When people come together in support of a common goal, great things happen.

Your ideas and comments can help build a prosperous future for Knoxville. Please take a moment to share your ideas and insights. Talk about what is working and not working or suggest constructive ways we can improve on an already great community.

Together we can build Knoxville into all she can be. We appreciate your time and ideas.

Close this Window
09 Nov
2011
Mark Padgett's Concession Speech - November 8, 2011I look forward to working with all of you in the future to make Knoxville an even better place to live -- because the only way we're going to move Knoxville forward is by working together. more »
08 Nov
2011
Post-election interview with WBIRInterview with Mark Padgett at the Sunsphere after conceding to mayor-elect Madeline Rogero. more »
08 Nov
2011
WATE Segment on Mark's 24 Hour "Rock the Vote 'Round the Clock"Video of Mark Padgett's non-stop campaigning blitz 24 hours before the polls open (Monday, 8am - Tuesday, 8am). more »
08 Nov
2011
WATE: Putting the Knoxville mayoral ads to the truth testHow about Mark Padgett's latest TV ad? It says like "Phil Bredesen and Bill Haslam, Knoxville's next mayor should a proven record of creating private sector jobs and strengthening the local, that man is Mark Padgett." Padgett's company, eGovernment solutions, has created jobs, so that is true. But he says the company only has 10 employees. "They're not all full-time employees. Ten people to help e-gov, five are full-time employees. five are contractors. I pay technical advisors and contractors," said Padgett. more »
08 Nov
2011
WBIR: Wright's Cafeteria becomes campaign stop"It's always packed," Padgett said. "The people who come here seem like they're always in the know about what's going on in politics. You come here and you shake hands and people tell you what they think is happening. It's kind of a ritual and it's a lot of fun," Padgett added. more »
07 Nov
2011
November 8: Vote to Move Knoxville Forward!Video compilation of some of our best volunteers and events around Knoxville. more »
07 Nov
2011
UPDATED: Padgett Announces "Rock the Vote 'Round the Clock""We saw during the primary that every vote counts," said Mark Padgett. "Visiting patrons and workers throughout the city during the last 24 hours of the campaign allows me one final opportunity to share my plan to grow Knoxville's economy so we can invest in our neighborhoods and improve city services. I'm dedicated to moving Knoxville forward, and I have the passion and energy to lead. In addition, my team of volunteers and interns are making calls, knocking on doors and offering folks rides to the polls. Since the primary, we've made over 6,000 voter contacts for a total of 30,000. I urge everyone to make their voice heard and vote on November 8." more »
04 Nov
2011
Madeline Rogero's New TV Commercial Hides Record of Tax Increases, Pay Raise and Slush Fund"From day one, our campaign has focused on issues, ideas and her public record," said Tony Coppola, campaign manager for Mark Padgett for Knoxville City Mayor. "The truth is simple and clear: Madeline Rogero voted for five tax increases, including one that gave her a 24 percent pay raise, and she voted to use taxpayer dollars to fill up a slush fund for Knox County politicians. The voters deserve to know the difference between the two candidates." more »
02 Nov
2011
Mark Padgett Opposes Stormwater Utility Fee"After receiving many phone calls and e-mails from concerned Knoxvillians, I wanted to voice my opposition to the city's Stormwater Utility proposal," said Mark Padgett. "From Charlotte to Chattanooga, similar approaches have proved to be little more than a monthly 'rain tax; that appears on your utility bill. During these tough economic times, I'm concerned this approach will push businesses out of the city while unnecessarily burdening families, churches and non-profit organizations. Someone can always come up with a good reason to create fees and raise taxes. Instead, my administration will focus on growing the local economy, cutting wasteful spending in city government and finding innovative financing methods to invest in neighborhoods and improve city services. I urge my opponent to clarify her position on this issue." more »
01 Nov
2011
Have You Voted to Move Knoxville Forward?Our campaign has gained momentum throughout the entire city because of supporters like you. And now is the time to double down on our efforts and encourage our friends, family and colleagues to help make Mark Padgett Knoxville's next city Mayor. more »
01 Nov
2011
Strong Showing in October for Padgett CampaignThe campaign raised $95,295.00, making October 2011 the second most successful fundraising month (after raising over $114,000 in June 2011). more »
28 Oct
2011
Knoxville News Sentinel: Rogero, Padgett debate covers range of issues"I would like to see them come down," Padgett said of the city's red light cameras, which are posted at more than a dozen locations. He said he doubts they have been as effective as claimed in making intersections safer. "They are nothing but revenue generators, and another layer of bureaucracy," Padgett said. more »
23 Oct
2011
Knoxville News Sentinel: Mark Padgett cites his business experience in mayoral campaignMark Padgett is a mayoral candidate bursting with energy — and brimming with confidence that his business experience as an Internet and software entrepreneur makes him the right person for the job. "This race is all about who has the right kind of experience," Padgett said. "Government must be run like a business, with efficiency. The more money you save over here, the more money you have to spend to help people over there." more »
20 Oct
2011
Knoxville News Sentinel: Mayoral candidates quizzed on East Knoxville issues"Growing jobs in our economy is the one thing we can't afford to get wrong," Padgett said to the standing-room-only crowd of nearly 100 people. He said the government needs to support existing businesses, recruit new businesses and establish Knoxville as a good place to start a business. He said the city should work to recruit businesses in industries such as clean energy, technology and automotive components. more »
19 Oct
2011
Early Voting Starts Today! (October 19 - November 3)Information on polling locations and deadlines. more »
18 Oct
2011
Press Release: Mark Padgett Launches Third TV Commercial: "Jobs""Early voting starts tomorrow through November 3, and election day is November 8," said Padgett. "I hope everyone makes their voice heard and votes to move Knoxville forward. I want folks to know that my top priority is economic growth because it's the only way we can afford to invest in our neighborhoods and the programs and services we all care about." more »
17 Oct
2011
Press Release: Local Home Builders and Realtors Endorse Mark PadgettHighlight Mark's Small Business Experience and Plans to Grow Knoxville's Economy more »
12 Oct
2011
Audio: Interview on WNOX (100.3 FM)Interview with Mark Padgett on the Ed and Bob Show more »
10 Oct
2011
Audio: Interview on WOKI (98.7 FM)Interview with Mark Padgett and Hallerin Hilton Hill on 98.7 FM more »
05 Oct
2011
Knoxville Daily Sun: Some of Knoxville's Biggest Names Endorse Mark Padgett..."I'm proud to endorse Mark's candidacy to be Knoxville's next city mayor," said Ivan Harmon. Harmon then went on to speak about Padgett's pro-business and pro-neighborhood stance. Harmon added, "He has the heart and passion to serve our community, and he's a fiscal conservative who understands how to create jobs and grow our economy." ...Other than the simple endorsements, all four stated that they'd join Padgett on the campaign trail to urge their friends, supporters and families to join the now extremely powerful Padgett candidacy. more »
05 Oct
2011
Knoxville News Sentinel: Former opponents, Knox sheriff endorse Padgett for mayorKnoxville mayoral candidate Mark Padgett announced this afternoon he's received endorsements for office from former opponents Ivan Harmon, Joe Hultquist and Bo Bennett as well as Knox County Sheriff Jimmy "J.J." Jones. more »
05 Oct
2011
Press Release: Padgett Plan Leads to Key EndorsementsHarmon, Hultquist, Bennett and Knox County Sheriff Jones Believe Mark is Best Candidate to Create Jobs, Strengthen Neighborhoods and Improve City Government more »
05 Oct
2011
WATE: Former opponents back Mark Padgett for Knoxville mayor"Mark has the leadership qualities needed to be a great mayor," said Knox County Sheriff Jimmy "J.J." Jones. "He understands that an involved community is a safe community and will be a great partner in making our neighborhoods stronger and safer." more »
04 Oct
2011
Daily Beacon: Mayoral candidate Mark Padgett celebrates primary success at Old City gastropub"We had the Haslam administration really do some great things, and now we need Mark to keep Knoxville moving forward," Biggs said. "He's a good businessman. He's really set on creating jobs. In my opinion, he's the only candidate for the job." more »
04 Oct
2011
WATE: Following the money in the race for Knoxville mayor"We've raised money north, south, east and west from people of all walks of life. You know anyone who wants to contribute to my campaign, to invest in our message and our vision we have for Knoxville, we are flattered," Padgett said. more »
03 Oct
2011
Audio: Interview on WNOX (100.3 FM)Interview with Mark Padgett on the Ed and Bob Show more »
01 Oct
2011
Knoxville Daily Sun: The Heart of the Padgett PlanWhat Mark Padgett has done is he has laid everything on the table, expanded, improved-on and molded those ideas while brainstorming his own original ideas. This is what leaders do. more »
29 Sep
2011
Are You Registered to Vote on November 8?November 8 is just around the corner. Our campaign has gained momentum throughout the entire city because of supporters like you. And now is the time to double down on our efforts and encourage our friends, family, and colleagues to vote. Make your voice heard - vote Mark Padgett for Knoxville City Mayor to Move Knoxville Forward! more »
28 Sep
2011
Audio: Interview on WOKI (98.7 FM)Interview with Mark Padgett and Hallerin Hilton Hill on 98.7 FM more »
28 Sep
2011
Knoxville Journal: Rogero, Padgett to battle for Knoxville mayor in November runoff“We knew we came from nowhere, and to come to where we have tonight, we always said all we want to do is force that runoff and come in second place, then it starts a whole new campaign,” Padgett said. When you’re running head-to-head, with someone, it’s a whole different race. We’re really excited about these next six weeks.” more »
28 Sep
2011
Press Release: Mark Padgett Releases "Padgett Plan" to Move Knoxville Forward"From our police force to infrastructure to parks and greenways, the only way we can afford to pay for programs and services we all care about is by growing jobs and our economy and cutting waste and red tape in city government," Padgett said. "I've shared this vision for Knoxville with hundreds of community groups, neighborhood associations, and businesses and at over 45 debates. The 'Padgett Plan' is the culmination and next phase of my conversation with Knoxville. I believe that voters deserve to hear specific ideas on how to create jobs, strengthen our neighborhoods and improve city services." more »
27 Sep
2011
Press Release: Mark Padgett Advances to the Run-Off on Platform of Job Creation and Economic GrowthPadgett also announced the release of the "Padgett Plan" at a news conference on Wednesday, September 28th at 11:00 a.m. at campaign headquarters (117 S. Gay Street, 37902). more »
27 Sep
2011
Tennessee Journalist: Mark Padgett touts small business experience as what Knoxville needs in next mayorAmong Padgett's top issues is the economy, which he plans to grow by providing more support for small businesses, recruiting world-class companies and jobs, and promoting public-private partnerships with University of Tennessee and Oak Ridge. more »
22 Sep
2011
TNJN: Mark Padgett Campaign provides political experience to UT students"Mark realizes that many UT graduates have to move away from Knoxville to find jobs, and he wants to be the mayor to fix that," Thompson said, "Since Mark is significantly younger than some of the other candidates, he understands our generation's desire for a thriving downtown." more »
20 Sep
2011
Press Release: Padgett Campaign Continues to Gain Momentum"Every dollar of support is an investment in my plan to create jobs and strengthen our neighborhoods," said Padgett. "I've shared my plan to move Knoxville forward with hundreds of businesses, community organizations, and neighborhood associations. Thanks to our dedicated interns and volunteers, my campaign has also made 20,000 voter contacts through phone calls and knocking on doors. We're going to continue to work tirelessly through Election Day. I urge everyone to encourage their friends, families, and colleagues to make their voice heard and vote." more »
14 Sep
2011
iTunes: Mark Padgett for Knoxville City Mayor - Campaign SoundtrackMark's campaign has four staffers, over 20 interns, and dozens of volunteers working around the clock to help move Knoxville forward. Fueled on coffee from Remedy and Harry's Deli, we also keep the energy level high by rocking out to a playlist including U2, Tom Petty and Elvis Presley. more »
12 Sep
2011
"Friend" Cappy Padgett on FacebookKnoxville's favorite golden doodle is on Facebook. more »
10 Sep
2011
Tennessee Journalist: Employment, development hot topics at Voice of Voter forumMark Padgett said his plan for job growth is not a plan at all. Instead, it is a set of action-based initiatives to bring permanent jobs to Knoxville. "[Knoxville is] really good at planning, but most plans are waiting on private sector investment. That's what Knoxville needs to grow," Padgett said. Job growth is the most important aspect of Padgett's campaign, followed by building strong neighborhoods, ensuring that all city departments are operating smoothly and creating a thriving downtown. more »
08 Sep
2011
Help Get Out the Vote!Early voting has finally begun (September 7-22) for the September 27th primary, and I've been overwhelmed by the support from all walks and life and corners of the city. In the last 48 hours alone, I've received calls, e-mails, and Facebook messages from people asking how they can join our team for the final push to victory. There is no time commitment to volunteer, but in general we've been signing folks up for the following shifts (everyday): 7:00-9:00am, 11:00am-1:00pm, and 4:00-7:00pm. more »
08 Sep
2011
Video: GreenVillageGreen.com: Interview on Sustainability and Economic OpportunitiesCarol Montgomery interviews Mark on opportunities for Knoxville to support sustainability while growing its economy. more »
07 Sep
2011
Early Voting Starts Today (Sept 7-22)Information on registration, polling locations, and deadlines. more »
07 Sep
2011
Metro Pulse: Q&A with Mark PadgettWorking with the various organizations and the business community, the mayor needs to lead and drive economic development. Our current regional approach is serving Knoxville well, but much like fiscal responsibility, economic development is not a one-time exercise. As mayor, I'm going to proactively push for smart development that grows our economy and strengthens our neighborhoods. more »
06 Sep
2011
Audio: Interview on WUOT (91.9 FM)WUOT's Chrissy Keuper and Mark Padgett. more »
06 Sep
2011
Knoxville News Sentinel: Letter to the Editor: Mark Padgett will keep up momentum of cityMark's vision coupled with his leadership skill and business experience make him the best candidate for moving Knoxville forward. If you want Knoxville to thrive, vote for Mark Padgett. more »
06 Sep
2011
Press Release: Mark Padgett: Next Mayor Must Grow Knoxville's Economy, Cut Wasteful Spending to Maintain High Quality of LifeTonight's debate made clear once again that this election is really about three things: jobs, jobs, and jobs. Who can create them? Who can recruit them? And who can keep them in Knoxville? The only way we can grow Knoxville's economy is by making our neighborhoods stronger, safer and more connected and by making city government more efficient, transparent, and accessible. That's what I'm going to do for Knoxville - every minute of every day. more »
04 Sep
2011
Knoxville News Sentinel: Mayoral Diversity Questionnaire: Mark PadgettAs mayor, one of the best ways to encourage unity is simply leading by example. I'm going to proactively promote diversity, participation, access, and tolerance because I believe those principles encourage civic engagement and participation, which will lead to a more unified Knoxville. My administration will also support diversity at all levels of city government, continue the progress downtown (because I believe it's everyone's neighborhood), and support cultural events and festivals. more »
29 Aug
2011
Mark Launches Ad Campaign Stressing Job Creation"Since our campaign started last December, I've knocked on thousands of doors, met with hundreds of community groups and participated in over 35 debates," said Padgett. "My campaign has consistently gained momentum because my plan to create jobs and economic growth is resonating with Knoxvillians from all walks of life. As early voting begins next week, I want folks to know that my top priority is to grow our economy because it's the only way we can afford to invest in the programs and services we all care about." more »
28 Aug
2011
Knoxville News Sentinel: Mark Padgett stumps as small businessman, job creator"I've known Mark since he was born and watched him grow up," Gooch said. "I'm familiar with his background, what he's accomplished. Mark is very intelligent and can do any number of things. I think Knoxville is very fortunate to have someone of his caliber running for mayor." more »
27 Aug
2011
Knoxville News Sentinel: Q&A with Mark PadgettThe city has excellent codes and a number of dedicated employees. However, Knoxville has too many blighted, vacant and abandoned properties. I would consider adding more inspectors, but I want to first reduce the response time to complaints, provide better support to code enforcers, and incorporate technology that streamlines services. more »
25 Aug
2011
Early Voting Locations AnnouncedReminder that early voting for the Knoxville city mayoral campaign starts in just a few short weeks (September 7)! Below is a calendar and helpful links to get you and your family/friends ready for the September 27 primary. more »
18 Aug
2011
Knoxville Yankee: The Real DealBut then you watch him in quiet moments when his guard is down, when he makes his way through the Old City, talking with the girl who made his coffee. As he taste-tests chocolate and jokes with her you realize that "politician Padgett" is the same as "everyday Padgett." He knows the guy on the corner, unloading a sink from a plumbing truck, knows him well, by the conversation. He stops to greet the homeless man walking down the street the other way and you realize they are on a first-name basis. These are unrehearsed moments and you realize that the passion Padgett feels for Knoxville and its people is genuine. The real deal. more »
17 Aug
2011
Press Release: Mark Responds to Compassion Knoxville RecommendationsI applaud Compassion Knoxville's exhaustive process and community-driven approach. One of the best ways to help the homeless reintegrate back into society is to focus on unemployment, drug and alcohol addiction, and mental illness. So I particularly support the recommendation that folks cannot receive services until they sign up for case management. more »
09 Aug
2011
Knoxville Daily Sun: Padgett Raises Another $45k in JulyI personally believe that Padgett's successful campaign is the result of new hope. Naturally, there are subtle differences on all the candidates; however, Padgett has one element that the others seem to be lacking: While it's true that Knoxville has come a long way it's also true that we should get on with the future. We live in a time when the people are tired of listening to "politics as usual." What worked yesterday will not necessarily work tomorrow. A new, fresh, untainted mind and leadership may be the exact ace that this city needs. more »
08 Aug
2011
Make Your Voice Heard - Register to Vote!Early voting for the Knoxville city mayoral campaign starts in just 30 short days (September 7)! Voters have three weeks left to register, and absentee ballots are already being requested. more »
08 Aug
2011
Press Release: Padgett Campaign Gaining Momentum - $45,015 Raised In July“I continue to be humbled and grateful by the support I have received from the community,” said Padgett. “The financial support is needed, but more important is the growing number of Knoxville voters joining our campaign to keep Knoxville moving forward. As I knock on doors and meet with families and businesses across the city, one thing is clear: Knoxvillians want a mayor focused on growing our economy so we can invest in our neighborhoods and improve city services. With just thirty days until voters head to the polls, I urge everyone to encourage their friends, families, and colleagues to register to vote.” more »
29 Jul
2011
Miss the Mayoral Debate? Watch it OnlineFull video of the mayoral debate, organized by the Knoxville Chamber of Commerce, WBIR-TV and 98.7FM more »
22 Jul
2011
Join Our Team: Fall Internships and VOLunteer Shifts AvailableHelp Mark Become the Next Mayor of Knoxville more »
19 Jul
2011
Video: Colonial Village Neighborhood Association DebateMayoral debate in South Knoxville more »
13 Jul
2011
Save the Date: Mayoral Debate and Rally on Thursday, July 28It’s not just a vote between candidates, it’s a choice between visions of the future of Knoxville – and more importantly – our specific plans to get there. more »
11 Jul
2011
Knoxville News Sentinel: A peek at campaign hubsLate Friday morning, he was there with seven interns and three staffers in a mostly quiet atmosphere. A mixture of work was under way, from making telephone calls to keeping records up to date. Stacks of yard signs were neatly arranged for volunteers to pick up on Saturday to distribute. And on Saturday, things were abuzz with volunteers out to get their assignments. more »
09 Jul
2011
Knoxville News Sentinel: Securing business supportIt's clear from the latest financial disclosures of the Knoxville mayoral candidates that the business community that supports political candidates, most of whom are Republicans, is endorsing Mark Padgett, a Democrat and son of former longtime Knox County Clerk Mike Padgett. more »
08 Jul
2011
Knoxville News Sentinel: Mark Padgett sets pace in funds raised in Knoxville mayoral race"Our campaign is focused on growing the economy," Padgett said. "We are getting a lot of support from the business community, but we're also getting a lot of support from neighborhoods, individuals, people in not-for-profits. We're getting support from a lot of people." more »
08 Jul
2011
WBIR: Knoxville mayoral candidates discuss financial reportsMark Padgett's campaign took in $146,865. He said he thinks it's because people really agree with his vision for a growing Knoxville. "Growing jobs and the economy is the number one thing we're looking at, but also making sure our neighborhoods are safe and strong and well connected," explained Padgett. more »
06 Jul
2011
Knox Views: Padgett's Fundraising Totals Against Three Political Pros Are Flat-Out Impressive...I think this is going to translate into a Rogero-Padgett run-off with Padgett putting up a pretty tough fight and not conceding any geographic section of town. Game-on. more »
06 Jul
2011
Press Release: Padgett Releases Quarterly Fundraising Totals"I'm honored by the support I have received from voters who want a mayor with business experience, energy, and a fresh perspective in city government," said Mark Padgett. "Our vision for a vibrant and growing Knoxville is clearly resonating with families and businesses from all corners of the city. Together, we are building a campaign focused on growing Knoxville's economy to strengthen our neighborhoods and improve city services." more »
05 Jul
2011
Metro Pulse: Mark Padgett Adds Some Haslams To His Donor ListIn all, Padgett is reporting a preliminary amount of $140,000 raised in the last quarter, for a total to date of over $265,000, with cash on hand of more than $160,000. Other names of note on his list include Tim Williams, CEO of 21st Mortgage, and the PAC of Congressman Heath Shuler. more »
20 Jun
2011
Audio: Interview on WNOX (100.3 FM)Audio of Mark on the Ed and Bob show more »
15 Jun
2011
Video: Discussion with Entrepreneurs of Knoxville (EoK)Great discussion this morning with Entrepreneurs of Knoxville on jobs, the local economy, and how we can encourage/support entrepreneurs. It's why Mark is running and what sets him apart from his opponents. This is a great local group - please check them out (http://www.eokhq.com/). more »
14 Jun
2011
Press Release: Padgett Submits Candidate Nominating Petition"As Mayor, I will focus on creating jobs and growing our economy, which will lead to stronger neighborhoods and improved city services," said Mr. Padgett. "The only way we're going to make Knoxville an even better place to live is by working together, and I'm honored by the diverse and broad support my campaign has received. Over the coming months, I look forward to a spirited debate about different visions of Knoxville's future - and more importantly - our specific plans to move Knoxville forward." more »
01 Jun
2011
Press Release: Padgett Applauds City's Diverse Pension Reform Task Force"With substantial tax dollars at stake, Knoxvillians should have the right to attend and observe all task force meetings. This is a complex problem that's going to require complex solutions. Public meetings will help inspire confidence in the group's recommendations and help to ensure that we're protecting taxpayers and honoring commitments to our dedicated city employees." more »
27 May
2011
Knoxville News Sentinel: Forum for mayoral candidates focuses on growth, more jobs"We need a mayor who speaks the language of business," Mark Padgett, founder of government software provider eGovernment Solutions, told some 40 forum attendees at Fourth United Presbyterian Church on North Broadway. more »
25 May
2011
South Knox/Seymour Times: Mark Padgett Discusses Upcoming Election & S. Knoxville"I want to help Knoxville realize its full potential - we need to harness all of our resources and talent to become a world-class city with a booming economy and high quality of life. For South Knoxville, I hope to make a lot of redevelopment projects a reality. We have spent millions on planning, but the next Mayor of Knoxville has to take those plans into reality. That means securing investment from the private sector, and as Mayor, this will be one of my top priorities." more »
12 May
2011
Knoxify: Better Know A Candidate: Mark PadgettThis fall, the city of Knoxville will elect a new Mayor and City Council members (see helpful explanation here). This series is intended to inform our readers on the various candidates and hopefully help illustrate the real people behind the campaigns. more »
09 May
2011
Knoxville News Sentinel: Padgett opens base for raceA little history was mixed with food and fellowship at the opening of the campaign headquarters for Knoxville mayoral candidate Mark Padgett at 117 S. Gay St. more »
09 May
2011
Video: WBIR: Padgett opens campaign officeTV clip from our campaign HQ's (117 South Gay Street) open house more »
06 May
2011
Knoxville Daily Sun: Mark Padgett -- A Born LeaderExcerpt: I can tell you that Mark Padgett's parents raised a leader. At 33 years old Padgett's no-nonsense business mind comes shining through in his entire presence. He's well-beyond his years and if he's elected Knoxville Mayor you can be assured that you and your city are in good hands. more »
05 May
2011
Video: Mother's Day Message from Mark's familyA Mother's Day Message from Mark Padgett - and his wife Katie, mother Patty, and Granny. more »
27 Apr
2011
Two Online Polls: Vote for Mark!Show your support on Political Leverage and the Knoxville News Sentinel more »
21 Apr
2011
Press Release: Dedicated to Putting Knoxville First"I'm 100 percent dedicated to strengthening Knoxville's economy and quality of life. The next Mayor of Knoxville is going to need the skills and ability to support existing local businesses, create jobs, recruit new companies, bolster emerging industries like solar, strengthen our neighborhoods, and continue the progress of downtown. As the only small business owner on the ballot, I'm uniquely qualified to move Knoxville forward into a world-class city with a great quality of life and booming economy." more »
15 Apr
2011
Knoxville Journal: Padgett continuing to earn trust on campaign trailBusinessman Mark Padgett is trying to bring his business skills into the political arena, as he continues his campaign to become Knoxville's next mayor. more »
13 Apr
2011
Tennessee Journalist: UT hosts forum for Knoxville mayoral candidatesKnoxville's mayoral candidates met face to face for a forum Tuesday night at the UT College of Law. more »
13 Apr
2011
Video: Political Leverage Interviews MarkInterview with Mark Padgett after a north Knoxville town hall meeting on 4/12/11 more »
12 Apr
2011
Video: Political Leverage Interviews MarkInterview with Mark Padgett after the West Knoxville GOP meeting on 4/11/11. more »
09 Mar
2011
Knoxville Journal: City Council postpones Pension Task Force vote"Open meetings should not be a political issue," Padgett said. "Knoxvillians deserve better than that. To me it's a cut and dry issue. Sometimes with the best intentions we miss the mark. I believe in this case what we have is some very dedicated public servants who are committed to offering solutions to the rising costs of pensions." more »
09 Mar
2011
Metro Pulse: Knoxville Mayoral Candidate Profile: Mark Padgett"I believe the mayor of a city is the executive, kind of the chief executive, of a city, and I'm the only candidate that has experience doing that," Padgett says. "I'm the only candidate I know of running for mayor that's ever created a job." more »
08 Mar
2011
News Sentinel: Editorial: Shine sunlight on pension meetingsThe Knoxville City Council tonight will consider a resolution calling for the city's special Pension Task Force to conduct its meetings in public... City Council should approve the measure and Brown should honor the request. Bringing the task force's important work into the public realm would build trust in the recommendations it will give to resolving the city's growing pension funding problems. more »
06 Mar
2011
Knoxville Daily Sun: Mark Padgett On Private Pension Task Force Meetings...Concerned with public trust and confidence Padgett continues by saying there's 9 million dollars of taxpayer money at stake and that number is going to rise to 30 million by 2019. Exactly how the City of Knoxville is going to deal with this rising cost is a major concern to every tax-paying Knoxville citizen. more »
03 Mar
2011
Press Release: Padgett Applauds City Council Member Palmer's Open Meeting ResolutionMayoral candidate Mark Padgett today applauded City Council Member Brenda Palmer for sponsoring a resolution in support of open meetings for the city's Pension Task Force, which will offer recommendations to improve the rising costs of pensions to the next Mayor. more »
28 Feb
2011
Press Release: It's Time for City to Make Pension Task Force Meetings PublicAfter public outcry, the city of Knoxville has yet to reverse its decision to make the Pension Task Force, which will offer recommendations to improve the rising costs of pensions, meetings public. In response, Mark Padgett, 2011 Mayoral candidate issued the following... more »
25 Feb
2011
News Sentinel: Editorial: Pension panel should meet in publicOfficials should reconsider the plans for the committee. Secret discussions don't increase candor so much as they multiply suspicions. Employees could think they've been sold out. Taxpayers can't have confidence their best interests are taken into account. No one wins. more »
25 Feb
2011
News Sentinel: Knoxville Mayoral Candidate Mark Padgett Wary of Closed Pension MeetingsKnoxville mayoral candidate Mark Padgett on Thursday asked that officials reverse their position that the new Pension Task Force meetings be closed to the public. Courtesy of Knox News Sentinel more »
24 Feb
2011
Press Release: Padgett Asks Bill Lyons and Mayor Brown to Open Pension Study Committee Meetings to the PublicThe Knoxville News Sentinel reported today that the city's new Pension Task Force, which will offer recommendations to improve the rising costs of pensions, may hold some meetings in private. In response, Mark Padgett, 2011 Mayoral candidate, sent the following letter to Chairman Bill Lyons and Mayor Daniel Brown: more »
15 Feb
2011
News Sentinel and Daily Sun: Padgett Kicks-Off Campaign With "Several Hundred" PeopleThe Knox News Sentinel & Knoxville Daily Sun review Mark Padgett's Campaign Kick-Off. more »
08 Feb
2011
Press Release: Padgett Kicks Off Mayoral Campaign February 10th, 5:30 at L & N StationKnoxville businessman, Mark Padgett announced today he will host a Kick Off Celebration launching his mayoral campaign at the historic L & N Station at 5:30 on Thursday February 10th. more »
03 Feb
2011
Press Release: Padgett Announces Listening TourBusinessman Mark Padgett, candidate for Knoxville City Mayor, announced today that he will begin his Hands on Knoxville Listening Tour with the COIN Forum on Monday, February 7th 7:00pm at Church Street United Methodist Church. more »
31 Jan
2011
Event: Official Campaign Kick-OffJoin us for our Official Campaign Kick-Off on Thursday, February 10th 5:30pm at the L & N Station in Worlds Fair Park. There will be food, entertainment and fellowship and the event is free to the public. more »
26 Jan
2011
Metro Pulse: Mayoral Candidate Mark Padgett Lines Up Support, FundingMark Padgett made a major move in the Knoxville mayor's race this week, releasing an impressive campaign contribution total more than a week before his competition will report. It raised eyebrows and got him street cred among political junkies. more »
26 Jan
2011
News Sentinel: Mayoral Candidate Mark Padgett Comments on Henley Street Bridge ConstructionMark Padgett may have raised the most interesting point. Padgett said many people would like to see a larger pedestrian component to the Henley Street Bridge. more »
24 Jan
2011
Thank You Everyone!I would like to thank everyone for their enthusiasm and support of my campaign. With your help, we raised over $10,000/week in the first reporting period. more »
17 Jan
2011
Press Release: Padgett Honors Dr. Martin Luther KingBusinessman Mark Padgett, a candidate for Knoxville City Mayor, honored the legacy of Dr. King today by joining 30 local area children in the Memorial March down Martin Luther King, Jr. Ave. The young people carried replicas of signs from the 1963 March on Washington where Dr. King delivered his famous "I Have a Dream" speech. more »
14 Jan
2011
Knoxville Journal Profiles Mark PadgettRecently the Knoxville Journal sent a set of six questions to the candidates running for City Mayor so that voters can compare the answers when making a decision about voting. Here are Mark Padgett's responses. more »
10 Jan
2011
Press Release: Padgett Congratulates Interim Mayor BrownBusinessman Mark Padgett, a candidate for Knoxville City Mayor, congratulated Councilman Daniel Brown, who was elected Monday to serve as interim mayor. Brown replaces Mayor Bill Haslam, who resigned Monday and will be sworn in later this week as governor. more »
20 Dec
2010
Knoxville Business Journal included Padgett in "40 Under 40" listFive years ago, Mark Padgett realized he could make government more accessible and efficient with technology. more »
08 Dec
2010
Press Release: Padgett launches Web site, first televised adBusinessman Mark Padgett stepped up his campaign for City Mayor this week, announcing his campaign Web site and airing his first TV ad. more »
06 Dec
2010
Halls Shopper News: Betty Bean profiles MarkUntil last week, Mark Padgett says nobody ever asked why he didn't run for City Council instead of jumping into the crowded field of experienced candidates who want to be the next mayor of Knoxville. more »
19 Nov
2010
WBIR Coverage of Padgett's Annoucement to Run for Knoxville City MayorWatch John Becker interview Mark Padgett about his announcement to seek election as Knoxville City's next Mayor. more »
17 Nov
2010
News Sentinel: Padgett Declares Candidacy for MayorPadgett cited three priorities on which the next mayor should be focused - creating and attracting more 21st-century jobs, making the city more user-friendly and continuing improvements downtown. more »
15 Nov
2010
Press Release: Padgett Declares Candidacy for Knoxville City MayorLocal businessman Mark Padgett announced Monday that he is a candidate for City Mayor, saying he believes it has never been more important who we choose as Knoxville's next mayor. more »

No events scheduled. Please check back later.