Bristol, Tennessee, October 2, 2025
News Summary
Matt Slagle has been appointed to the Bristol, Tennessee City Council, filling the vacancy left by former member Mark Hutton’s recent resignation. The council’s decision follows a competitive selection process involving 11 candidates, with Slagle’s prior experience on the Sullivan County Commission playing a pivotal role in his appointment. The city council plans to address future vacancies and select a new Vice Mayor at their next meeting, while Vice Mayor Vince Turner assumes the role of interim Mayor until January 2026.
Bristol, Tennessee – Matt Slagle has been appointed to the Bristol, Tennessee City Council to fill the vacancy left by former council member Mark Hutton, who resigned last month. The appointment was made during a special called meeting held by the city council’s remaining four members. According to the city charter, the council is required to appoint someone from the same district within 30 days of a vacancy.
Prior to this new role, Slagle served on the Sullivan County Commission for the past three years. His experience in local government was likely a significant factor in his selection. A total of 11 eligible candidates applied for the vacant seat, and Slagle emerged as the final choice from this competitive pool.
As a result of Hutton’s resignation, the city council will also need to discuss the process for filling any future vacancies during their next scheduled meeting, which is set for Tuesday, September 9, at 6:00 p.m. Additionally, the council will address the selection of a new Vice Mayor. Until a new mayor is appointed, Vice Mayor Vince Turner will assume the role of Mayor, a position that will remain in effect until the next City Council reorganization meeting in January 2026.
Details of the Appointment
- Slagle’s appointment comes after a period of deliberation among the current council members.
- The city charter mandates the appointment of a new council member from the same district.
- The meeting where Slagle was appointed was a special called session, indicating the urgency of filling the position.
- Slagle’s experience on the Sullivan County Commission may provide valuable insights to the city council.
Next Steps for the City Council
The Bristol Tennessee City Council has outlined plans for its upcoming meeting to further discuss important matters related to council operations. This includes establishing measures for navigating future vacancies in council seats and selecting a new Vice Mayor, as the current Vice Mayor, Vince Turner, transitions to mayoral responsibilities.
Background Information
The vacancy on the Bristol Tennessee City Council occurred following the resignation of Mark Hutton, a council member whose term ended unexpectedly. To comply with the city charter, the council’s prompt action in appointing a new member underscores the importance of maintaining governance continuity. Bristol’s city government is dedicated to ensuring that representation remains responsive to community needs.
Chart of Key Features Related to the Appointment
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| New Appointee | Matt Slagle |
| Previous Position | Sullivan County Commissioner |
| Reason for Vacancy | Resignation of Mark Hutton |
| Number of Candidates | 11 eligible candidates |
| Next Council Meeting | September 9, 6:00 p.m. |
| Interim Mayor | Vice Mayor Vince Turner |
| Next Reorganization Meeting | January 2026 |
FAQ
Who has been appointed to the Bristol, Tennessee City Council?
Matt Slagle has been appointed to the Bristol, Tennessee City Council.
What was the reason for the vacancy on the City Council?
The vacancy was created when former council member Mark Hutton resigned last month.
How many candidates applied for the vacant seat?
A total of 11 eligible candidates applied for the vacant seat.
When is the next City Council meeting scheduled?
The City Council will discuss the process for filling future vacancies, as well as selecting a new Vice Mayor, at their next scheduled meeting on Tuesday, September 9, at 6:00 p.m.
Who will assume the role of Mayor until the next City Council reorganization?
Vice Mayor Vince Turner will assume the role of Mayor until the next City Council reorganization meeting in January 2026.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Brightspeed Sues Bristol Over Discriminatory ROW Fees
Bristol City Council Appoints Matt Slagle Following Mayor’s Resignation
Bristol Community Celebrates School Year with Badge Bash
Bristol City Council Discusses Charter Changes and Tax Relief
Bristol Police Department Enhances Community Policing
Bristol City Council Considers Charter Changes and Tax Freeze for Seniors
Paramount Bristol Supports Local Schools with Giving Initiative
Early Voting Begins in Virginia Ahead of November Elections
Bristol Community Mourns Cherished Residents
Weekend Events in Bristol, Tennessee
Additional Resources
- WCYB: Proposed Changes to the Bristol Tennessee City Charter
- Wikipedia: Bristol, Tennessee
- WCYB: Bristol Tennessee Mayor Mark Hutton Resigns
- Google Search: Bristol Tennessee City Council
- WJHL: Application Opens for Seat on Bristol Tennessee City Council
- Google Scholar: Bristol Tennessee City Council
- WJHL: Bristol Tennessee City Council Working to Pass Budget
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Bristol Tennessee
- WCYB: Matt Slagle Appointed to Bristol Tennessee City Council
- Google News: Bristol Tennessee City Council
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.
