Retiring Jefferson County Mayor Mark Potts Honors Legacy of County Leadership With Wall Dedication

Doug Goddard, Gary Holiway, Mayor Mark Potts
Photo by Jeff Depew

Jefferson County Mayor Mark Potts, who will conclude his tenure later this year and is not seeking reelection, presided over a heartfelt and historic ceremony in the Mayor’s Office this week—formally dedicating a newly dedicated wall honoring past County Executives and County Mayors. The display features framed photographs of those who have held the county’s top administrative role, creating a permanent tribute to Jefferson County’s evolving leadership and the individuals who helped shape its modern government.

The event drew an impressive crowd of former officeholders, family members, county staff, and community leaders. Among those honored and in attendance were former County Executives Doug Goddard and Gary Holiway, as well as the daughter of the late Alan Palmieri, whose photograph now joins the wall. Mayor Potts, whose own portrait has been added in anticipation of the conclusion of his term, welcomed guests with remarks emphasizing continuity, public service, and gratitude for the leaders who came before him.

Former State of Tennessee, Lieutenant Governor Ron Ramsey, Former Mayor Gary Holiway, Former County Executive Doug Goddard, Daughter Cat, Wife Caroline, and Granddaughter Wallis May
Photo by Jeff Depew

A special guest added notable distinction to the ceremony: Ron Ramsey, former Lieutenant Governor of the State of Tennessee, attended as a close personal friend of Doug Goddard. Ramsey’s presence underscored the statewide significance of Jefferson County’s leadership history and the longstanding relationships forged through decades of public service.

During the ceremony, each honoree reflected on their time in office and the milestones that defined their administrations.

• Doug Goddard spoke about his instrumental role in establishing Jefferson County’s non contributory retirement plan—an initiative modeled after a similar effort championed by former Tennessee Governor Lamar Alexander. Goddard noted that the plan, still in place today, remains one of the county’s most enduring structural achievements.
• Gary Holiway offered insight into one of the most consequential governmental transitions in county history: the shift from the County Executive system to the County Mayor form of government. Holiway’s tenure uniquely spanned both roles, giving him a rare perspective on the challenges and controversies of the change and the long-term benefits it ultimately provided.

Jefferson County Mayor Mark Potts, Former Mayor Gary Holiway, Former County Executive Doug Goddard
Photo by Jeff Depew

Also present were Republican nominee for County Mayor Randy Bales, County Commission Chairman Jimmy Carmichael, and a host of county employees, department heads, and family members who filled the room to celebrate the moment.

The dedication wall—now prominently displayed in the Mayor’s Office—serves not only as a visual record of Jefferson County’s leadership lineage but also as a reminder of the county’s steady progression through periods of growth, reform, and modernization. For Mayor Potts, the installation marks a meaningful capstone to his administration, symbolizing respect for the past and optimism for the future as Jefferson County prepares for new leadership in the upcoming election.

Photo by Jeff Depew

As the ceremony concluded, attendees lingered to share memories, congratulate Mayor Potts, and reflect on the county’s journey. The wall, now complete with decades of history, stands ready to welcome its next addition—continuing the story of Jefferson County’s public service legacy.