COOKEVILLE – City Manager James Mills announced today that Economic and Community Development Coordinator Melinda Keifer will be retiring at the end of April. Keifer began her employment with the City of Cookeville in 2010 after an extensive career with the State of Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development.
“Melinda Keifer has done an exceptional job for the city, as well as Putnam County, during her tenure,” said Mills. “She has worked diligently to help bring multiple projects to fruition, creating numerous jobs and positive economic impacts for our community. Her professionalism and hospitality have been evident with all interactions from the local level to the developers and maintaining a great working relationship with State.”
Mills went on to say, “We appreciate Melinda’s dedication to her hometown and all that she has done as an advocate for the City of Cookeville. Her community involvement went beyond the walls of City Hall, as she has served on numerous committees and has been a familiar face at many events. While Melinda will be retiring from her full-time position with the city, I am pleased to report that she has agreed to continue to assist with our economic development needs on a part-time basis while we transition.”
Cookeville Mayor Ricky Shelton said, “I have thoroughly enjoyed working closely with Melinda during her time with the city. She brings enthusiasm, knowledge and true professionalism to all projects. Although I will miss working with her, I wish her all the best at her retirement.”
“I’ve had the wonderful opportunity to work in many different facets of the community over my career. I have enjoyed being a part of the City of Cookeville team and am very proud of the accomplishments and progress we have made,” Keifer reflected. “I have decided this a great time to focus on my family and hobbies. I look forward to seeing what the future holds for Cookeville and Putnam County, it’s been a pleasure and honor to work alongside local officials, the Chamber of Commerce, civic organizations and the excellent group at the City of Cookeville.”
Keifer is a Cookeville native. She holds a degree in Home Economics/Fashion Merchandising from Tennessee Technological University. She has served on the TTL-J Alumni Board, remains active in Kappa Delta, is known nationally in the barbeque world for the Tony Stone Memorial BBQ Cookeville and has been an integral part of popular community events. Keifer and husband, Randy, have two daughters, Amanda and Emily, and look forward to spending more time in their role as grandparents. Melinda also plans to spend time on the family farm, Cedar Springs, as well as her beloved hobby of sewing.
