CHIEF BUILDING OFFICIAL STARTS TODAY
Johnson City leadership has appointed Joseph Strong as the City’s new chief building official. In this role, Strong will oversee the Building Services Department’s permitting and inspection services, supervise all City trades inspectors, and lead the plans review process. He will also be responsible for inspecting existing buildings, reviewing plans for compliance with City codes and ordinances, and investigating complaints.
“I am a problem-solver who works well with everyone from contractors to property owners to outside agencies,” said Strong. “This role will be challenging, but I look forward to serving the people of Johnson City as their chief building official.”
Strong served as a deputy state fire marshal for the past 20 years. There, he developed extensive expertise in building, fire, and property maintenance codes, as well as a deep understanding of the National Fire Protection Association, International Building Code, and International Code Council standards.
“Joseph joins the City with a comprehensive background and wealth of experience that make him the ideal chief building official during this period of significant growth,” said Building Services Director Brian Ross. “I am grateful that he is joining our team and look forward to working alongside him.”
FIRE DEPARTMENT APPOINTMENT OF FIRE MARSHAL
The Johnson City Fire Department (JCFD) is excited to announce the appointment of Steve Alexander as its new fire marshal. Alexander has served as interim fire marshal since mid-September.
Alexander’s background is in fire suppression. He has served our community as a firefighter, driver/engineer, lieutenant, and district chief with the Johnson City Fire Department for 22 years.
“Fire prevention looks very different from fire suppression, but both are essential to keeping Johnson City safe,” said Alexander. “I am excited to take on the challenges of this role and the opportunity to continue serving our community.”
As fire marshal, Alexander will oversee the JCFD’s Fire Prevention Division and its four fire prevention officers. Some of the Division’s tasks include fire code enforcement, building inspections, fire investigations, and community risk reduction programs.
“This position is about more than inspections and investigations,” added Alexander. “It’s about relationships, trust, and education. My goals are to work hand-in-hand with all our stakeholders to keep Johnson City safe and to ensure our team has the tools and the training to serve the public at the highest standard.”
Prior to being hired at the JCFD, Alexander served in the U.S. Navy as an avionics technician. He is currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Public Administration at Liberty University.
“Fire Marshal Alexander has shown exceptional dedication to the Johnson City Fire Department and the community,” said JCFD Chief David Bell. “He understands that prevention is the front line of public safety. His knowledge and experience will help us to continue to serve Johnson City with excellence.”
2026 ROUNDTABLE DATES
2/20/26 4/17/26
6/19/26 8/21/26 10/16/26
Roundtables take place at 8 a.m. at the Langston Centre (315 Elm. St.) over light breakfast. Each one includes updates from City staff and an education component. All roundtables are open to the public.
The overall goal of JC Builds is to identify and correct obstacles to successful development in Johnson City. JC Builds is a coordinated initiative built around three key efforts: JC Builds Task Force, roundtables, and internal process improvements.
Learn more at johnsoncitytn.org/jcbuilds
