Johnson City's Water and Sewer Services Department (WSS) received significant recognition at the recent City Commission meeting. Mayor John Hunter and city commissioners honored the WSS staff for their exceptional work in wastewater treatment, which has recently earned them six prestigious awards from industry organizations. According to details from a city announcement, the WSS was specifically applauded for their achievements in regulatory compliance and environmental stewardship.
During the lively celebration, four WSS staff members, Aaron Mullins, Michael Rocker, Nick Street, and Mark Sweigart, were among those honored. Also commended for their behind-the-scenes contribution were Water-Wastewater Maintenance Supervisor Tim Proffitt, responsible for plant maintenance and repair activities, and Assistant Director of Operations Benji Whitehead, tasked with ensuring plant reliability. As the city's press release reported, Mayor Hunter expressed the city's fortune "to have such a dedicated team protecting our natural resources and environment."
Noteworthy, too, was the acknowledgment of Jon Lane, an upcoming leader in the water industry, who graduated from the Water Professionals Leadership Academy. With a forthcoming role as director on the horizon, the department is poised to continue its exceptional trajectory under Lane's guidance, following the retirement of long-standing Director Tom Witherspoon. Witherspoon conveyed his pride in the department’s progress and lauded Lane, saying, per Johnson City, "With Jon’s leadership and the strength of our team, I know the future of WSS is in excellent hands."
Additionally, Assistant Superintendent Tracy Humphrey received the Golden Manhole Award, a first for a Johnson City WSS employee. Commended for reducing system overflows significantly, Humphrey's career, spanning more than three decades, reflects a steadfast commitment to public service and environmental responsibility.
