NEWSLINK EMPLOYEE NEWSLETTER
SEPTEMBER 2026
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Black Heritage Trail Unveiled
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Return of Movies in the Park
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The Energy Bus & Election Season
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Jon Lane Presentation & Downtown Growth
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National Night Out
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CPR Training
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Caring Cops, Officer Shoutout, & JC101
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Hires, Promotions, & Retirements
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All In with HR
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Wellness Tips
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Financial Literacy Workshop
Black Heritage Trail
Johnson City Parks and Recreation unveiled the City’s first-ever Black Heritage Trail Thursday, Aug. 6, during a ribbon-cutting ceremony at Langston Centre. “Today is a great day for Johnson City because the Black Heritage Trail tells a story that is deeply rooted in the American narrative of liberty,” said Adam Dickson, multicultural engagement manager. “From the formation of churches, schools, and businesses to the development of an ‘I can and I must’ mindset, the Black Heritage Trail reminds us of the uniquely American spirit of perseverance and resilience.”
“We are excited about the opening of the trail. It has been a long time coming — a dream now realized,” said Lottie Ryans, director of workforce and literacy initiatives for the First Tennessee Development District. “So much of our history can be lost, but this permanent tribute will teach students, inform visitors, and honor our elders. With seed money from the Blue Cross Foundation and backing from the City and other organizations, the support for this project has been remarkable.”
The 1-mile walking trail honors the stories, landmarks, and lasting contributions of Black residents who helped shape Johnson City. Through the self-guided experience, visitors can explore historically significant sites, learn about key community moments, and celebrate the legacies that continue to inspire future generations.
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NEWSLINK | SEPTEMBER 2026
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Movies in the Park Black Heritage Trail Markers
Sept. 12 & 24, Oct. 10 | Event at 6 PM, Movie begins at Sunset, approx. 7:30 PM Grab your blankets and popcorn because Movies in the Park is back. Johnson City Parks and Recreation announced its fall lineup for the free, three-week series.
Ten historical markers are featured along the trail, which begins outside Langston Centre and heads down East Millard Street to North Roan Street, ending at Water Street at Thankful Baptist Church. The 10 markers include: Langston High School Black-Owned Businesses
“This year’s Movies in the Park series is more fun with us tying in special themes,” said Parks and Recreation Community Engagement Specialist David Compton. “We have a baseball movie at TVA Credit Union Ballpark, and there’s no better way to celebrate America 250 with the showing of ‘Top Gun.’ We’ll wrap up the series with some Mario fun at Winged Deer Park, which also ties in with our NICA bike race that weekend.” Each event starts at 6 p.m. with games, arts and crafts, and giveaways before the movie. The Super Mario Galaxy showing will have mobile Esports gaming units set up at Meredith Pavilion for visitors to play select games. The movie will begin at sunset, approximately 7:30 p.m.
Pro-To Club (Progress Together) St. Paul AME Zion Church Bethesda Presbyterian Church S&S Grill Masonic Lodge
For more information on Movies in the Park, call David Compton at 423-283-5827.
Langston Marching Band John Sevier Hotel Thankful Baptist Church
SCHEDULE
The trail was a collaborative effort among community stakeholders, including the City of Johnson City and Langston Education and Arts Development (LEAD). Several grants helped fund the trail, including $80,000 from the Tennessee Department of Health, $20,000 from Tennessee America 250, and $5,000 from Tennessee Blue Cross and Blue Shield. Learn More About the Black Heritage Trail
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Sept. 12 | Angels in the Outfield TVA Credit Union Ballpark, 111 Legion St.
Sept. 24 | Top Gun
King Commons Park, 112 N. Commerce St. Special “Stars and Stripes Cinema” night celebrating America’s 250th birthday! This theme night is presented in a partnership with ETSU and Downtown Johnson City
Oct. 10 | Super Mario Galaxy
Winged Deer Park’s Goulding Amphitheater, 201 Carroll Creek Road
NEWSLINK | SEPTEMBER 2026
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Increased Attention, Discussion During Election Season
Lessons from The Energy Bus As part of their biweekly leadership meetings with City Manager Cathy Ball, City leaders recently read The Energy Bus by Jon Gordon. The book encourages readers to approach challenges with a positive mindset while emphasizing how attitude, purpose, and teamwork can influence both personal and professional success. Through practical lessons and relatable stories, The Energy Bus reminds readers that positive energy is contagious. By focusing on shared goals, encouraging others, and choosing optimism during difficult times, teams can build stronger workplace relationships and create a culture where employees and organizations thrive.
Water and Sewer Services Director Jon Lane says, “I was able to read The Energy Bus as part of the Leadership group earlier this year, sharing our thoughts every two weeks with staff from multiple City departments. This was my second time reading the book, and I took more away from it this time than I did the first. The book’s 10 key rules for exhibiting positive energy are presented through a relatable fictional story, and I gained additional ideas for leading Water and Sewer Services and continuing to grow as a team. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone willing to take the time to read it.” Want to read The Energy Bus? Email cojcnews@johnsoncitytn.org, and a copy will be provided.
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Election season can bring increased public attention and political discussion, but our role as local government professionals remains unchanged. ICMA, the professional organization for local government management, outlines a clear code of ethics: City employees are expected to serve all residents fairly and without political bias. While employees may participate in the political process as private citizens, City resources, work time, official titles, and communication channels should never be used to support or oppose candidates or political causes. As City employees, our responsibility is to provide accurate information, deliver quality services, and maintain public trust through impartial and ethical conduct. By remaining focused on our core values: excellence, commitment, integrity, teamwork, engagement, and dedication, we help ensure confidence in local government throughout the election season. Have you followed the City’s social media accounts for updates on major Public Works projects, important news, and the occasional appearance of one of our rising stars?
Beyond his duties as Design and Construction Coordinator, Reece Westmoreland is quickly becoming the City’s next big influencer. Follow the City’s social media pages to catch Reece in action as he shares project updates, explains what’s happening around town, and proves that Public Works can have a little fun in front of the camera, too!
Streaming
NEWSLINK | SEPTEMBER 2026
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Jones Celebrates Growth with New Downtown Business Lane Presents on West Walnut Challenges & Success
Water and Sewer Services Director Jon Lane presented Johnson City’s West Walnut Street Redevelopment Project at the KY/TN Water Professionals Conference in Lexington, Ky. on July 21. His presentation, “Design-Bid-Build in Name Only: The True Story of Johnson City’s West Walnut Street Project,” highlighted the technical challenges, decisionmaking, and successes of the nearly four-year construction project before more than 150 industry professionals. The project involved replacing approximately 11,700 linear feet of water main and 8,600 linear feet of sanitary sewer while navigating a narrow right-of-way, aging and unknown infrastructure, groundwater, shallow rock, and other unforeseen conditions. Although delivered through the traditional Design–Bid–Build process, the project required an adaptive, field-driven approach, with close coordination among City staff, the engineer, and contractor to adjust alignments, sequencing, and construction strategies as conditions changed. Lane shared project imagery, construction footage, and lessons learned, emphasizing the importance of communication, collaboration, and timely decisionmaking in successfully managing complex utility projects. The presentation provided attendees with practical insight into how Johnson City adapted to challenges and ultimately delivered a successful West Walnut Street redevelopment. Source: KY/TN Water Professionals Conference presentation description, “Design-Bid-Build in Name Only: The True Story of Johnson City’s West Walnut Street Project,” presented by Jon Lane, July 21.
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Downtown Johnson City continues to see exciting growth, with 19 new businesses and four expansions opening in 2025 and 2026, with even more on the way. From retail, dining, entertainment, and coffee shops to fitness and specialty businesses, these additions are bringing new energy and more opportunities for residents and visitors to enjoy the downtown district. Main Street Director Lindsey Jones and the Connect Downtown board are celebrating this continued momentum and the confidence local entrepreneurs are placing in downtown Johnson City. “This growth reflects the continued confidence that entrepreneurs have in downtown Johnson City,” Jones said. “Each new business brings something unique to our community and strengthens downtown as a place where people want to invest in our future.” Among the businesses that have recently opened are The French Honeybee Patisserie, Seven Wonders Play Café, Maybell and Mine, Vino Noir, Hound Dogs, Twisted Fork, JC Movement Co., The Well Coffee Shop, Alumni Hall, Fearless Coffee and Kitchen, Blue Ridge Clay, 324 East, and others. Four existing businesses, The Moon Coffee and Tea, The Wilson Agency, The Bush House, and Some Apparel, have also expanded. The momentum is expected to continue, with six additional businesses , Copper and Glass, 6ix BrewHouse, Mamas Grocery, The Lab Pizza, Laced Up, and Little Animals Beer Project, coming soon. This continued investment strengthens downtown and reflects the efforts of Connect Downtown and City partners.
NEWSLINK | SEPTEMBER 2026
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National Night Out Community, Connection, & Fun National Night Out, hosted by the Johnson City Police Department, delivered a great evening of community connection and fun to the Pavilion at Founders Park on Aug. 4. Neighbors came together to meet local first responders, get an inside look at the world of policing, grab a snack, and enjoy activities organized by groups from across the area. Our thanks goes to community partners, sponsors, volunteers, and employees who made the event a success. Take a look at some of the moments that made this year’s National Night Out one to remember. We’re already looking forward to next year!
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NEWSLINK | SEPTEMBER 2026
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Ready to Respond
Learn Skills That Can Save A Life: JCFD Opens Enrollment for Hands-Only CPR Training The Johnson City Fire Department (JCFD) invites the community to learn skills that could make a critical difference in an emergency. Registration is now open for the JCFD’s quarterly hands-only cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) training. The free class is designed to empower participants with the confidence to act when seconds matter. The next training will take place Sept. 28 from 6-8 p.m. at the JCFD Training Facility, 2832 W. Walnut St. Participants will train on high-tech Brayden CPR manikins, which use animated LED lights to provide real-time feedback on compression quality and blood circulation. The class also includes instruction on proper fire extinguisher use. Participants will practice using a laser training extinguisher simulator and an LEDdriven digital flame, providing a realistic training experience without the hazards of an actual fire. Whether responding to a medical emergency or a small fire, knowing what to do before first
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Calls for Service
JULY
AUGUST
FIRE - 25 MEDICAL - 614 OTHER - 253
FIRE - 23 MEDICAL - 611 Other - 260
responders arrive can make a big difference. “We’re pleased to continue offering this training to our community,” said JCFD Chief David Bell. “Every class gives residents an opportunity to learn skills they may never expect to use but will be glad to have when an emergency happens.” For additional information, call 423-975-2840.
Sign Up for the September Course
NEWSLINK | SEPTEMBER 2026
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Caring Cops
Officer Shoutout
Officers with the Johnson City Police Department (JCPD) and McGruff the Crime Dog recently spent some time with young patients at Niswonger Children’s Hospital through our Caring Cops program. It was a morning filled with teddy bears, smiles, and encouragement. JCPD officers make monthly trips to the hospital to visit with patients and their families.
“My kids go to Woodland Elementary School, and your SRO there, Officer McKinney, is fabulous! He always goes well above and beyond to be intentional and keep them safe! He’s so great with the kids, too! I just thought you would want to know! Thanks for keeping our babies safe!”
JC101 JC101 is a free nine-week civic engagement program designed to help residents better understand how Johnson City government works and how they can become more involved in their community. Through presentations, tours, and Q&A sessions, participants gain an inside look at key City services and operations.
Apply for JC101 Now
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NEWSLINK | SEPTEMBER 2026
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John Anderson Real Time Crime Center Manager ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Sierra Mason Economic Development Specialist CUSTODIAN Kristie Williams Facilities Management TRANSIT Michael Boyd Operator II FIRE Austen Condon Firefighter Ryan Kimberling Firefighter Marshall Brown Firefighter Christian Sanchez Firefighter Kaleb Wilkins Firefighter Nicholas Bailey Firefighter FLEET Garrison Bellman Master Service Technician PURCHASING Theresa Bailey Administrative Specialist I PLANNING Drew Pearson Development Coordinator
Sean Carden Program Coordinator I Michael (Alex) Ward Athletics Manager PUBLIC WORKS Michael Hudson Concrete Maintenance Worker James Hughes Motor Equipment Operator III Austin Greer Motor Equipment Operator I William Gowin Motor Equipment Operator III WATER & SEWER James (Aaron) Mullins W/WW Superintendent Dillon Morrell Motor Equipment Operator III Matthew Largent W/WW Maintenance Mechanic II Brendon DeMuth Water Plant Operator II David Harmon W/WW Service Worker Benjamin Smith Engineering Technician II TRANSIT John Blevins Transit Operator II Tammy Tetreault Transit Operator II Penny Smith Transit Operator I PLANNING Hedy Bartley Planner I SENIOR CENTER Jordan Click Program Supervisor
Promotions
Retirements
FIRE Matthew Montgomery Driver/Engineer Shane Isaacs Deputy Fire Marshal PARKS & RECREATION Roddemus Butler Program Coordinator I Gary Holt Park Services Technician I
FREEDOM HALL Sandra Trivett Box Office Assistant TRANSIT Anita Hamby Transit Operator III JUVENILE COURT Sharon Green Judge
Hires, Promotions, & Retirements July & August
Hires PARKS & RECREATION Gary Holt Park Attendant Sarah Holley Administrative Specialist I PUBLIC WORKS Akeem Caldwell Concrete Maintenance Worker Jeffrey Story Traffic Signs and Markings Tech I Adam Landsman Sanitation Equipment Operator Jacob Cutler Sanitation Equipment Operator Ian Thompson Sanitation Equipment Operator Ryan Fagan Motor Equipment Operator II Angelo Capobianco Sanitation Equipment Operator Matthew Hill Sanitation Equipment Operator Logan Douglas Motor Equipment Operator II Ian Caudill Tree Trimmer I WATER & SEWER Jaiden Wallin Public Service Worker Michael Forbes Landscape Tech I Andrew Blythe IT Specialist Skyler Bennett Motor Equipment Operator II Mark Gilbert W/WW Superintendent JUVENILE COURT Stephaine Sherwood Judge POLICE Kymberly Kirkpatrick Victim Services Coordinator Deidra Oliver Records Clerk
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NEWSLINK | SEPTEMBER 2026
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Comprehensive Employee Assistance Program
All In with HR
City of Johnson City Employees & Their Dependents
At the City of Johnson City, we Go. All. Out. to enrich the quality of life in our community — and that commitment starts with our employees. Human Resources is here to help you make the most of the benefits, wellness programs, resources, and opportunities available to support you and your family.
BALLAD HEALTH PSYCHIATRY AND EMPLOYEE ASSISTANCE PROGRAM Our services include: - Couples Therapy - Family Therapy - Individual Therapy - Medication Management - Telehealth & Phone Sessions The Employee Assistance Program (EAP) offers help with day-to-day issues. Our Staff is well-trained with years of experience.
Are you having problems with
Each month, All In with HR will feature: •
Employee benefits and wellness highlights
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- Anxiety/Stress - Parent/Child Conflict - Depression/Grief - PTSD - Workplace Stressors - ADHD/ADD Testing - Drug/Alcohol Addiction - Emotional Eating - Behavioral Conduct/CBT - Adolescent Peer Pressure
All appointments are confidential and there is no need to contact your employer. Call 423-302-3480 to schedule an apointment.
GET IN TOUCH
HR policies and helpful
24/7 Respond Crisis Hotline - 800-366-1132
Important dates and deadlines
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525 N State of Franklin Rd., Suite 9, Johnson City 37604 24/7 Walk-in Crisis Center @ Woodridge Hospital
reminders •
- 12 FREE EAP VISITS - Shortened Wait Times for Appointments - Critical Incident Debriefing - Customized Training & Education
A monthly health and wellness awareness topic
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Benefits include
Human Resources Contact Information
Links to valuable resources
Melanie Rice
Director
mrice@johnsoncitytn.org
423-434-6016
Shanda Sargent
Assistant Director
ssargent@johnsoncitytn.org
423-434-6020
Shannon Arias
Benefits Coordinator
sarias@johnsoncitytn.org
423-434-5971
If there’s a topic or feature you’d like to see included, we’d love to hear from you.
Dean Hevner
HR Coordinator
dhevner@johnsoncitytn.org
423-434-6017
Talent & Acquisition Specialist
jcardonasantiago@ johnsoncitytn.org
423-434-5972
Email us at hr@johnsoncitytn.org.
Robert Caruolo
HR Generalist
rcaruolo@johnsoncitytn.org
423-434-6018
Barry Bishop
CDL Compliance & Training
bbishop@johnsoncitytn.org
423-434-5840
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Healthy recipes and wellness tips
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And much more!
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Juan Cardona Santiago
NEWSLINK | SEPTEMBER 2026
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Prostate Cancer Awareness Month
Helplines 988 Lifeline SAMHSA Veterans Crisis Line
Did You Know? About 1 in 8 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during their lifetime? If you're covered by the City of Johnson City BCBS health insurance plan, an innetwork prostate exam is covered at 100 percent. Talk with your healthcare provider about whether prostate cancer screening is appropriate for you based on your age, family history, and personal risk factors. Early detection can make a significant difference.
Suicide Prevention Awareness Month Preventing suicide begins long before someone is experiencing a crisis. By creating healthy environments for individuals, families, and communities, we can protect people from feeling suicidal in the first place. We can also lessen the community effects of suicides when they do happen, which can reduce risk among those who lost a loved one to suicide, and promote healing. Everyone can help prevent suicide by learning the warning signs, promoting resilience, and supporting people at risk.
Learn More
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The Trevor Project
Wellness Tips Take Advantage of Preventive Care Did you know that many preventive services are covered at 100% under the City’s health plan? Annual wellness exams, mammograms, colonoscopies, and well-child visits can help detect health concerns early — often before symptoms appear. Most of these services can be scheduled at the Johnson City Employee Clinic. Scheduling these routine visits is one of the easiest ways to protect your health and avoid more serious issues down the road. Small steps today can make a big difference in your health tomorrow. Make an appointment with the Employee Health Clinic by calling 423-431-7340 or learn how to download the Ballad Health MyChart app.
Mental Wellness is Extremely Important! Your mental health is just as important as your physical health. Taking care of your mind can improve your mood, reduce stress, increase productivity, and help you better manage life’s challenges.
Here are a few simple ways to support your mental well-being: • Take short breaks throughout the day to recharge. • Go for a walk or get moving — even a few minutes of activity can boost your mood. • Prioritize quality sleep each night. • Stay connected with family, friends, and coworkers. • Practice mindfulness, deep breathing, or meditation to reduce stress. • Ask for help when you need it — reaching out is a sign of strength. Remember, taking care of your mental health isn’t selfish — it’s essential. Even small, consistent habits can make a big difference in your overall well-being.
Dates to Remember Labor Day Monday, September 7 Benefits Open Enrollment November 2-13, 2026 Last day to turn in wellness forms November 30, 2026
Helpful Quick Links Employee Benefits Portal Employee Discounts through BCBST
NEWSLINK | SEPTEMBER 2026
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Healthy Recipes Fajita Steak Kabobs Prep Time: 15 mins. (additional 30 mins. for soaking wooden skewers, if needed) Cook Time: 4-8 mins. Servings: 4 Ingredients 1lb. sirloin steak 6 bell peppers • Cut into 1 1/2-in. pieces 2 red onions • Cut into bite-sized pieces 2 Tbsp avocado or olive oil Sea salt, to taste Fresh cracked black pepper, to taste Directions 1. Preheat grill to mediumhigh heat 2. Trim any excess fat from the steak and cut into bitesized cubes 3. Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes (if using) to prevent burning 4. Assemble kabobs by threading steak, peppers, and onions onto skewers in alternating patterns 5. Brush skewers lightly with oil and season with sea salt and black pepper 6. Grill: Medium-Rare: 4-6 minutes total (about 2 minutes per side) MediumWell: 6-8 minutes total
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7. Serve immediately with an extra sprinkle of sea salt and fresh cracked black pepper, if desired Serving Suggestion: Pair with rice, grilled corn, roasted potatoes, or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal. Submit your healthy recipes to hr@johnsoncitytn.org and we may feature them in the next edition.
Give Every Dollar a Job Financial Literacy Workshop Budgeting doesn’t have to feel restrictive or overwhelming. Human Resources is offering Give Every Dollar a Job, a casual, judgment-free workshop designed to help you feel more confident and in control of your paycheck — starting with your next one. The workshop will introduce the YNAB (You Need A Budget) method, a simple approach to managing your money through five questions: 1. Reality: Where does my money need to go before I’m paid again? 2. Stability: What larger, lessfrequent expenses do I need to prepare for? 3. Resilience: What can I set aside for next month’s spending? 4. Creation: What goals, big or small, do I want to prioritize?
5. Flexibility: What changes do I need to make, if any? Bring your lunch and join us for a practical conversation about making your money work for you.
Financial Literacy Workshop Details Date: Tuesday, Oct. 6 Sessions: Noon & 1 p.m. Location: Memorial Park Community Center Media Room RSVP by: Sept. 30 To RSVP: Contact Melanie Rice at mrice@johnsoncitytn. org or 423-434-6016.
P-card Training Concluded Training for the new p-cards and card management system has officially concluded. In less than a month, Purchasing trained more than 350 cardholders and 40 card administrators. Purchasing would like to thank everyone for their patience, flexibility, and assistance throughout this transition. If you experience any issues with your new card, please contact the Purchasing office at 423975-2715 for assistance.
NEWSLINK | SEPTEMBER 2026
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