JOE SHULTS for a better tomorrow
JOE E. SHULTS
Cocke County Mayor
Official Announcement: Candidacy for Cocke County Mayor
After much prayerful thought and encouragement from family, friends, and community members, I am officially announcing my candidacy for Mayor of Cocke County.
For the past 38 years, I’ve proudly built and operated multiple successful businesses right her in Cocke County. My roots run deep, and my commitment to this community is personal. I understand the value of hard work , accountability, and smart decision-making- and I’m ready to bring that same mindset to county leadership.
In addition to my business experience, I’ve been honored to serve in a leadership roles at both the state and national levels. I served 9 years asVice President and 6 years as President of the Tennessee State Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF). Currently, I sit on theNational Board of Directors for the NWTF and proudly as Chair of the Audit Committee, while also serving on the Finance, By Law, and Building Committees. I also served for 15 years on the Tennessee State Superfund Budget Committee, working on environmental, habitat,management,and public health priorities.
These roles have given me valuable insight into budgeting, planning, and long-term organizational growth-all skills I believe are vital to leading Cocke County into a stronger and more stable future.
I was born and raised in this county and I love this county and believe in its potential. With your support, I’ll bring steadyleadership, fiscal responsibility, and a results-driven approach to the Mayor’s office.
I am excited to listen to your concerns , share my vision, and work together as a community fora better tomorrow.
ONE OF US FOR ALL OF US
8-Year Strategic Plan for Cocke County, Tennessee
Presented by Joe Shults, Candidate for County Mayor
“Building a Stronger Future — Together.”
Vision Statement
Cocke County deserves a future built on honesty, accountability, and opportunity.
Over the next eight years, we will rebuild trust in local government, strengthen our economy, improve infrastructure, and give our citizens the quality of life they deserve.
This plan is built on one simple promise: to put people before politics and progress before excuses.
Core Goals
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Stabilize county finances and restore trust in government
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Create jobs and recruit new industry and small business
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Invest in infrastructure, education, and workforce development
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Strengthen public safety and community well-being
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Protect our natural beauty and build sustainable growth
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Prepare the next generation of leaders for the future
Phase 1: Years 1–2 — Stabilization and Trust
Objectives:
We will start by restoring fiscal responsibility and rebuilding public confidence in county government.
Key Initiatives:
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Conduct a full financial and operational audit of every county department.
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Eliminate waste, streamline services, and ensure every tax dollar is used wisely.
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Launch an Online Transparency Portal so citizens can see where every dollar goes.
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Modernize record keeping, permitting, and online payment systems.
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Hold quarterly town hall meetings and create citizen advisory boards for public input.
Expected Outcomes:
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A balanced budget within two years.
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Public trust restored through open communication and visible progress.
Phase 2: Years 3–4 — Infrastructure and Workforce Investment
Objectives:
Build the foundation for economic growth by improving infrastructure and investing in our people.
Key Initiatives:
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Prioritize road repairs, bridges, water systems, and broadband expansion.
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Partner with state and federal programs to fund these improvements.
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Work with schools and community colleges to expand vocational and trade training.
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Create apprenticeship programs with local employers.
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Support adult education and re-entry programs for those seeking new career paths.
Expected Outcomes:
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Stronger infrastructure and better access to modern utilities.
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A more skilled and competitive local workforce ready for new job opportunities.
Phase 3: Years 5–6 — Economic Growth and Expansion
Objectives:
Attract new businesses, strengthen small business growth, and create long-term job opportunities.
Key Initiatives:
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Establish a Cocke County Business Development Office to recruit and assist employers.
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Offer incentives for small business start-ups and expansions.
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Develop industrial and commercial properties ready for new investment.
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Expand tourism by promoting our mountains, rivers, and heritage.
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Launch a Downtown Revitalization Program to bring pride and life back to our communities.
Expected Outcomes:
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New businesses bringing good-paying jobs to Cocke County.
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A diversified economy built on manufacturing, tourism, and agriculture.
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A renewed sense of local pride and prosperity.
Phase 4: Years 7–8 — Sustainability and Leadership Transition
Objectives:
Ensure that the progress we make is long-lasting and that future leaders are prepared to carry it forward.
Key Initiatives:
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Create a County Reserve Fund to protect against future downturns.
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Reduce county debt through responsible fiscal management.
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Establish a Youth Leadership Academy to engage young people in community service and leadership.
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Expand environmental and renewable energy initiatives.
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Protect our natural resources for future generations.
Expected Outcomes:
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A strong, financially stable county government.
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A new generation of leaders ready to continue the work.
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Long-term sustainable growth that protects what makes Cocke County special.
Commitment to the People of Cocke County
As your County Mayor, I will lead with integrity, transparency, and common sense.
This 8-year plan isn’t about politics — it’s about results.
Together, we can restore pride, rebuild our economy, and make Cocke County the model of what small-town leadership can accomplish when people work together.
Let’s write the next chapter of Cocke County’s story — together.