Gatlinburg welcomed its 12th City Manager in history on Monday morning, April 1 as Greg Patterson was officially sworn in to office. The ceremony took place at Gatlinburg City Hall, marking the commencement of Patterson’s tenure as the City’s top administrative position.

“This is a historic day for Gatlinburg, and we are thrilled to welcome Greg Patterson as our new City Manager,” said Gatlinburg Mayor Mike Werner. “There’s going to be very open communication between the citizens and City Hall and between the City Manager and the City Commission.”

Patterson’s background in Gatlinburg and in the public sector in Sevier County is extensive, having served as the City’s Fire Chief from 2005 to 2008 and was Assistant City Manager from 2002 through March 31. Additionally, Patterson served as the Pigeon Forge Fire Department Administrator, Assistant Sevier County Mayor from 2008 to 2016, and was Sevier County Trustee from 2016 through 2021. 

“It is with great enthusiasm that I accept this responsibility and I am deeply committed to serving the residents and visitors and furthering the progress of our great City,” Patterson said during his remarks after being sworn in. “I am fully aware of both the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead and I am eager to leverage my experience, skills, and passion for public service to address them effectively.

“I believe in open communication, transparency, and accountability and I am committed to fostering a culture of excellence within the City government,” Patterson said.

During his remarks, Patterson took time to address Gatlinburg residents, visitors, and businesses that make up one of the nation’s most visited destinations during his remarks on Monday morning.

“I am dedicated to ensuring that the City government remains responsive, accountable, and dedicated to serving the best interests of all residents,” Patterson said. “Our City is more than just a destination, it is a lively mix of old stories, new ideas, and beautiful scenery. From beautiful mountains to the thriving Arts and Crafts community, there is something here for everyone and it brings me great joy to see our City bustling with excitement as visitors grace us with their presence.

“I also want to express my appreciation for the Gatlinburg’s businesses for the crucial role they play in shaping the character and vitality of our community and for their contributions to our City’s success,” Patterson said. “I believe that strong partnerships between the City government and local businesses are essential for creating a thriving, resilient community.”

Patterson also addressed City employees during his remarks on Monday morning.

“Since rejoining this amazing team, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing firsthand the dedication, talent, and passion that each of the City employees bring to their role every single day,” Patterson said. “From exceeding targets to finding innovative solutions, the City employees consistently go above and beyond to deliver outstanding results and I am honored to be leading such a remarkable group of individuals.”

Patterson takes the helm of the City Manager’s role after the retirement of Cindy Cameron Ogle, who served in the position from July 3, 1989 through March 31. 

“I would be remiss if I didn’t thank our outgoing City Manager, Cindy Cameron Ogle,” Patterson said. “I appreciate her trust in me, and look forward to continuing to build upon the foundation she has laid. I commend Cindy on her accomplishments as City Manager and wish her the best of luck in her next phase of life.”

Patterson, who is a 1989 graduate of Gatlinburg-Pittman High School, began his public service career at the age of 18 with the Pigeon Forge Fire Department. He holds degrees from Columbia Southern University with an Associates of Fire Science, a Bachelors of Business Administration, and a Master in Business Administration.

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