The city has made a decisive move in its leadership for the Water and Sewer Services (WSS) Department. Jon Lane, who has served as assistant director for six years, is set to take the reins from Tom Witherspoon, who is stepping down after an impressive 44-year tenure. Lane, with his civil engineering background and wealth of experience in the department, is set to officially begin his duties as director on Nov. 7, an announcement confirmed by city administration.
Graduating with a civil engineering degree from the University of Tennessee and later earning a master's degree from North Carolina State University, Lane is also equipped with a Professional Engineer’s license in Tennessee. According to a statement obtained by Johnson City Tennessee, Lane comes with a mission to efficiently lead nearly 190 employees while managing an annual budget of $46 million. His past role had him to actively participate in the WSS Capital Improvements Plan, shouldering the project oversight from planning and design to construction.
City Manager Cathy Ball expressed her confidence in Lane’s leadership abilities and his deep understanding of the Water and Sewer Services system. "Jon has exceptional leadership capabilities and an impressive technical understanding of the Water and Sewer Services system," Ball told Johnson City Tennessee.
Lane shared his sentiments on the appointment, expressing honor in being chosen to guide the department forward. “I’m honored to be entrusted with leading the Department,” Lane said in a statement to Johnson City Tennessee. Witherspoon also conveyed his approval of Lane's new role, stating, "Jon has the experience and dedication to lead the Department in the coming years. I know he will do an outstanding job for the WSS team and people of Johnson City." As Lane assumes his new position, he will oversee operations that span two water treatment plants, three wastewater treatment plants, and an extensive network of water and sewer lines.
Demonstrating his capability through various infrastructure projects, Lane has been the driving force behind significant capital improvement endeavors for the city. These projects include the construction of a new Water and Sewer Services Complex, a substantial pipe replacement for Lower Brush Creek, and upgrades to the Brush Creek Wastewater Treatment Aeration system, among others. His past successes, as listed by the city's statement, showcase the kind of impact and direction Lane is expected to continue bringing to the WSS Department.
