BRADY FLANIGANStaff Writer

On Jan. 13, the Board of Mayor and Aldermen approved Item 25-05 in a unanimous 7-0 vote, appointing Nick Kimbro as Tullahoma’s new Director of Safety and Codes Compliance.

This decision will split the Planning and Codes Department into two new individual departments: the Department of Planning and Development, which will be led by former Planning and Codes Director Charles Rush, and the Department of Safety and Codes Compliance, which will be led by Tullahoma’s Fire Marshal, Nick Kimbro. The decision was made in response to increasing strain on the former department due to the city’s growth. 

Planning and Development Director Charles Rush will handle the coordination of new city projects, while Safety and Codes Compliance Director Nick Kimbro will focus his attention on fire safety, building inspections, and code administration. The objective is to improve efficiency and customer satisfaction without stretching the former department too thin.  

Kimbro’s resume made him an easy pick. With more than 18 years in city service, he’s worn a lot of hats, helmets perhaps—Deputy Fire Marshal, City Fire Marshal, and Assistant Director of Codes, to list a few. He’s also armed with certifications in fire safety, building codes, hazardous materials, and more. In short, he’s a guy fit for the job.

For now, the department will run on its existing budget, with plans to propose separate budgets for Planning and Codes in 2026-2027. It’s a practical decision for a city navigating growth while striving to keep its balance.