Lenoir City Leaders approved hiring Buddy Hathcock as the new city attorney at a special called meting Friday.

Mayor Matt Brookshire said he will be paid $42,000 annually for the part-time position.

Hathcock is set to begin working for the city in mid-February. 

City Administrator Dale Hurst said Hathcock will work about 20 hours a week, including attending city meetings, and have set office hours to consult on city matters.