining multiple City buildings, they took extra care to ensure the space reflected the season. In the Development Services
lobby, Permit Technician Kimberly Salgado, Trade Inspector Billy Flanary, and Permitting Coordinator Adrienne Brown collaborated on a construction-themed tree that showcased creativity and teamwork. A traditional holiday tree now greets visitors in the front lobby thanks to the efforts of Customer Service Representative Julie Chesser and Customer Service Clerk Jessica Haun.
holiday tree. Thank you to all staff who participated in decorating for the holidays. Your efforts contribute to employee morale, enhance the visitor experience, and reflect a shared commitment to going all out in every assignment.
At the Planning counter, Planning Technician Hedy Bartley added festive touches by decorating the area’s
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NEWSLINK December 2025 Public Works delivers outstanding service and protect stormwater systems citywide. Street maintenance remained a top priority. Public Works paved 29 lane miles, representing approximately 5% of the city’s 592-mile road network, and completed 3,399 pothole repairs and large patches to improve driving conditions and extend roadway life. In 2025, Johnson City Public Works delivered essential services that kept neighborhoods clean, roads safe, and public spaces well maintained. Seasonal collection efforts removed a significant volume of yard waste and debris from city streets. Crews collected 2,820 tons of leaves, 5,420 tons of brush, and 256 tons of litter and debris, helping maintain curb appeal
The Department also made major investments in landscaping and tree maintenance. Crews completed the West Walnut Street landscaping project and planted 2,852 shrubs, 60 trees, and more than 70,000 square feet of wildflowers. An additional 47,000 square feet of landscaped mulched areas were added, bringing the total maintained landscaped area to nearly 298,000 square feet, the equivalent of more than two Founders Parks.
Olinger adds certificate to accomplishments Recently, Water and Sewer Services Development Coordinator Travis Olinger earned a certification from the National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies in Construction Engineering Technology – Certified Engineering Technologist. This achievement reflects Travis’ commitment to advancing his technical expertise. His dedication to professional development strengthens the department’s ability to deliver high-quality service to the community.
Travis W Olinger Construction Engineering Technology Certified Engineering Technologist 174275 2028-12-01
Congratulations, Travis.
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NEWSLINK December 2025 Baker to retire after 44 years of dedication and was promoted to Risk Management director in 2006. Throughout her career, she played a central role in strengthening workplace safety and cultivating a culture focused on employee health and wellness.
After more than four decades of dedicated service, Risk Management Director Joy Baker is being honored by the Johnson City Board of Commissioners for her remarkable contributions to the City and its employees. Joy joined the City in 1981 as a risk manager in the Personnel Department
Joy was instrumental in establishing cost and allocation systems that improved the performance of the City’s liability and workers’ compensation programs while ensuring compliance with State and Federal standards. Her professionalism and expertise have earned widespread respect, culminating in her induction into the Public Risk Management Honor Roll by
Public Entity Partners earlier this year. She also helped the City secure the Tennessee Municipal League’s statewide award for risk management— first in 1988 and again in 2017. Known for her level-headed and steady leadership, Joy has long been regarded as a trusted colleague across the organization. The Board of Commissioners will formally extend its appreciation for her 44 years of exemplary service to the City of Johnson City at the Commission Meeting on Dec. 18. Join Joy for a retirement party on Friday, Dec. 19 from 3-5 p.m. in the Administrative Conference Room.
Photo Recap: Annual Christmas Parade Floats
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NEWSLINK December 2025 Holiday merriment brings staff together Sara DelBene, with support from Parks and Recreation staff and the Communications and Engagement Department, and welcomed hundreds of employees to the Memorial Park Community Center for an afternoon of good food and holiday cheer.
City employees came together once again to celebrate the season at the annual Johnson City Employee Christmas Luncheon, an annual tradition that offers a chance to slow down, connect, and reflect on the year’s accomplishments. The event was hosted by Main Street Director Lindsey Jones and Special Events Manager
A catered meal from Project BBQ set the stage for conversation and camaraderie as coworkers from across departments gathered around the table. City Manager Cathy Ball and Mayor Greg Cox shared remarks thanking employees for their dedicated service before adding a fun surprise with a random prize drawing and gift bag giveaways.
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NEWSLINK December 2025 Dougherty shares career, personal insights
Q: When you began your career with the Johnson City Police Department more than three decades ago, did you ever envision yourself as chief? Why or why not? A: It never even crossed my mind. That was not a goal I had for myself. The goals I had as a young officer were to be involved in the Department’s special operations: the SWAT team and being a K9 officer. I was fortunate to be able to do both of those. Opportunities came up through the years, and I have been truly blessed to be in the right spot at the right time. Q: What are some of your goals for the Johnson City Police Department?
A: My main goal is preparedness. The City invests a great deal of monies into the PD. Not only in training, but personnel as well. I believe we need to make a stronger effort to retain the officers that we have. It is critical to have the right people in police work, and the citizens of JC deserve our best. Part of that is continual training from the basics to being prepared for critical incidents.
Q: What is the last book you read? What book(s) are you currently reading? A: Set in Order The Things That Are Lacking is a book about Biblical leadership. Currently, I’m reading Awake at Night. It’s a book about other leaders and scenarios that they have worked through.
Q: What is one message about the JCPD that you would like to share with the community? A: It would be to thank them for their support and the responsibility that each officer here at JCPD has. It is not taken lightly. This department is moving forward with purpose. That purpose simply stated is to protect and serve. Q: If you weren’t a police chief, what other profession do you think you would pursue? A: It would be something working outside, maybe some type of farming or raising livestock.
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NEWSLINK December 2025 Gift Idea? Pine Oaks offers annual pass Still searching for the perfect holiday gift for the golf fan in your life? Pine Oaks Golf Course has you covered, as annual passes and gift certificates are now available. Several options of annual passes are available to both residents and non-residents. Individual memberships begin at $1,000, while family passes are $1,800. Discounted rates apply to seniors ages 62 and older, with passes starting at $875, and juniors 15 and under at $575. Frequent user passes are also available starting at $400 with a green fee of $10 per visit. Additional charges will be applied to non-resident annual passes.
Annual cart rentals start at $1,400 and include storage. The rider fee is $12. Members may begin play by paying one-third the total fees upfront. The remaining balance must be paid by April 1, 2026. Payment plans are not offered for frequent user passes. All passes expire on Dec. 31, 2026 and are non-refundable. Annual passes and gift certificates are available for purchase at the Pro Shop or by calling 423.434.6250. Pine Oaks Golf Course is located at 1709 Buffalo Road. More information on the annual passes can be found at www. pineoaksgolf.com.
Important update: Change to W-2 delivery Beginning in January 2026, W-2s will no longer be printed and delivered; instead they will be accessible electronically in Oracle. Termed and/or retired employees will have their W-2s mailed to the address on record with Human Resources. Information Technology requests that everyone verify
their access to Oracle and reset passwords if necessary.
assistance with accessing and printing.
Closer to January, detailed instructions on how to access W-2s in Oracle will be provided. After W-2s have been published in Oracle, various times will be scheduled for employees to drop into locations for
IT recognizes this as a big change and will answer any questions that arise because of the adjustment. Contact help@johnsoncitytn.org or call 423.434.4357 to connect with an IT staff member who can assist you with questions.
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NEWSLINK December 2025 Congratulations new hires, promotions, retirements New Hires - November Cathy Short - Finance Christopher Mosier - Public Works Brian Smith - Public Works Christopher Gentry - Public Works David Harmon - Water and Sewer Services Tammy Coen - Transit Tammy Brady - Transit Frankie Pergram - Public Works Cameron Johnson - Public Works Benjamin Johnson - Information Technology Mathew Jones - Finance Leslie Ellingburg - Parks and Recreation
Promotions - November Eric Dougherty - Police Mike Adams - Police
Fire Calls for Service
Timothy Hensley - Police Matt Gryder - Police
The JCFD responded to 817 calls for
Jeff Legault - Police
service during November
Shane Williams - Police Gary Wills - Police
Here’s the breakdown:
Timmy Joe Hensley - Police
•
Fire – 25
Johnnie Willis - Police
•
EMS – 480
Jon Dempsey - Police
•
Other – 312 (includes anything that is not a fire or medical call)
Retirements - November Billy Church - Police (31) Scott Jenkins - Police (30)
Every response is a reminder of the trust you place in us. We are committed to being there whenever you call!
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NEWSLINK December 2025
2026 City-Observed Holidays The following are the holidays observed by the City of Johnson City in 2026, during which offices will be closed.
New Year’s Day
Thursday, January 1
Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
Monday, January 19
Memorial Day
Monday, May 25
Independence Day
Friday, July 3
Labor Day
Monday, September 7
Thanksgiving Holiday
Thursday, November 26 Friday, November 27
Christmas Holiday
Thursday, December 24 Friday, December 25
.
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