Sevier County, Tennessee (August 29, 2025) – Sevier County Mayor Larry Waters, Tennessee’s longest-serving elected mayor, announced today in a news conference that he will not seek re-election in 2026, marking the conclusion of a remarkable 48-year career as Mayor.

Sevier County, Tennessee (August 29, 2025) – Sevier County Mayor Larry Waters, Tennessee’s longest-serving elected mayor, announced today in a news conference that he will not seek re-election in 2026, marking the conclusion of a remarkable 48-year career as Mayor. First elected in 1978 at the age of 25, Mayor Waters has guided Sevier County through decades of growth, challenges, and transformation. When he first took office as County Executive, a title that was later transitioned to County Mayor in 2003, Sevier County was a much different place. Under his leadership, the County has seen its population more than triple, its operating budget grow nearly twentyfold, and its tourism industry expand to welcome over 21 million visitors annually, ranking Sevier County among the top tourism destinations in the Southeast. Mayor Waters’ tenure has included leading the County through periods of infrastructure development, strengthening public safety and emergency management, modernizing County government operations, and supporting investments in education and economic development. He also worked to build strong relationships between city, county, state, and federal agencies, fostering collaboration and partnership across all levels of government. “Serving as Sevier County Mayor has truly been the honor of a lifetime,” said Mayor Waters. “I am proud of what we have built together, grateful for the trust the people of Sevier County have placed in me, and I’m committed to finishing my final year in office with the same dedication and focus as ever. There is still important work to be done before my term ends in 2026, and I remain determined to see it through.” During his decades of service, Mayor Waters earned a reputation for steady leadership during times of crisis, including the devastating 2016 wildfires and multiple periods of record-breaking tourism growth that required expanded infrastructure and services. He was instrumental in advancing major capital projects, including the expansion of the Sevier County Courthouse, investments in public safety and emergency communications systems, and improvements to roadways and public buildings. As the longest-serving county mayor in Tennessee history, Mayor Waters has worked with generations of elected officials, community leaders, and citizens to shape the county’s growth while protecting its character and sense of community.