JCLA Capstone Continued Raftelis Article Retirements, Hires, Promotions
June 2026
Designation sought for park
Buffalo Mountain City Park moved one step closer to a state natural area designation, Parks and Recreation Planning and Project Manager Dr. Maggie Darden announced to the Johnson City Board of Commissioners on May 7.
Staff from the state’s Division of Natural Areas visited Buffalo Mountain City Park last month to evaluate the site for the Natural Areas Program. Following the visit, staff members determined the park is a candidate for state natural area designation.
A defined boundary of Buffalo Mountain City Park will be incorporated into the Tennessee Natural Areas Act of 1971, placing a
conservation easement within this designated area. The City will then work with state staff to develop land management and fire prevention plans for the boundary.
The effort follows feedback from the Johnson City Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Master Plan, which includes strong interest from the community in preserving the park for low-impact recreation.
Administrative steps for property preparation are already underway with the Division of Natural Areas. The process is expected to conclude with an amendment to state legislation directed by Division staff. The anticipated timeline is an estimated two years.
June 2026
Officers honored for exceptional service
The Johnson City Police Department (JCPD) is proud to recognize officers for their exceptional service and dedication to the community through the presentation of awards for excellence. Four officers received the JCPD Life Saving Award, four officers earned Letters of Commendation, and one officer was named Officer of the Quarter for January through March.
Officers Paul Miller and Austin Canter received the JCPD Life Saving Award for their actions on April 16. Responding to a traffic crash, the officers determined the driver was in cardiac arrest. They quickly removed the driver from the vehicle and immediately began life-saving measures, administering chest compressions and
using an automated external defibrillator (AED). Their efforts continued until the Johnson City Fire Department (JCFD) and EMS personnel arrived to provide advanced medical care. Because of their swift and decisive actions, the patient was alive upon arrival at the hospital.
Investigator Sarah Proffitt and Officer Travis Taylor assisted in the rescue and received Letters of Commendation in recognition of their actions.
During snowy conditions on Jan. 31, a man collapsed while sledding. Officers Zachary Harris and Justin Carter responded and determined the man was not breathing. The officers took turns performing chest compressions and EMS personnel administered AED
shocks. Officers Harris and Carter received the JCPD Life Saving Award. They also were presented Certificates of Commendation from the JCFD.
Officers Zachary Moody and Peyton Dugger assisted in the rescue and were presented Certificates of Commendation from the JCFD. Thanks to the quick response and coordinated efforts of these four officers, the patient survived the incident.
This year, the JCPD launched its Officer of the Quarter program to recognize exceptional performance. Officer Robert Hall was presented the inaugural award for the first quarter.
On April 3, Officer Hall’s vigilance and attention to detail led to the arrests of three suspects in ATM burglaries in Johnson City. The officer’s quick actions and investigative instincts played a key role in helping the Criminal Investigations Division build the case against the suspects.
Awards are presented to JCPD personnel following an official nomination by their supervisor, and review and selection by the JCPD Awards Committee.
Lakeside concert returns every Thursday
The lineup for the 2026 Lakeside Concert Series has been officially announced as live music by the water returns this summer to Winged Deer Park’s Goulding Amphitheatre. The concerts will take place 7-9 p.m. every Thursday in June. The four-week series kicks off
June 4 with newcomer 20 Ride, a Zac Brown tribute band, followed by returning favorites The 77 Experience on June 11 and From the Edge on June 18.
The Legacy Motown Revue concludes the series with some soul music on June 25.
“We’re excited for another fun summer on the lakefront,” said Parks and Recreation Community Engagement Specialist David Compton. “This year’s lineup offers a great mix of acts, and we hope our fans will enjoy every show. There’s no better way to start the summer than free music on
the water.”
Admission is free and open to all ages. Attendees are encouraged to bring blankets or lawn chairs for relaxing on the grassy hillsides. The venue offers free parking, a playground, and easy access. Each concert will also include food trucks, children’s activities, games, and giveaways.
The concert series is held at Winged Deer Park’s Goulding Amphitheatre, 199 Carroll Creek Road, Johnson City. For more information, call 423283-5827.
OSHA sessions offered beginning in July
Risk Management will offer several OSHA 30-Hour General Industry training sessions beginning in July. All supervisors are required to register and attend one session.
Employees interested in participating should use the link to the right to sign up. Please register for only one class, as space is limited.
The 2026 class schedule is as follows:
Class 1: July 14, 16, 21, 23, 28 and 30
Class 2: Aug. 11, 13, 18, 20, 25 and 27
Class 3: Sept. 8, 10, 15, 17, 22 and 24
Class 4: Oct. 13, 15, 20, 22, 27 and 29
The 2027 class schedule is as follows:
Class 5: Jan. 12, 14, 19, 21, 26 and 28
Class 6: Feb. 9, 11, 16, 18, 23 and 25
Each class will be held from 7:30 a.m.-1 p.m.
LEARN MORE
June 2026
Employee luncheon celebrates public service
City employees came together during Public Service Recognition Week for the annual Employee Appreciation Luncheon, an opportunity to recognize the people whose daily efforts help make Johnson City a great place to live, work, and visit.
A featured part of the event was the presentation of the Go. All. Out. Awards. These peer-nominated honors celebrate employees who consistently demonstrate the City’s core values of Excellence, Customer Service, Integrity, Teamwork,
Engagement, and Dedication. Because nominations come from fellow employees, the awards reflect the respect and appreciation of colleagues who see these contributions firsthand.
The 2026 Go. All. Out. Award recipients are:
• Excellence – Michelle Godsey, Transit
• Customer Service – Jolene Stallard, Water and Sewer Services
• Integrity – Steve Alexander, Fire
• Teamwork – Riley Pudney, Planning
• Engagement – Sarah Nobles, Communications and Engagement
• Dedication – Adam Dickson, Parks and Recreation
As the community continues to evolve, the dedication and professionalism of City employees remain at the heart of Johnson City’s continued success.
Rice selected for competitive program
Human Resource Director Melanie Rice has been selected for the inaugural cohort of PULSE TN:
Strengths-Based Leadership
Intensive, a new statewide program led by the University of Tennessee Municipal Technical Advisory Service. The program brings together municipal leaders and community partners from across Tennessee to strengthen leadership skills while addressing challenges facing communities statewide.
During the multi-month program, Melanie will
participate in workshops, discussions, and servicelearning experiences focused on collaboration, adaptive leadership, and community impact. Participants were selected through a competitive nomination and application process.
To read the article, click learn more below.
Sixteen consecutive years of excellence
The National Association of Clean Water Agencies recognized the Water and Sewer Services Department’s Regional Wastewater Treatment Plant with a Platinum Peak Performance Award, marking 16 consecutive years of 100 percent compliance. Chief Wastewater Plant Operator Aaron Mullins, Wastewater Plant Operator Michael Rocker and other WSS staff members were recognized for this achievement and
commended for their continued commitment to protecting the environment through excellence in wastewater management.
LEARN MORE
Memorial wall honoring fallen officers
On May 15, in observance of National Peace Officers Memorial Day, the Johnson City Police Department dedicated a permanent memorial honoring the four officers who lost their lives in the line of duty while serving the Department.
The Memorial Wall pays tribute to the service and sacrifice of:
Officer Walter McPeak, End of Watch: June 23, 1910 – A suspect who was arrested for alcoholrelated offenses stabbed Officer McPeak in the chest. The officer died at the scene. He honorably served with the JCPD for two years.
Chief George Campbell, End of Watch: Sept. 16, 1914 – Campbell was responding to a domesticrelated incident and was shot in the head by the suspect. He died instantly. Campbell devoted 22 years of faithful service to the JCPD.
Assistant Chief Thomas S. Church, End of Watch: Jan. 8, 1928 – While responding to a disturbance call, Church was shot in the abdomen by the suspect. The assistant chief died at the hospital. He proudly dedicated six
years to the JCPD.
Officer James Watkins Smith Sr., End of Watch: Dec. 3, 2007 – Officer Smith was responding on his police motorcycle to a traffic crash on May 4, 2001. During the response, a motorist made an illegal turn, and Smith collided with the vehicle. The officer sustained severe head injuries and internal trauma that required extensive and continuous medical care from the date of the crash until his passing. His death was a direct result of injuries sustained in the line of duty. Smith served with excellence for 23 years at the JCPD.
The JCPD Memorial Wall was made possible by donations from the Department’s officers. Deputy Chief Mike Adams oversaw the project, which creates a space that stands as a tribute to the legacy and sacrifice of the Department’s fallen officers.
“It has been a privilege to help develop this tribute,” said Adams. “Seeing it dedicated was incredibly meaningful. It honors our fallen officers and serves as a lasting reminder of the risks our officers face every day.”
“Each name on this memorial represents a life of service and commitment,” added Chief Eric Dougherty. “These officers gave their lives protecting the people of Johnson City. This memorial is for the entire community to remember their service and honor their sacrifice.”
The community may visit the Memorial Wall in the lobby of JCPD headquarters, 601 E. Main St., Monday-Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.
June 2026
Awards dinner celebrates outstanding service
The Johnson City Fire Department (JCFD) celebrated the outstanding achievements of firefighters, emergency personnel, and community members during its third annual Service Awards ceremony, held May 19 at Memorial Park Community Center.
The ceremony highlighted the professionalism and dedication demonstrated daily by members of the JCFD, while also recognizing the impact of other emergency personnel and members of the community during emergency incidents.
The JCFD presented two members of the community with the Fire Chief Harry Gump Award. The award recognizes civilians who, in the face of
life-threatening danger, place the safety and well-being of another person above their own. Mart Breland and Randy Hatley were commended for their actions on Nov. 11 at a house fire on East Pine Street.
Prior to JCFD arrival, Breland and Hatley entered the home, located the occupant, and moved the occupant to safety. A dog was also rescued from the home during the incident. The resident was transferred to an area hospital for treatment of burns and smoke inhalation. Washington County 911 Dispatcher Cynthia Vanhoy received a Letter of Commendation praising her composure and communication, which enabled a prompt and well-coordinated response by emergency personnel.
The Department also honored individual excellence of firefighters across various roles:
• Firefighter of the Year – Lt. Ryan Weaver
• Company Officer of the Year – Lt. Kurt Bennett
• Driver/Engineer of the Year
– William Vanover
• Nozzleman of the Year –Jorge Munoz
The members of Engine 1 – Lt. Sam McLain, Driver/Engineer Tanner Tranbarger, and Firefighters Robbie Simpson, Cody Norby, and Michael Murray – were recognized with a Company Citation for their exceptional response during cardiac arrest emergencies. Letters of Commendation were issued to officers of the Johnson City Police Department for the roles they played during the critical events.
“Our firefighters and emergency personnel consistently answer difficult calls with professionalism, compassion, and courage,” said JCFD Chief David Bell “Tonight’s awards recognize exceptional service within our department, teamwork among first responders, and the extraordinary actions of
Continued on page 8 cojcnews@johnsoncitytn.org.
June 2026
Continued: celebrates outstanding service
citizens who stepped forward to help someone in need.”
“These awards serve as a reminder of the remarkable people who serve this community, both in uniform and our residents,” said City Manager Cathy Ball, who
also served as the keynote speaker for the event. “Their actions reflect the strength, compassion, and character of Johnson City.”
This year’s awards highlighted the strong partnerships between first responders and the community they serve. The JCFD extends its appreciation to all the honorees for their commitment to protecting and serving Johnson City with honesty, empathy, loyalty, and professionalism.
JCLA cohort presents capstone projects
Members of the Johnson City Leadership Academy (JCLA) recently presented their capstone projects to commissioners, leadership, directors, and City staff, marking the completion of another successful cohort. The capstone projects are designed to encourage participants to identify organizational or community challenges and develop practical, forwardthinking solutions. This year’s presentations highlighted four proposals focused on operational efficiency, employee retention, workforce modernization, and community engagement.
Proposal for a 311 NonEmergency Service Center: Marina Arbuckle, Jimmy Baisden, Allen Lark, and Corey Parsons
The Proposal for a 311 NonEmergency Service Center team examined how residents, visitors, and City departments often face confusion when trying to identify the correct contact for non-emergency services or events. The group noted that this can create inefficiencies, increase workload across departments, and impact public trust in timely service delivery. Their recommendation calls for a feasibility assessment and cost analysis for a 311 system that would centralize requests, improve accountability, and organize services the City already provides more efficiently.
Strengthening a RevenueGenerating Community Asset: Danny Arnett, Leigh Ann Fama, Reece Westmoreland, and Benji Whitehead
The Strengthening a RevenueGenerating Community Asset team focused on the future of Freedom Hall and opportunities to maximize its long-term value. Their research concluded that while Freedom Hall remains an important community asset, the current operational model limits revenue growth and competitiveness within the live entertainment industry. Recommendations included enhancing communications and marketing efforts, expanding revenue opportunities, improving event recruitment, and strengthening visitor experience systems. The group also proposed hiring a dedicated revenue and events manager to support long-term growth and increase economic activity connected to the facility.
Employee Retention Strategy Report: Jered Carlson, Kevin Collette, TC Bare, and Tony Haynes
The Employee Retention Strategy Report team explored challenges related to recruiting
Continued on page 10 cojcnews@johnsoncitytn.org.
June
Continued: JCLA cohort presents capstone
and retaining employees in an increasingly competitive labor market. Their presentation emphasized the importance of supporting employees throughout their careers while building on the City’s existing retirement and benefits structure. Recommendations included scaling benefits with tenure, investing in employee development opportunities, and ensuring employees are fairly compensated for additional responsibilities and effort. The team stated these strategies could help
strengthen long-term retention and workforce stability.
Paid Lunch and Reduced Workday Proposal: Josh Collins, Shane Malone, Todd Moody, and Jolene Stallard
The Paid Lunch and Reduced Workday Proposal team examined how the City’s traditional work schedule can affect employee flexibility, morale, recruitment, and retention. Their proposal
recommended restructuring the workday to include a paid lunch while reducing the overall time employees are required to remain on-site. The group noted that modernizing workplace practices could improve employee well-being, strengthen recruitment and retention efforts, and continue maintaining high-quality public service without reducing productivity.
JCLA is designed to identify emerging leaders and support their professional growth within the organization. Congratulations to each member of this cohort for successfully completing the program and presenting thoughtful proposals aimed at improving City operations and services for employees and the community.
Raftelis article highlights City employees
Water and Sewer Services along with Public Works staff members attended a Raftelis Process Improvement and Innovation program in September 2025 at the WSS complex. Recently, Raftelis published an article titled “Build the bench: A guide to developing and retaining mid-level managers” where the author
details the workshop City staff members participated in to build relationships within their Department at the leadership level.
To read the article, click learn more below.
LEARN MORE
Congratulations new hires, promotions, retirements
New Hires - April
Jordan Click - Parks and Recreation
Dakota Pearce - Public Works
David Ingle - Public Works
James Mason - Public Works
Amanda Rose - Planning
Jeremy Blenn - Public Works
Retirements - April
Richard Lockner - Human Resources
Wade Hardin - Fire
Dean Rose - Fleet Management
JCLA volunteers time
On May 20, members of the Johnson City Leadership Academy supported Second Harvest Food Bank of Northeast Tennessee during a dedicated day of service in Kingsport. Participants joined food bank staff in their ongoing effort to provide nutritious meals to residents across the region. Throughout the day, JCLA members prepared more than 2,182 food bags for SNAP recipients.
Promotions - April
Oscar Alvarez Perez - Water and Sewer Services
Jason Bailey - Water and Sewer Services
Austin Babb - Water and Sewer Services
Robert Barnett - Parks and Recreation
Tammy Coen - Transit
Elijah Arias - Water and Sewer Services
Brian Ferguson - Fleet Management
New Hires - May
Joshua Enger - Public Works
Cheryl Sullivan - Transit
Johnathan Rogers - Water and Sewer Services
Cole Burton - Fleet Management
Bobby Banks-Williams - Fleet Management
Woody Rice - Transit
Erica Isaacs - Legal
Philip Self - Transit
Connor McIntosh - Water and Sewer Services
Dalton Cerezo - Water and Sewer Services
James Loveland - Information Technology
Clarence Frye - Public Works
Promotions - May
Tyler Blevins - Fleet Management
Melissa Ingle - Police
Retirements - May
Wallace McCulloch - Public Works