Hamilton County Leadership Settled | Chattanooga News

After a tense tie vote last week, Hamilton County Commissioners finally settled on new leadership this week — with Ken Smith returning as chairman and Steve Highlander taking the chairmanship pro tempore. The vote was decisive this time, with all commissioners present. A notable moment came when Democrat Warren Mackey nominated Republican Jeff Eversole for chairman, but Eversole declined, citing health and family concerns — despite Mackey’s strong support for him. The County Attorney confirmed nominees can decline without penalty, and Eversole stood firm. With no votes for Eversole, Smith won with Republican backing, while Highlander secured the pro tempore role. Leadership is now set for the upcoming term. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/ba8886568021a7ce