Carter County Mayor Patty Woodby has been awarded the 2025 Robert M. Wormsley Outstanding County Official of the Year by the Tennessee County Services Association (TCSA). The recognition took place at the annual awards banquet on October 9, 2023, in Knoxville, Tennessee. This prestigious award is presented to a county leader who exemplifies integrity, innovation, and a commitment to public service, reflecting the values championed by the late Bob Wormsley, a former TCSA director.
Mayor Woodby, a dedicated public servant, began her political career when she was first elected to the Carter County Commission in 2018. Since then, she has established herself as a progressive leader focused on enhancing the quality of life in Northeast Tennessee. Her tenure has seen the advancement of significant initiatives, including the Northeast Tennessee Regional Recovery Center, which aims to provide treatment and second chances for individuals struggling with addiction. Another major project, the Carter County Higher Education Campus, is set to expand educational opportunities in the region when it opens in 2026.
TCSA Executive Director David Connor praised Mayor Woodby’s leadership, stating, “Through every challenge, Mayor Woodby’s leadership has reflected the resilience, cooperation, and care that define the best of Tennessee’s county officials. Her vision and decisiveness are bringing about improvements that are focused not on the next election, but on benefiting the lives of Tennesseans.”
The mayor’s commitment to her community became particularly apparent following the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene in 2024. She played a crucial role in coordinating recovery efforts, providing support for affected families, and advocating for reforms to enhance the state’s emergency response systems.
Founded in 1954, the Tennessee County Services Association serves and represents county mayors, commissioners, and highway executives. Its mission is to improve the functionality of county governments across Tennessee, thereby enhancing the services provided to residents.
Mayor Woodby’s recognition underscores her dedication to public service and her impact on the lives of those in her community. As she continues her work in Carter County, her leadership style and innovative projects promise to foster further advancements in the region.
