News Summary
Jermaine Freeman, Chattanooga’s Chief of Staff, has announced his departure after nearly nine years of service. Effective May 1, he plans to transition to the private sector. During his tenure, Freeman played a significant role in various city projects and initiatives, including tax incentive modifications, The Bend development, and the new Chattanooga Lookouts stadium. Freeman expresses pride in his service and will support a smooth transition for his successor, while continuing to champion Mayor Tim Kelly’s initiatives.
Chattanooga’s Chief of Staff Jermaine Freeman Announces Departure
Exciting changes are on the horizon for the city of Chattanooga! After almost nine incredible years of dedicated service, Jermaine Freeman, who currently holds the position of chief of staff to Mayor Tim Kelly, is set to step away from his role effective May 1. It seems Freeman is ready to explore new avenues and is planning to shift gears toward opportunities in the private sector. This announcement, which was shared via an email to City Hall staff on April 3, marks a significant moment in Chattanooga’s local government landscape.
A Tenure of Service
Freeman’s journey in the city government began back in 2016. Since then, he has held several important roles, including serving as senior adviser for economic opportunities, deputy chief of staff, director of economic development programs, and civic engagement coordinator. His extensive experience laid a solid foundation for his eventual promotion to chief of staff in December 2023, after he served as interim chief following the departure of Joda Thongnopnua.
During his nearly 9 years of service, Freeman has been a crucial player in many significant projects and initiatives that have shaped Chattanooga. Some key collaborations include proposals to modify local tax incentive approval processes, the development of The Bend, and securing financing for the new stadium for the Chattanooga Lookouts. These projects showcase not only his expertise but also his commitment to enhancing the city and the lives of those who reside there.
Looking Towards the Future
Freeman is saying goodbye to his role with a sense of fulfillment. Being part of Chattanooga’s civic development has been a true honor and blessing for him. As he prepares to embark on this new chapter, his annual salary while serving as chief of staff has been reported to be around $160,600, reflecting his critical contributions to the city’s governance and initiatives.
Freeman holds an MBA from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, as well as a bachelor’s degree from Morehouse College, adding to his wealth of knowledge and expertise in economic development and civic engagement. His educational background has undoubtedly provided him with the essential skills needed to address the challenges faced by modern cities.
Support for Mayor Tim Kelly
Even as he prepares to transition away from city government, Freeman has made it clear that he remains a steadfast supporter of Mayor Kelly’s initiatives, particularly the ambitious One Chattanooga plan. This plan aims to unite the community and improve quality of life, ensuring that Chattanooga continues on its upward trajectory.
Ensuring a Smooth Transition
As Freeman prepares to step down, he has committed to ensuring a smooth transition for his successor. He is expected to lend his support to facilitate the changeover during the month leading up to his departure, ensuring that all ongoing projects and initiatives remain on track and that the city’s government continues functioning efficiently.
Chattanooga has a lot to look forward to, and while Freeman’s departure marks the end of an era, it also opens doors to new possibilities—for him, the city, and the community. As he moves on to explore what lies ahead, the impact of his dedication and hard work will undoubtedly continue to benefit Chattanooga for years to come. This is just the beginning of a new chapter for Freeman, and we can’t wait to see what he accomplishes next!
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Additional Resources
- Times Free Press: Chattanooga Mayor’s Chief of Staff to Depart in May
- Local 3 News: Tax District for Proposed Chattanooga Lookouts Stadium
- Times Free Press: Chattanooga Mayor Names Jermaine Freeman Chief of
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Chattanooga
- Google Search: Chattanooga Mayor Tim Kelly
