Johnson City Fire Chief resigning, interim chief to take over Jan. 4

Johnson City Fire Chief James Stables is leaving his post at the first of the year.

City Manager Pete Petersen confirmed that Stables would resign on Jan. 1, and city administrative district chief David Bell will assume the role of interim chief on Jan. 4. Petersen said in a statement that during Stables tenure, he has helped lead tremendous improvements and stability to the fire department with educational opportunities, increased training, and restructuring.

Johnson City officials will advertise the job vacancy within the next few weeks, and hopes to have a new permanent fire chief by March.