Robert Sorrell

BLOUNTVILLE, Tenn. — After more than three decades of public service, Sullivan County Mayor Richard Venable announced this week that he will not seek reelection when his term ends in 2026.

"I have had the high privilege of serving the people of Sullivan County for the last 15 years as mayor, and in other elected and appointed positions for the past 35 years," Venable said in a statement. "It has been the greatest honor of my public life to have done so, and I want to again thank our citizens for bestowing that honor."

Venable, who previously served as county mayor from 2002 to 2006 before being re-elected in 2014, reflected on his long career in business and public service. He worked and learned at a trade at Holston Defense, held a leadership role for 16 years with the f

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