Mayor Bill Haslam announced today that Dave Hill has been named chief operating officer for the city of Knoxville.

In this position, Hill will focus on strategic planning and implementation, with emphasis on issues that make city government more efficient and accountable to taxpayers. Hill will work directly with the Mayor and be responsible for coordinating multi-departmental projects in a smooth, decisive and timely manner. He will work with the Mayor and other city department heads to establish priorities and strategies for tackling these projects.

Mayor Haslam said he is confident that adding this position will pay off in greater efficiencies, which translates into saving money for taxpayers.

"We have to change the way we do business in government and we have to make sure we're getting the most out of every taxpayer dollar," Mayor Haslam said. "I'm confident Dave will provide the leadership to do this."

Mayor Haslam noted the administration has developed several tools, including a performance measurement system, that will provide new data and information regarding the city's delivery of services.

Hill will support departments in using these new tools to develop strategies to make efficiency gains and service improvements.

In addition, Hill will also help to coordinate a general downtown revitalization strategy including the Crandall Arambula plan.

"I appreciate Mayor Haslam's confidence and I'm delighted to serve as a member of the strong and talented team he has put together," said Hill. "I've spent my entire career in public service and this is an exciting opportunity for me to serve this community."

Hill will join the Mayor's staff immediately. He will continue to serve as interim executive director of the Metropolitan Planning Commission until his replacement is selected.

"David has done an excellent job for MPC and we're excited that he has this opportunity to make a significant contribution to the city of Knoxville working for Mayor Haslam," said Metropolitan Planning Commission Chairwoman Susan Brown. "The commission and the staff look forward to working with him in his new role."

Hill has been executive director of the Metropolitan Planning Commission since October 2003. Previously, he served as assistant city manager for the city of Denton, Texas.