JOHNSON CITY, Tenn. (WJHL) — Johnson City Police Chief Billy Church intends to retire this year, according to the city.

A news release from the city said that Church will retire on Nov. 3 after 30 years of working for the Johnson City Police Department (JCPD). He replaced Karl Turner following his retirement in 2023.

“It has been the privilege of my career to serve Johnson City and the Police Department,” said Chief Church in a release. “I’m incredibly proud of the work we’ve done to build a department that is more transparent, accountable, and community-focused. I’m confident that progress will continue.”

“Chief Church raised the bar for police service in Johnson City,” City Manager Cathy Ball said in the release. “The past two and half years have been pivotal in the direction of the Department, and it’s imperative that we maintain the positive momentum he’s helped create. The City will be diligent and expedient in its search for a new chief to ensure a smooth transition.”

The release said Church joined the JCPD in 1994 and rose through the ranks. Positions in which he served include public safety officer, criminal investigator, sergeant, lieutenant, platoon captain, operations major and chief.

“I’d say what I’m most proud of is the individual officers here at the Johnson City Police Department,” said Church in the release. “I’d put them up against any department in the world. They are remarkable men and women of integrity and dedication, and our community is in the most trusted hands I can imagine moving forward.”