Bristol, Tennessee, September 3, 2025
News Summary
Bristol Mayor Dr. Mark Hutton has announced his resignation from the City Council effective September 2, 2025, after three years of dedicated service. Hutton will return to a permanent role as a pastor, expressing gratitude for his time in office and highlighting strong community relationships. Vice Mayor Vince Turner will assume the mayoral position until the next city reorganization meeting in January 2026. The City Council is expected to appoint a new council member from the east district to fill Hutton’s seat.
Bristol, Tennessee
Bristol Mayor Dr. Mark Hutton has officially announced his resignation from the Bristol City Council, effective September 2, 2025. Hutton’s decision comes after three years of dedicated service in city government, during which he made significant contributions to the community.
In his resignation announcement, Dr. Hutton revealed that he will be taking on a permanent role as a pastor, returning to a calling that he considers integral to his life. His resignation letter expressed heartfelt gratitude for the opportunity to serve the residents of Bristol, highlighting the strong relationships he built during his tenure.
Following Hutton’s departure, Vice Mayor Vince Turner will assume the position of mayor until the next city reorganization meeting scheduled for January 2026. Turner is prepared to step into this role to ensure continuity in leadership during the transition period.
Background and Career
Dr. Hutton was appointed to the Bristol City Council in March 2022 to fill a vacancy representing the east district. He was later elected to continue his service later that same year. Before assuming his role in the City Council, Hutton served on the Sullivan County Commission from 2018 to 2022, representing Bristol’s second district.
In January 2025, Hutton was officially sworn in as the mayor of Bristol, Tennessee. Throughout his time in office, he focused on community engagement and infrastructure improvements aimed at enhancing the quality of life for Bristol residents. His resignation comes at a time when Hutton reflects on the strength and resilience of the Bristol community, as highlighted in his resignation correspondence.
Next Steps for the City Council
With Hutton’s impending departure, the City Charter mandates that the City Council appoint a resident from the east district to fill the vacant seat within 30 days. This appointment will allow continuity in representation until the next scheduled regular election in November 2026.
The Council plans to address the process for this appointment, as well as select a new vice mayor during the upcoming City Council meeting on September 9, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. This meeting will be crucial in determining the immediate future of the Council amidst the transition in leadership.
Conclusion
Mark Hutton’s resignation marks the end of a meaningful chapter for both him and the Bristol community. His commitment to serving the public and his decision to return to a pastoral role reflect his personal and professional journey, which many residents have come to respect. As the City Council moves forward, the local government will focus on maintaining stability and continuity in leadership.
FAQ Section
What is the date of Mayor Mark Hutton’s resignation?
Mayor Mark Hutton’s resignation is effective on September 2, 2025.
Who will take over as mayor after Hutton’s resignation?
Vice Mayor Vince Turner will assume the role of mayor until the next city reorganization meeting in January 2026.
What positions has Mark Hutton held in local government?
Mark Hutton served on the Sullivan County Commission and was appointed to the City Council before becoming mayor.
What is the Council’s plan for Hutton’s vacant seat?
The City Council is required to appoint a resident from the east district to fill Hutton’s vacant seat within 30 days following his resignation.
When will the Council discuss the appointment of a new vice mayor?
The City Council will discuss the appointment and select a new vice mayor on September 9, 2025.
Key Features of Mark Hutton’s Tenure
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Appointment to City Council | March 2022 |
| Election to City Council | Later in 2022 |
| Mayor of Bristol | Assumed office January 2025 |
| Resignation Effective Date | September 2, 2025 |
| Next Steps for Council | Appointment process discussion on September 9, 2025 |
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Additional Resources
- WCYB News
- Wikipedia: Bristol, Tennessee
- Johnson City Press
- Google Search: Mark Hutton Bristol Tennessee
- Herald Courier
- Google Scholar: Mark Hutton Bristol
- WCYB Local News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Mark Hutton Bristol Tennessee
- WJHL News
- Google News: Mark Hutton Bristol
Author: STAFF HERE BRISTOL WRITTER
The BRISTOL STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBristol.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Bristol, Sullivan County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion, NASCAR races at Bristol Motor Speedway, Border Bash concert series, and the Hot Bristol Night Car Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Bristol Chamber of Commerce, Believe in Bristol, and the Birthplace of Country Music, plus leading businesses in healthcare, manufacturing, and entertainment that power the local economy such as Ballad Health, Strongwell, and Bristol Motor Speedway. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
