The Oak Ridge North City Council appointed Heather Neeley as the city’s newest city manager Dec. 16. The Council unanimously approved Neeley’s appointment following a closed executive session.
Neeley first joined Oak Ridge North’s staff in 2013 as the city secretary and later held the positions of director of economic development and assistant city manager. She was appointed as the city’s interim manager in late July after the dismissal of former City Manager Richard Derr.
“I’m grateful to the City Council for the opportunity to continue to serve our residents. In my time with the city and with the roles I’ve held, I’ve continued to learn more and more about the citizens and our city, and I’m ready for the challenges ahead of me,” Neeley said in an email.
“My goals for the city continue to be increasing economic development to help mitigate the property tax increase on residents in order for sales tax to help fund [needed] infrastructure projects and city services,” Neeley said. “I grew up here and hope to continue to help grow the economy while still keeping the small community feel.”
Mayor Paul Bond said he supported the council's unanimous decision, and credited Neeley's work in the interim manager role over the previous several months.
"Heather has succeeded in every position she has held at the city. She is a great resource and understands the immediate needs of the city for both short-term and long-term goals," Bond said in an email. "She understands the day-to-day mechanics of running the city, both internally and externally. Council and I work very well with Heather and it's been a seamless transition for Council, the city, and staff."
Oak Ridge North operates under the city manager form of government, meaning the city manager oversees most city business. In Oak Ridge North, the city manager’s responsibilities range from attending council meetings and supervising city departments to budget planning and personnel decisions. Once appointed, the city manager serves an indefinite term at the will of the council.
