GATLINBURG, Tenn.— The City of Gatlinburg officially welcomed two members to the Gatlinburg City Commission during a swearing-in ceremony held Thursday morning at Mills Conference Center, as newly-elected Commissioner Randy Brackins and Commissioner Kirby Smith took their oaths of office for a four-year term on the City Commission.
Commissioner Brackins, who will serve in Seat D, was elected by the during the recent municipal election. A lifelong public servant, Brackins retired as Gatlinburg’s Police Chief in 2023 following a remarkable 49-year career with the department. He was recognized as Chief of the Year in 2017 by the Tennessee Association of Chiefs of Police and later honored with the prestigious Joe Casey Award, one of the highest accolades a police chief can receive in Tennessee.
“Today, we welcome Commissioner Brackins into a new chapter of service—as a member of the Gatlinburg City Commission,” City Manager Greg Patterson said during the swearing-in ceremony. “And just as he has done for the past 49 years, we know he will continue to serve with distinction.”
Commissioner Smith, who serves in Seat E, was originally appointed to the City Commission in March 2022. A familiar face in Gatlinburg’s civic and tourism communities, Smith has served on the Gatlinburg Public Building Authority, the Redevelopment and Housing Authority, the Municipal Planning Commission, the Rocky Top Sports World Advisory Board, and the Gatlinburg Convention and Visitors Bureau Board of Directors. In 2023, he was awarded the Zeno Wall Jr. Tourism Award and named the Tennessee Restaurateur of the Year by Hospitality Tennessee.
“Kirby’s roots in Gatlinburg run deep and his impact on this community continues to grow every day,” Patterson said during the ceremony. “Commissioner Smith is a thoughtful and engaged leader, and the City is grateful for his continued service.”
During his remarks at the ceremony, Patterson emphasized the vital role public service plays in shaping the community.
“Local government is where leadership meets everyday life,” Patterson said during Thursday morning’s ceremony. “It’s where decisions made affect our neighborhoods, our families, our businesses, and our future. Our city is stronger when thoughtful, dedicated people step up to lead—and that’s exactly what we’re celebrating today.”
Patterson also acknowledged the responsibility that comes with elected office and expressed appreciation to the City’s residents and staff.
“To our newly elected Commissioners: thank you for your willingness to serve. You’ve earned the trust of the community, and that trust is a powerful responsibility,” he said. “To our residents and City employees here today, thank you for your continued engagement and dedication. A successful Commission relies on transparency, trust, and teamwork, and that includes all of you.”
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