City manager names John Ward as Cookeville assistant city manager/community development director

City Manager Mills announced at the Aug. 6 council meeting that John Ward has agreed to serve as Cookeville's first assistant city manager and community development director in a "slash" role. Mills said the position is intended to ensure continuity and to prepare someone to serve as interim city manager when he steps down; the appointee will retain existing duties while taking on additional responsibilities and will receive compensation for those added duties. "So the person that I'm appointing is the city's 1st assistant city manager. He's been with the city for 10 years... and I'm pleased to announce that mister John Ward has agreed to serve as assistant city manager slash community development director," Mills said.

Mills emphasized the role is not a new full‑time position but a hybrid assignment intended to be frugal with tax dollars; no council vote was required at the meeting for the appointment. The announcement also included recognition of departing council members Lauren and Eric for their service; staff thanked them and highlighted accomplishments during their terms.