Chattanooga Appoints Jerramy Wood as New Public Works Administrator

Chattanooga Welcomes New Public Works Administrator

In the bustling city of Chattanooga, exciting changes are on the horizon within the public works department. Mayor Tim Kelly has officially announced the selection of Jerramy “Jay” Wood as the new public works administrator, filling the shoes of Ross Pitcairn, who recently stepped down after a brief tenure. This move highlights the city’s commitment to efficient and responsive governance under the “One Chattanooga” initiative.

Familiar Face Takes the Helm

Prior to his new role, Wood has been serving as the interim administrator, which has allowed him to get a feel for the challenges and opportunities that come with the position. Before stepping up as interim, Jay Wood was the deputy administrator of city wastewater systems, showcasing his technical expertise in critical infrastructure.

Mayor Kelly expressed his confidence in Wood’s abilities, stating, “Jerramy was a prior finalist for this position, so I have full confidence in his ability to step in as an effective leader for Public Works, ensuring we advance our One Chattanooga goal of efficient and responsive local government.” This sentiment resonates across the city, as residents are eager for steady leadership in public works.

Next Steps for Approval

The nomination is expected to go before the City Council next Tuesday, marking a pivotal point as Wood prepares to officially take on the responsibilities of this role. Residents are hopeful that his leadership will bring about positive changes in public works operations, improving services and responsiveness in their daily lives.

Other Developments in Chattanooga

In addition to the changes within public works, there are other important discussions happening within the city. The Circuit Court Clerk, Larry Henry, recently addressed the County Commission, requesting an increase in juror pay from $10 per day to $20 per day. This request has gained traction with support from multiple judges at the courthouse, emphasizing the importance of compensating jurors fairly for their time and service to the justice system.

This potential pay raise for jurors reflects a broader conversation around the value of civic duty and the costs that can come with participating in legal proceedings.

School Safety Concerns

Tyner Middle School, a student was taken into custody after various students reported hearing threatening remarks made by another student. This occurred around 1 p.m. on Wednesday and spurred immediate action from the School Resource Deputy assigned to the school. The safety of students remains a top priority, and these incidents prompt important discussions about school safety measures and the support systems in place for students.

Fire Incident in Hixson

On Wednesday morning, an incident occurred in Hixson when the Chattanooga Fire Department responded to a fire at approximately 11:46 a.m.. One person was transported to the hospital with injuries resulting from the fire. Emergency responders acted quickly and efficiently, showcasing the bravery and dedication of local service personnel who work hard to ensure the safety of the community.

Conclusion

As Chattanooga moves forward, the appointment of Jerramy Wood as public works administrator, alongside growing conversations about juror pay, school safety, and effective emergency response, marks an exciting time for the city. Residents are encouraged to stay engaged and informed as these developments unfold, fostering a sense of community and collaboration that truly embodies the spirit of Chattanooga.