On March 3, 2026, The Sycamore Institute will host the Regional Housing Summit: Tri-Cities at the Langston Centre in Johnson City.   The First Tennessee Development District (FTDD) is excited to attend this summit and engage in meaningful dialogue that can strengthen housing outcomes across our region. As an organization committed to supporting local governments and communities in Northeast Tennessee, FTDD recognizes the importance of collaborative, data-driven conversations

During her remarkable 46 years of service to the First Tennessee Area Agency on Aging and Disability (FTAAAD), including 29 years as its director, Kathy Whitaker set a standard of leadership, compassion, and unwavering advocacy for older adults in Northeast Tennessee. Her career was defined by a deep commitment to ensuring that seniors had access to essential services, resources, and opportunities to age with dignity and independence. Through her tireless efforts, Kathy made

Mayor Joe Grandy (Washington Co.), Mayor Larry Potter (Johnson Co.), Gov. Bill Lee, Mayor Patty Woodby (Carter Co.), Mayor Rob Mathis (Cocke Co.), Mayor Kevin Morrison (Greene Co.) and Mayor Richard Venable (Sullivan Co.) FTDD Executive Director Mike Harrison joined county mayors from across the region in Nashville last week to meet with Governor Bill Lee and other state elected officials to discuss key state programs, regional priorities, and ongoing collaboration between lo