☀️ Today’s Weather
Clear skies. High 84°F, Low 52°F. 0% chance of rain.
😄 Only in Johnson City
Johnson City just spent months surveying residents about data centers, formed a committee, hired a noise consultant, and drafted two separate ordinances — and the first official vote hasn’t even happened yet. Meanwhile, the rest of the country just plugs in and hopes for the best.
🧠 Trivia Q&A
Q: What colorful mural is associated with King Commons?
A: The Wildabout mural, a large and colorful public art installation that has become one of the most recognizable visual landmarks in downtown Johnson City.
🔝 Top Stories
Johnson City Publishes Draft Data Center Zoning Rules
Johnson City has published the draft text for new proposed zoning rules governing data centers in the city. Under the draft rules, data centers would need special approval from the board of zoning appeals, and companies would be required to complete multiple environmental and noise impact studies before, during, and after construction. The rules are set to go before the Johnson City Planning Commission for a first vote on June 9 at 6 p.m.
Sponsored by
Frazier Plumbing
Got a leaky pipe, a water heater on its last legs, or a drain that’s given up? Frazier Plumbing has been solving plumbing problems for Tri-Cities homeowners since 1980 — family-owned, locally operated, and available 24/7 when things go wrong at the worst possible time. No runaround, no oversized crews. Just experienced local plumbers who show up and fix it right.
ETSU and Northeast State Launch ‘Bears to Bucs’ Guaranteed Admissions Program
East Tennessee State University and Northeast State Community College recently signed a new transfer agreement called “Bears to Bucs,” creating a guaranteed admissions pathway for Northeast State students pursuing a bachelor’s degree. Students who earn an associate degree at Northeast State and meet program requirements will be guaranteed admission to ETSU. The program also allows Northeast State students to access ETSU’s library and attend campus events even before they officially transfer.
Downtown Johnson City Parking Lots Getting Improvements
Several downtown Johnson City surface parking lots are scheduled to close for improvements, with work beginning recently. Drivers in the downtown area should expect some changes to parking availability as the project gets underway. Check with the city for the most up-to-date information on which lots are affected and for how long.
Washington County Public Library Budget Puts Department in ‘Survival Mode’
The Washington County Public Library is facing a difficult financial outlook following the county’s upcoming budget process, with library leadership describing the situation as putting the department in “survival mode.” The budget constraints could impact library services and operations for county residents. Visit the source link for the latest details on what this could mean for patrons.
Read more at Johnson City Press
ETSU Researchers Aid in Uncovering Historic Black Settlement
Researchers from East Tennessee State University have contributed to the discovery and documentation of a historic Black settlement in the region. The work highlights ETSU’s ongoing role in uncovering and preserving regional history. See the source link for full details on the settlement and the researchers involved.
Read more at Johnson City Press
🏪 Local Business Spotlight
C&T Junk Haulers
What kinds of jobs do you handle most?
We specialize in property cleanouts and demolitions, and we work with both companies and the public. No job too big or too small.
What happens to everything after you pick it up?
Anything that can be salvaged we donate. We recycle metal and other recyclables to keep landfill materials to a minimum. The rest goes to the landfill.
What do you want people in the Tri-Cities to know about C&T?
We’re a family-owned, licensed, and insured company. We treat every customer like family, we’re affordable to any income in the area, and we do everything we can to make the customer’s life a little easier. We do all the heavy lifting and loading, and we guarantee customer satisfaction.
Reach C&T Junk Haulers at (423) 430-5635.
📅 Upcoming Events
TEDxJohnson City – “Raising Our Appalachian Voices”
Date/Time: Friday, June 26, 2026 at 6:00 PM
Location: ETSU Martin Center for the Arts – ETSU Foundation Grand Hall, 1320 W State of Franklin Rd, Johnson City, TN 37614
TEDxJohnson City is an independent, community-led event highlighting real change agents in Northeast Tennessee and Southwest Virginia. This year’s theme is “Raising our Appalachian Voices,” with speakers selected through a competitive process. The event will also showcase local artists and performers.
More info at ETSU Martin Center
Johnson City Planning Commission Meeting – Data Center Zoning Vote
Date/Time: Tuesday, June 9, 2026 at 6:00 PM
Location: Johnson City, TN (check johnsoncitytn.gov for exact location)
The Johnson City Planning Commission will hold its first vote on the proposed new zoning rules for data centers. The public is encouraged to attend and may have the opportunity to comment through the board of zoning appeals process outlined in the draft rules.
Second Harvest Food Bank of Northeast Tennessee Golf Classic
Date: Listed as a community event on the Johnson City Chamber calendar
Join the Second Harvest Food Bank of Northeast Tennessee for their annual Golf Classic at Blackthorn Country Club, supporting the mission to end food insecurity in Northeast Tennessee. Visit the source link for registration details and additional information.
More info at Second Harvest Food Bank
Business After Hours with Nicewonder Farm and Vineyards
Date/Time: Friday, July 10, 2026 at 4:00–6:00 PM
Location: Nicewonder Farm & Vineyards
The Johnson City Chamber and regional Chamber partners are hosting an evening of networking at Nicewonder Farm & Vineyards. Light refreshments will be provided and all guests will receive one complimentary drink ticket. Registration is required.
Register at Johnson City Chamber
🤝 Community Partners
