July 7, 2023

Johnson City announces new department leaders

Assistant City Manager Steve Willis recently announced promotions and a new hire to lead City departments.

April Norris, Parks and Recreation, and Will Righter, Planning and Development Services, were promoted to directors of their departments effective July 1. Both have held the positions in an interim capacity since February.

“April and Will are tremendous assets to the City who contribute a wealth of experience and knowledge,” said Willis. “They are committed to teambuilding, which is something our administration feels is important in a strong leader.”

On July 3, David Eidson became Information Technology director. In this role, Eidson and the IT Department will support City staff by providing technological solutions to business operations.

“With over 30 years of IT experience, we feel confident David can lead the IT Department with creative and innovative solutions,” said Willis. “Hiring a skillful leader like David who can keep pace with technology was important as we considered applicants.”

April Norris was named Parks and Recreation director. Norris joined the City in October 2021 as assistant director for Parks and Recreation. Previously, she worked for eight years with the City of Bristol in human resources, risk management, purchasing, and parks and recreation.

Norris holds both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in business administration from King University.

Will Righter was named Planning and Development Services director. Righter joined the City in May 2018 as a planner. He has held positions as planner II and development coordinator. Prior to joining the City, Righter worked in supervisory roles in manufacturing for nine years.

Righter served as a Field Artillery Capt. in the U.S. Army. Additionally, he earned a bachelor’s degree and two master’s degrees from East Tennessee State University.

David Eidson was named Information Technology director. Eidson has over 30 years of IT experience. For the past 12 years, he served as division IT director for Taylor Corporation.

Eidson earned a bachelor’s degree in physics/math from Longwood University and attended the Georgia Institute of Technology for computer engineering.

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