Board of Commissioners Vote Barbara Parton and Rick Valentine to Fill Vacant Seats

Sevier County, Tennessee (December 17, 2024) – The Sevier County Board of Commissioners unanimously voted to fill two vacant seats during their meeting on Monday, December 17th. Nominations to fill District 5 Seat B and District 5 Seat C were accepted at the Steering Committee meeting on Monday, December 9th, as well as in person during the County Commission meeting, in accordance with T.C.A. 5-5-111.P

Barbara Parton was unanimously appointed to fill the vacant District 5 Seat C, left open following the passing of her late husband, Commissioner Frank Parton, in November of this year. Rick Valentine was unanimously appointed to District 5 Seat B, which became vacant after Commissioner Fred Atchley announced his resignation from the Commission to serve as the elected State Representative for Tennessee’s District 12.

Sevier County Mayor Larry Waters expressed optimism regarding the appointments. “While we are deeply saddened by the loss of Commissioner Frank Parton, it is fitting to have his wife, Barbara Parton, continue his legacy of service to Sevier County. Additionally, we are proud of Commissioner Fred Atchley’s election to the Tennessee House of Representatives and thank him for his years of service to our community. We welcome Rick Valentine to the Commission and are confident he will serve with great enthusiasm.”

Barbara Parton was sworn in at Monday’s Commission meeting, surrounded by friends and family. Rick Valentine will be sworn in after Fred Atchley’s resignation becomes effective on January 1, 2025.

Both Barbara Parton and Rick Valentine will serve the remainder of their respective terms, which will conclude with the next election in 2026, at which time the seats will appear on the ballot.