IN THIS EDITION Page 2
Main Street Director Parks and Recreation
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Bryan Bentley Child Safety Restraint
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Police Department Freedom Hall
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MLK Events
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Surprise Engagement New Hires
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Promotions, Retirements Shout Outs
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Department Highlights
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.
January 2024
Ceremony pays respect to the past
Recently, the Johnson City Fire Department officially christened two new fire engines into service with pushin ceremonies. The ceremonies paid tribute to the period when the JCFD operated with horse-drawn fire equipment. Horses were not able to back the apparatus into the fire station, so firefighters pushed the equipment into place. With the help of City leaders, firefighters carried on that tradition at Stations 3 and 4. Engines 3 and 4 arrived in Johnson City on Nov. 17. The engines went through an extensive onboarding process which included installation of essential equipment. Station 3
firefighters began responding to calls with Engine 3 on Dec. 7. Engine 4 was put into service on Dec. 8 by firefighters at Station 4. “These new engines are providing the citizens of Johnson City with state-ofthe-art fire protection,” said JCFD Chief David Bell. “They are also providing safer and more efficient operations for our firefighters.” The engines were obtained through a Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation Volkswagen Diesel Settlement grant with a City match. The total cost for both engines was $1,018,094.
NEWSLINK January 2024 Jones undertakes Main Street Program for City The Main Street Program has moved from the Johnson City Development Authority (JCDA) to the City’s Communications and Marketing Department. Lindsey Jones has assumed the role of Main Street Director. She will report directly to Public Affairs Director Keisha Shoun and to the Downtown Johnson City Foundation Board of Directors. While this role is new to the City, it is not a new position for Lindsey. In her previous work with the JCDA, she served for three years in a
marketing capacity and as Deputy Director of the Main Street Program, fostering interest in downtown events and business development all while maintaining friendly associations with a vast group of stakeholders. The Main Street Program will support the City’s downtown district through promotion and social engagement with the goal of growing a healthy tax base for the benefit of all of Johnson City. We wish Lindsey well in her new position.
Yearslong work culminates in robust masterplan The Parks and Recreation Advisory Board approved the Parks and Recreation 10-Year Comprehensive Master Plan
on Oct. 26, followed by City and Recreation planning for Commission approval on Jan. 4. the next 10 years. The project team consisted Themes that emerged through of City staff, community this robust data collection members and stakeholders and discussion included who worked on developing this Connectivity, Sustainability, plan over the past year and a Accessibility, and Innovation. half. Research was gathered from a myriad of sources including census data analysis, surveys, previous assessments, community input meetings, and focus groups. This road map will guide Parks
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NEWSLINK January 2024 PGA recognizes Bentley: The best by par Parks and Recreation Golf Manager Bryan Bentley was recognized with the 2023 Tri-Cities PGA Chapter Golf Professional of the Year award. Bryan received this acknowledgment from the Professional Golf Association (PGA) after demonstrating excellence in advancing the game of golf and by raising standards within the profession. At Pine Oaks Golf Course, Bryan is highly regarded for his service to the
golfers’ community and for his sport advocacy. Award winners must match specific PGA criteria. Bryan received favorable marks for his professionalism, leadership, and service. In addition, the PGA considered the Pine Oaks Golf Course and its overall performance in providing educational and member opportunities when recognizing Bryan with this award.
Proper child passenger seat use saves lives The Johnson City Fire Department and Niswonger Children’s Hospital are offering a child passenger safety (CPS) seat check on Jan. 29 from 2-6 p.m. at Fire Station #9, 105 Carroll Creek Road. With the assistance of a CPS technician, parents or guardians will receive instruction on proper installation of car seats, boosters, and seat belts which can protect children from serious injuries or fatality. For 47 years, Tennessee has led the way in child restraint initiatives. Tennessee’s Child Passenger Protection Act passed in 1977 with the law taking effect in 1978. This was the first type of CPS state legislation of its kind. Leaders in Tennessee paved the way for sweeping reform that ultimately led to all 50 states adopting child restraint laws by 1985. Local Tennessee first responders carry
forward the importance of proper safety restraint with their participation in CPS checks. Parents, caregivers or guardians who cannot attend the Jan. 29 event are encouraged to visit any Johnson City fire station or the Police Department to gain valuable instruction on child safety restraint.
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NEWSLINK January 2024 Police Department promotes six to sergeant FREEDOM HALL ETSU BASKETBALL ETSU vs. Chattanooga Jan. 21 at 3 p.m. ETSU vs. Samford Jan. 27 at 4 p.m. ETSU Women vs. Wofford Feb. 3 at 1:30 p.m. ETSU Men vs. Citadel Feb. 3 at 4 p.m.
Johnson City Police Chief Billy Church recently announced multiple promotions within the department. Brandon Carr, Justin Henard, Justin Jenkins, Adam Lunceford, Will Saulsbury, and Mark Williams were promoted to the rank of sergeant during a ceremony held on Dec. 18. “I am proud to announce the promotions of these dedicated officers,” said Chief Church. “Their commitment to serving our community and upholding the values of our department earned them this well-deserved recognition. As they take on their new roles and responsibilities, I know that they will continue to lead by example and inspire others
with their professionalism and integrity.”
ETSU vs. Wofford Feb. 7 at 7 p.m. ETSU vs. Furman Feb. 10 at 6 p.m.
In addition, Chief Church introduced the Police Department’s newest officers at a swearing-in ceremony the same day. David Arendse, Terry Atkinson, Jacob Colvin, Eugene Diaz III, Matthew Hoyt, Shawn Jordan, Jacob Rice, and Dennis Skowronski took their oaths in front of friends, family and Police personnel in the Commission Chambers at City Hall. The probationary police officers will complete a nine-week academy then transition to field training.
ETSU vs. VMI Feb. 21 at 7 p.m. ETSU vs. UNCG March 2 at 4 p.m.
For the box office, call 423.461.4884.
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NEWSLINK January 2024 Events will honor the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. Movement through storytelling and music. Where: Carver Recreation Center, 322 W. Watauga Ave. When: Monday Jan. 15, 9 a.m.noon.
Unity Program and Walk
Multiple events will be held throughout January to celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. Day, which is observed on Monday, Jan. 15. All events are free unless noted otherwise.
Prayer Breakfast What: An annual, interfaith event that speaks to Dr. King and his legacy. Guest speaker: Dr. Harold Middlebrook Where: Wesley Memorial United Methodist Church, 225 Princeton Road When: Saturday, Jan. 13, beginning at 8:30 a.m. Cost: Tickets are $20 per person and may be purchased the day of the event. Proceeds support Carver Recreation Center’s annual youth trip to a Civil Rights Movement historic site.
Storytelling Event What: Annual event that exposes youth (ages 6-12) to Dr. King and the Civil Rights
What: A brief ceremony will culminate with a unity walk (less than 2 miles). Where: Carver Recreation Center, 322 W. Watauga Ave. When: Monday, Jan. 15, Noon
Blood Drive What: In honor of those who shed blood for others by giving blood to help others. Where: Carver Recreation Center, 322 W. Watauga Ave. When: Monday, Jan. 15, 1-6 p.m.
Community Info. Session What: The information session will focus on Medicaid expansion. Where: Carver Recreation Center, 322 W. Watauga Ave. When: Monday, Jan. 15, 1-3 p.m.
Community Dinner What: Annual event that celebrates Dr. King’s legacy as well as honors individuals who make the community special. Where: Carver Recreation Center, 322 W. Watauga Ave. When: Monday, Jan. 15, 6-8 p.m. What: Countywide food drive supporting Good Samaritan
Food Drive Ministries, Jonesborough Ministerial Alliance Food Pantries Where: Carver Recreation Center, 322 W. Watauga Ave.; Langston Centre, 315 Elm St.; McKinney Center, 103 Franklin Ave.; Good Samaritan Ministries, 100 N. Roan St. When: Through Monday, Jan. 15
Vincent Dial Student Art What: Art on display will feature students from Washington County and Johnson City Schools. The artwork will be inspired by Dr. King and the Civil Rights Movement. Where: McKinney Center, 103 Franklin Ave., Jonesborough Public Reception: Thursday, Jan. 18, 6-8 p.m. When: Jan. 15-19 2024 Event: The Importance of MLK to the Latino/a Community What: Dr. Paul Ortiz teaches at the University of Florida. His area of research is African American and Latino/a history in the United States. He will explain the multicultural elements of the modern Civil Rights Movement. Where: Langston Centre, 315 Elm St. When: Thursday, Jan. 25, 7 p.m.
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NEWSLINK January 2024 Hallmark moment surprises Peyton Voirin Amid the brightly lit trees and holiday decorations, a crowd celebrating New Year’s Day gathered to view Candy Land Christmas. Among the spectators was Peyton
Voirin, planner for Parks and Recreation, and her boyfriend, Brock. During the festivities, Brock dropped to one knee and asked Peyton to marry him. She said, “yes!” Now, Candy Land Christmas and New Year’s Day are a cherished memory for the couple. The magic of Candy Land Christmas is that it brings families and friends together to create lasting memories. Forever, this heartwarming proposal will be associated with the joy and merriment of the holiday season. Peyton and Brock, we wish you a long and happy life together.
A very cold forecast is predicted for next week. Check the following to protect your home today! • • • • • • •
Eliminate drafts Insulate pipes Protect your meter Leave faucet running Open cabinet doors to expose pipes Locate shut-off valve Drain pipes if leaving town
For more information about water pipe maintenance, contact Water and Sewer Services at 423-461-1645. For service after business hours or on weekends and holidays, call 423-461-1643.
New Hires - December David Arendse - Police
Mollie Murray - Transit
Terry Atkinson - Police
Christopher Clark - Public Works
Jacob Colvin - Police
Angela Nichols - Parks & Recreation
Eugene Diaz III - Police
Jeremy Presley - Parks & Recreation
Shawn Jordan - Police
Chad Sams - Information Technology
Jacob Rice - Police
Mark Myers - Transit
Dennis Skowronski - Police
Brendon DeMuth - Water & Sewer
David Hicks - Public Works
Charlton Foster - Facilities
Kimberly Salgado - Planning & Development
Theresa White - Public Works
Louis Champagne - Transit
Brian Woody - Public Works
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NEWSLINK January 2024 Promotions - December
WSS Shoutout!
Anna Baker - Public Works Christiane Kyker - Juvenile Court Aaron Thornburg - Water & Sewer Jacob Dunn - Water & Sewer Rebecca Patsel - Police Calvin Dugger - Parks & Recreation Rex Fink - Planning & Development Services
Mr. Ralph Sparks at 804 Ridgefield Drive called to thank Water and Sewer Services employees for their professionalism. Mr. Sparks specifically mentions work performed by Michael GaylorLayton and Johnnie Lacey in his message of thanks.
William Bowers - Parks & Recreation Adam Lunceford - Police Mark Williams - Police Brandon Carr - Police William Saulsbury - Police Jeff Jenkins - Police Justin Henard - Police
Retirements - December Kenneth Arrowood (30) - Water & Sewer Donald Shepard (26) - Police Larry Renfro (10) - Transit
2024 CITY-OBSERVED HOLIDAYS Jan. 1 – New Year’s Day Holiday Jan. 15 - Martin Luther King Jr. Day May 27 - Memorial Day July 4 - Independence Day Sept. 2 - Labor Day Nov. 28, 29 - Thanksgiving Holiday Dec. 24, 25 – Christmas Holiday
WSS Shoutout! Chief Wasterwater Plant Operator Aaron Mullins and Wastewater Operator III Chris Montgomery received praise from new Johnson City residents, Bob and Sharon Fuller, following a Water and Sewer Services tour. Mr. Fuller wrote, “Sharon and I want to thank you for the wonderful and educational tour that the two of you gave us yesterday afternoon. It was a real treat.” He continues, “This was exactly the type of detailed overview that we were looking forward to and the two of you couldn’t have done a better job. We saw the entire process from intake to outflow and all the pieces in between. We now have a much greater appreciation for all the work (and magic) that you and your team perform, and wish that more city residents would understand all that is involved.” Thank you, Aaron and Chris, for your excellent customer service.
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NEWSLINK January 2024 Budget - FY 25 The process to develop the City’s fiscal year budget is underway. Departmental budgets will soon be prepared and each department will review their goals, objectives and needs for the next fiscal year in work sessions with the city manager, the assistant city managers and budget staff. Department directors are encouraged to begin preparing materials for review. Email Director of Budget and Performance Management Dustin Thompson at dbthompson@ johnsoncitytn.org with questions about the budget.
Human Resources - Health Assessment The health assessment began Jan 1, 2024 and runs through Nov. 29, 2024. Currently, all City staff enrolled in the health insurance plan are receiving discounted premiums. To maintain the discounted rate, employees must complete the health assessment by Nov. 29, 2024.
Purchasing - Purchase Order Delays There are some checkpoints that can cause delay to your purchase order. • Expired quotes will require a new quote. • If the Free on Board (FOB) terms are not FOB Delivered/Destination – we will contact the vendor to see if the terms can be changed. • Services performed for the City will require approved vendor insurance. • Terms and conditions will have to be reviewed and possibly negotiated with vendor. All of the above items take time to work through so plan ahead.
Communications & Marketing - Newsletter Encourage your neighbors to subscribe to KNOW. ALL. OUT., a seasonal e-newsletter delivered right to email inboxes. This newsletter will provide the community with information on the many City services and opportunities available to every citizen. Subscribe here: www.JohnsonCityTN.org/KnowAllOut
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