Town Council will accept applications for Town of Cohutta Mayor from June 1, 2026, through July 1, 2026. Please email your completed application to sandyc@townofcohutta.com.
Interim Mayor Sandy Clayborne
Town Councilmember Sandy Clayborne was appointed Vice Mayor on May 20, 2026, and assumed the role of Interim Mayor on that same date after the resignation of Mayor Ron Shinnick. Mrs. Clayborne will lead the transition and process of appointing a new Mayor to fill out the term vacated by Mr. Shinnick.
Mayor Ron Shinnick
Term 2014-May 15, 2026
Growth and Vision
As Mayor of Cohutta, Ron Shinnick helped initiate many changes to the Town of Cohutta. Some of his many accomplishments were the negotiation with Dalton Utilities for the addition of public sewer, navigating the process of adding beer and wine licenses to attract new restaurants, and more. His vision was to honor the small-town character that makes our community special while preparing responsibly for a stronger, more connected future. Ron said, "Cohutta's greatest strength is its people, and our progress will be built on supporting families, local businesses, and the natural beauty that surrounds us."
Mayor Don Henderson
Don Henderson served as mayor from 1970 to 2014. He was the town's first mayor.
From his obituary:
He was a lifelong resident of Cohutta, a community he dedicated his life and love to. A member of the Cohutta Ruritan Club for over 70 years, he helped start the Cohutta Volunteer Fire Department and served as its Chief for many years. Later on, he helped write the initial charter for the Town of Cohutta and was elected its first Mayor, a position he held for 44 years.
If you were in a hurry, you were in trouble with Don. But if you wanted to sit and talk for hours, you could find no one better. He was a man who loved his family, his farm and his community. Along with his family farm, Don also had The Henderson Insurance Agency and Don’s Sundries.