After 43 years of dedication to improving Sevier County’s roads, Highway Superintendent Jonas Smelcer is set to resign at the end of this month. Official news released by Sevier County’s website states that Smelcer, a figure who’s been at the helm since 1982, has witnessed the transformation from rural pathways to the now fully paved 1,000 miles of county roads.
Elected when still many a road were made of mere dirt and rock, Smelcer’s tenure saw an entire transportation revolution within the county. Sevier County Mayor Larry Waters commended Smelcer’s commitment, saying, “Jonas Smelcer has dedicated his career to improving and maintaining our county’s roads and infrastructure,” and that “he will be dearly missed.” These sentiments echo a widespread appreciation for a regime that prioritized progress and connectivity for its residents.
With Smelcer’s departure, Tennessee law allows the superintendent to choose an interim successor, and he has put forward Donnie Adams, his longtime Assistant Director, to fill the void. Adams will assume the role of Interim Highway Superintendent, ensuring the continuity of leadership and no interruption in county services…