Public Entity Partners Honors Board Members with Distinguished and Dedicated Service Awards

At the September Board meeting, Public Entity Partners proudly recognized Mayor Lois Preece of the City of Niota and Mayor Randy Brundige of the City of Martin with Distinguished and Dedicated Service Awards for their exceptional leadership and years of service on our Board of Directors.

Mayor Preece, Niota’s longest-serving mayor with 14 years in office, has brought nearly $4 million in grant funding to her community, improving infrastructure and hosting events that celebrate local history and culture. She was also honored with the Febb Ensminger Burn Woman of the Year Award in 2024. Known as the “face, heart and spirit” of Niota, she has spent her career working to create a safe and welcoming community.

Mayor Brundige has served Martin as mayor since 2002, earning recognition as the 2022 Tennessee Municipal League Mayor of the Year. Under his leadership, Martin has completed major projects, including a new library, police station, fire station, city hall and recreation complex. His expertise in finance and economic development made him a strong voice during his two terms on the PE Partners Board, including service as vice-chairman and chairman.

In addition, Todd Smith, former City Manager of the Town of Greeneville, was presented with a Distinguished and Dedicated Service Award during the TCMA Conference in Kingsport, Tennessee. Appointed as Greeneville’s first City Manager in 2011, he led the community through a period of growth and revitalization, overseeing major projects such as a $13 million downtown redevelopment, a new $3.6 million fire station and the creation of a 20-acre public park on a former landfill. Under his leadership, Greeneville attracted more than $20 million in new business investments. Smith’s career reflects a deep commitment to public service, including 22 years in the U.S. Air Force, where he retired as a Lieutenant Colonel.

We thank Mayor Preece, Mayor Brundige and Todd Smith for their dedication, leadership and lasting impact on our organization and the communities they serve.