Chattanooga Mayor Tim Kelly and County Mayor Weston Wamp will name a new chairman for the Planning Commission, replacing Ethan Collier, who has held the position since 2014.

Collier was originally selected for the role by former County Mayor Jim Coppinger and former Chattanooga Mayor Andy Berke. Collier is also a prominent local developer.

County Mayor Wamp stated that a change in leadership is necessary. Wamp said that a new chair would be able to guide the commission impartially. "Given the extreme frustration with growth and infrastructure issues, we need a Planning Commission chair who is independent of the construction industry and can guide the planning commission through growth related discussions impartially with respect for everyone," Wamp said.

The mayors have not yet announced the identity of the incoming chairman. The Planning Commission oversees development regulations and infrastructure planning in the region. Collier's tenure has spanned over a decade under multiple administrations. Local officials have frequently addressed concerns regarding growth management during public meetings. The appointment requires coordination between city and county leadership. Once named, the new chairman will assume duties immediately. The commission consists of members appointed by various local government bodies.