Time flies when you’re having fun
The city of McMinnville was recently awarded the 2026 Award for Excellence in Overall Municipal Governance by the Tennessee Municipal League.
“I feel like this recognition is a culmination of the efforts that we have undertaken for the last several years to try to do several different things to bring everything into compliance and do better with the resources that we have,” said City Administrator Nolan Ming. “It’s been a team effort, literally, from the employees to the public providing their feedback on our strategic plan, which leads to the priorities we set each year in our budget. Obviously, with our elected officials, as well. They are key to making it all happen. I’m very proud of this recognition.”
Each year, the Tennessee Municipal League honors towns and cities across the state for
excellence, outstanding programs and projects, and municipal department accomplishments.
Ming has been in his current role for seven years. Prior to that, he was director of the city’s Community Development Department.
“This recognition is fully encompassing of everything we’ve done over the last several years. We will keep trying to do better. This, certainly, is not the end of the road for McMinnville. This is just the beginning. We will keep focusing on ways to improve. I feel like we’ve got such a good team. If we try something and it doesn’t work, we regroup and try something different. Everyone is committed to getting better every day. I don’t see time as limiting, but time does fly when you’re having fun. You can quote me on that.”
According to the TML press release, “As a result of implementing these strategies, the city has ensured that decisions, financial resources, and community investment are maximized for long-term impact. The initiative has seen the city increase budget execution from 85-90% to 98%, eliminated duplication of services, improved internal efficiencies by reducing outdated or inconsistent regulations, and strengthened cross-department collaboration.”
TML’s honor will be formally presented to city leadership at the upcoming 86th annual TML Conference hosted at the MeadowView Conference Resort & Convention Center in Kingsport, Tenn.
Nolan Ming, City Administrator
