Brian D. Hercules, Town Manager, is pleased to announce Rex Gaither and Todd Spearman as the first assistant town managers for Smyrna. They both assume their roles on Jan. 1, 2020.

The assistant town manager positions were created to serve as capacity support for the town manager as a result of growth.

"Our goal is to ensure that both the citizens and Town of Smyrna personnel continue to receive the service and support they deserve," explained Hercules. "Rex and Todd are both long time, valued employees and will seamlessly transition to these elevated positions. Their support will allow me to steward and cultivate relationships locally, across Rutherford County, and at the state level."

Rex Gaither joined the Town of Smyrna in 1990 as a purchasing director. He was promoted to Finance Director in 2010 and has served in that position for the past nine years. As Finance Director, Rex leads budget preparation, capital improvement plans, financial projections, manages cash and investment portfolios, and all purchasing activities for the Town. Rex will continue to have oversight of the Finance Department in addition to his role as Assistant Town Manager.

Originally from Nashville, Rex is a proud graduate of Middle Tennessee State University.

"Smyrna is home for my family," shared Gaither. "I consider it an honor and privilege to serve my neighbors in this community." In addition to his work with the Town of Smyrna, Rex is a deacon and past board chair with Lifepoint Church. He is married to Leslie, and they are the proud parents of Hillary (Brad) Warren and Ryan Gaither, and the proud grandparents to Clay, Drew, Seth, and Lana. 

Todd Spearman joined the Town of Smyrna in 1987 as an auxiliary police officer, moving to full-time in January 1988. He worked his way through the ranks in the department, serving at Lt. of Patrol, Lt. Detective, and has served as Captain of Administration since 2008. Todd was instrumental in creating the Youth Academy, a Fire Department and Police Department Safety Camp that has consistently served over 70 children each year for the past 21 years.

While serving with Smyrna Police Department, Todd continued to further his education. He holds an Associate's Degree in Criminal Justice from Middle Tennessee State University, a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Management and Human Relations from Trevecca, and a J.D. from Nashville School of Law. He is licensed to practice law in the state of Tennessee. He and his wife, Beverly, are proud to call Smyrna home. "It has been my privilege to serve the Town of Smyrna throughout my career," shared Spearman. "I look forward to continuing that service as an assistant town manager." 

Photo: Rex Gaither and Todd Spearman