The Great Smoky Mountain Journal

Staff, Wire Reports

Posted: Sunday, January 21, 2018 06:31 PM

Gatlinburg City Commissioner Mike Helton Passes Away After Long Illness

GATLINBURG, Tenn. (SOURCE: CITY OF GATLINBURG)) - Gatlinburg City Commissioner Mike Helton passed away after a long illness, according to Marci Claude of the Gatlinburg Convention and Visitors Bureau.

Commissioner Helton was first appointed to the Gatlinburg Board of Commissioners at a Special Called Meeting in November of 2000 to fill the unexpired term of George Hawkins.

Commissioner Helton was elected in 2003 and reelected in 2007, 2011 and in 2015. He also served five terms as Vice Mayor and four terms as Mayor.

City Manager Cindy Cameron Ogle issued this statement following the death of Commissioner Helton:

"Mike contributed greatly to the City. He was a consistent and calm influence and a constant source of support. He was appointed to commission in 2000, elected in 2003 and reelected in three subsequent elections. During his time on commission, several major projects were undertaken by the City including the undergrounding of utilities along the Parkway, the renovation of Mills Conference Center and the building of Rocky Top Sports World. He was committed to the future of Gatlinburg and worked hard to see the City continue to improve and grow and his absence will be deeply felt by everyone in the Gatlinburg community and area."

Gatlinburg Mayor Mike Werner also commented on the Commissioner:

"What a pleasure and privilege it was to serve with Mike Helton for these last 17 years on City Commission. He was a great friend and person to work with and his word was always his bond. He always had good input and was very fair and steady and solid. There are so many things to say about Mike Helton and his impact, not just on the City but the county as well. He will be sorely missed by his fellow commissioners and everyone in the Gatlinburg community and area."