By Martha Woodward

To help with the requirements in his office, Phil Ballard has added Jim Weaver as the Director of External Operations.

"This is a position that is new as defined by responsibilities and leadership expectations," said Ballard.  "However, we had several openings due to retirements and transitions and in another sense this is a modified position. This had no effect on the budget and I actually have a few less employees than when I took office. The position is still being evaluated by Knox County HR as to the salary ranges with other comparable counties. However, we know those mid and upper ranges will exceed his salary of approximately $73,000."

Ballard also said he thinks Weaver is the best hire in the state with his education, experience and certifications.

Weaver ended his 37 years with the State where he worked on over 41 East Tennessee counties and their reappraisal programs. He is a charter member of the Tennessee Chapter of the IAAO (International Association of Assessing Officers). 

He has all the level five (highest level) certifications including the coveted CAE (Certified Assessment Evaluator).  He also has the level five AAS (Assessment Administration Specialist) both under the IAAO education programs. This basically means he has achieved the highest level of both outside and inside (administrative) management and education practices coupled with years of experience beginning in the field.  

According to Ballard, "Jim is the most valuable member of my team or any team. I am working hard to move this office forward in terms of technology, training, certifications and other areas of needed improvements. He will add insight, support and direction to my goals and vision as he has seen the best of each office from the other counties across the State."

David Sherrill, the current Director of Property Assessments for the State, described Jim as "very unique in his abilities and training." Weaver brings many skills to this job.

Ballard said he is also hoping to find the money to buy computers for his staff members who do not have one at their desks.

He is also providing much needed, on-going, advanced training. He wants as many of his staff members to seek certification as possible.