Julian Bolton, a practicing attorney and native Memphian active in community affairs, was elected to serve on the Board of Commissioners in 1982. He was re-elected in 1986, 1990, 1994, 1998 and 2002. He graduated from Rhodes College with a degree in Communication Arts, received his graduate degree in Speech and Drama from the University of Memphis, and his juris doctorate degree from the University of Memphis Law School.

Prior to obtaining his law degree and joining Richardson Law Firm, he had worked as a technical consultant for South Central Bell, a manager for the CPA firm of Bailey, Finley, White & Co; assistant professor of Speech and Drama at Lemoyne-Owen College, and a legal intern for the Center for Constitutional Rights.

He has been active in a number of community activities, including Rhodes College's Committee of the Future, treasurer of Midtown Mental Health Center, and the executive committee of Tennessee Tombigbee Waterways Authority.

Mr. Bolton was elected Chairman of the Commission in 1995 as after serving as Chairman Pro Tempore in 1994. He previously had servered as Chairman Pro Tempore in 1984 and 1990.

Mr. Bolton has taken special interest in downtown and inner city development, minority business development and African American issues.