Information regarding business, industry, and or economic development; entrepreneurial endeavors; tourism; media relations; or for official RFI (request for information) requests. Business Development There are tremendous opportunities to grow and develop your business here in Johnson County. For information or questions regarding business, industry, and or economic development; entrepreneurial endeavors; tourism; media relations; or for official RFI (request for information) requests, please contact: Johnson County Mayor Larry Potter 222 West Main Street Mountain City, TN. 37683 (423) 727-9696 Email us! Online Business Development Resources Johnson County Chamber of Commerce MainStreet Tenneessee Tennessee Valley Authority The First Tennessee Development TN 3 Star Community

Johnson County is one of 92 county governments in Tennessee along with three other counties with a consolidated form of government where the county and city government have combined. Johnson County, Tennessee, Board of Commissioners Photo credit: Dennis Shekinah Johnson County is one of 95 county governments in Tennessee, three of which have a consolidated form of government where the county and city government have combined. County Governments are a creation of the State of Tennessee. The structure of county government is established in the State Constitution, providing a basic framework for governance. Counties are usually governed by an elected body, called the County Commission. A County Mayor and 15 County Commissioners govern Johnson County. Johnson County Commission District Maps are available here: Download PDF version Johnson County Mayor Larry Potter Johnson County Courthouse 222 West Main Street Mountain City, TN. 37683 (423) 727-9696 Commission Chair Freddy Phipps District 3 268 Paul McGlammery Ln. Trade, TN 37691 (423) 440-3311 Commission Vice-Chair Robert G. “Jerry” Grindstaff District 3 1345 Stout Branch Rd. Mountain City, TN 37683 (423) 727-4415 Commissioner District 1 Brian Taylor 711 Gentry Creek Rd Laurel Bloomery, TN. 37680 (423) 291-7446 Commissioner District 1 Eugene Campbell 755 Sugar Creek Rd. Laurel Bloomery, TN 37680 (423) 727-8054 Commissioner District 4 Tommy Poore 1085 R.D. Campbell Rd. Butler, TN 37640 (423) 768-3639 Commissioner District 1 Rick Wallace 348 Oakhills Ln Mountain City TN 37683 (828) 964-3519 Commissioner District 4 Tracy Greer 89 Dugger Hollow Road Mountain City, TN. 37640 (423) 727-6024 Commissioner District 2 Lester Ray Dunn 167 Brown Road Mountain City, TN. 37683 (423) 727-6024 Commissioner District 5 Jerry Gentry 1848 Harbin Hill Rd. Mountain City, TN 37683 (423) 741-1068 Commissioner District 3 Cody Isaac Osborne 716 Arnold Town Road Mountain City, TN. 37683 (423) 727-9992 Commissioner District 5 Jimmy Lowe 9560 Hwy 67 W Butler, TN 37640 (423) 727-5081 Commissioner District 5 Megan McEwen 816 Timothy Branch Rd. Butler, TN 37640 (423) 213-0040 Commissioner District 6 Huey L. Long 794 Hwy 133 Shady Valley, TN. 37688 (423) 739-5350 Commissioner District 7 Gina Meade 158 Walnut St. Mountain City, TN 37683 (423) 727-5615 Commissioner District 7 Kody Norris 110 Georgia St Mountain City, TN. 37683 423-430-0792

Location, contact information and links for the Johnson County TN Senior Center located in Mountain City. CALL 423-460-6012 FOR INFORMATION OR SERVICE MyRide is a transportation program for the seniors 60+ of Johnson County, TN. We have well trained and background checked volunteer drivers. The transportation can be for anything from grocery shopping to hair dresser or pharmacy etc. Call us if you need rides and can ambulate on your own or using a walker or cane (no wheelchairs). We are always accepting new qualifying riders or volunteer drivers. The funding for this project was provided by a grant awarded by the Davidson County Chancery Court, Part III from the Senior Trust/Elder Trust Settlement (Case No. 11-1548-111) and through a contract administered by the Tennessee Commission on Aging and Disability. Follow MyRide Johnson County on Facebook ! Johnson County Senior Center 128 College Street | Mountain City, Tennessee Phone: 423-727-8883 Visit their website here ! Click for Senior Center Facebook Page Hours 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM WATCH OUR VIDEO TO LEARN MORE!

Pursuant to Tenn. Code Ann. § 10-7-503(g), the following Public Records Policy for Johnson County, TN Government is hereby adopted by the Johnson County Commission to provide economical and efficient access to public records as provided under the Tennessee Public Records Act (“TPRA”) in Tenn. Code Ann. § 10-7-501, et seq. JOHNSON COUNTY ARCHIVED COMMISSION DOCUMENTS All documents are in PDF format and require a viewer to open the file. 2023 PUBLIC NOTICES & AGENDAS PUBLIC NOTICE: Planning Commission Meeting - Monday, January 9, 2023 PUBLIC NOTICE: Quarterly Commission Meeting - Thursday, January 19, 2023 PUBLIC NOTICE: Accounts & Budget Committee Meeting - Thursday, January 19, 2023 PUBLIC NOTICE: Quarterly County Commission Meeting - Thursday, January 19, 2023 MEETING AGENDA: Commission Meeting Quarterly Agenda - January 19 , 2023 PUBLIC NOTICE: Accounts & Budget Committee Meeting - Thursday, February 16, 2023 PUBLIC NOTICE: County Commission Meeting - Thursday, February 16, 2023 MEETING AGENDA: Commission Meeting Agenda - Thursday, February 16, 2023 PUBLIC NOTICE/AGENDA: Special-Called Commission Meeting - Thursday, March 2, 2023 PUBLIC NOTICE: Public Records Commission Meeting - Wednesday, March 15, 2023 PUBLIC NOTICE: Budget Meeting - Thursday, March 16, 2023 PUBLIC NOTICE: County Commission Meeting - Thursday, March 16, 2023 PUBLIC NOTICE: Court Security Committee - Monday, March 27, 2023 PUBLIC NOTICE: Planning Commission Meeting - Monday, April 17, 2023 PUBLIC NOTICE: Budget Meeting - Thursday, April 20, 2023 PUBLIC NOTICE: Quarterly County Commission Meeting - Thursday, April 20, 2023 PUBLIC NOTICE: Joint ECD Committee Meeting - Wednesday, April 26, 2023 PUBLIC NOTICE: Budget Committee Meetings : Mondays: May 8, 15 & 22, 2023 PUBLIC NOTICE: Beer Commission Meetin g - Monday, May 8, 2023 PUBLIC NOTICE: Planning Commission Meeting - Monday. May 8, 2023 PUBLIC NOTICE: Solid Waste Committee Meeting - Thursday, May 11, 2023 PUBLIC NOTICE/AGENDA: Special Called Meeting - Thursday, May 11, 2023 AGENDA PACKET: County Commission Meeting - Thursday, May 18. 2023 PUBLIC NOTICE: Beer Commission Meetin g - Tuesday, May 30, 2023 PUBLIC NOTICE: Public Safety Committee Meeting - Tuesday, June 6, 2023 PUBLIC NOTICE & AGENDA : Joint ECD Committee Meeting - Wednesday, June 7, 2023 PUBLIC NOTICE & AGENDA : JC Planning Commission Meeting - Monday, June 12, 2023 PUBLIC NOTICE & AGENDA : County Commission Meeting: Thursday, June 15, 2023 AMENDED AGENDA: County Commission Meeting: Thursday, June 15, 2023 PUBLIC NOTICE : Beer Commission Meeting: Monday, July 3, 2023 PUBLIC NOTICE & AGENDA: Budget Committee: Monday, July 10, 2023 PUBLIC NOTICE & AGENDA: Special Called Meeting: Monday, July 10, 2023 PUBLIC NOTICE & AGENDA : Planning Commission Meeting: Tuesday, July 11, 2023 PUBLIC NOTICE & AGENDA : County Commission Meeting: Thursday, July 20, 2023 PUBLIC NOTICE & AGENDA PACKET : County Commission Meeting Thursday, 8/17/23 PUBLIC NOTICE & AGENDA PACKET : Budget & Commission Meetings, Thursday, 9/21/23 PUBLIC NOTICE & AGENDA PACKET : Budget & Commission Meetings, Thursday, 10/19/23 SPECIAL CALLED MEETING : To appoint Interim Sheriff - Monday, October 23, 2023 PUBLIC NOTICE & AGENDA PACKET : Commission Meetings, Thursday, 11/16/23 PUBLIC NOTICE & AGENDA: Planning Commission Meeting, Monday, 12/11/2023 PUBLIC NOTICE & AGENDA : Joint ECD Meeting, Wednesday, 12/20/2023 PUBLIC NOTICE & AGENDA: Budget & County Commission Meeting, Thursday, 12/21/2023 MONTHLY COUNTY COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES July 2022 August 2022 September 2022 October 2022 November 2022 December 2022 January 2023 February 2023 March 2023 April 2023 May 2023 SPECIAL MEETING May 2023 June & July 2023 August 2023 September 2023 October 2023 November 2023 December 2023 Find 2024 records here. Please note that previous years predate the launch of the website and are not available electronically.

The organization of Johnson County took place in 1836 and was named for Thomas Johnson, a leading citizen of Carter County and an early settler on the Doe River. History of Johnson County In 1761, Daniel Boone came through the area that is now Johnson County. There were two early settlements in the area in the late 1760’s and the 1770’s. One settlement was known as “The Trade Gap”, which was a trading post for Indians and traders, in the south east side of the county. This community is now known as Trade . The other early settlement was on Roane Creek, near the confluence with the Watauga River. Other settlements were made soon after further up Roane Creek and on Little Doe. The organization of Johnson County took place in 1836 and was named for Thomas Johnson, a leading citizen of Carter County and an early settler on the Doe River. Johnson County was created from parts of Carter County, because of the long distance to travel to the county seat in Elizabethton. The first session of the county court was begun and held at the Pleasant Grove School House on May 2, 1836. In October of 1836, the county commissioners were given authority to contract for the building of a court house. It took about a year to complete the structure. Two years later the jail was completed. In 1836, the county seat was originally named Taylorsville in honor of Colonel James Taylor. The name was changed to Mountain City in the 1885, to reflect it being in one of the highest valleys in Tennessee. Because the county was so remote, the railroads did not reach the area until the early 1900’s. The arrival of the railroads greatly influenced the development of the timber and manganese mining industries. Learn more about our rich heritage by visiting the Johnson County Museum in Mountain City and the Museum of Butler !

Johnson County is the northeastern most county in Tennessee, sharing borders with Virginia and North Carolina. Communities are Mountain City, Butler, Cold Springs, Doe Valley, Dry Run, Forge Creek, Shouns, Laurel Bloomery, Shady Valley and Trade. Johnson County Tennessee Communities Johnson County is the northeastern most county in Tennessee, sharing borders with Virginia and North Carolina. The county is situated entirely in the Blue Ridge Mountains and is made up of many small towns and communities situated over four mountains, three valleys and along one big lake. It is one of the highest counties in Tennessee, and it has a total area of 303 square miles, of which 298 square miles is land and 4.2 square miles is water. Mountain City is the largest town in the county and serves as the county seat. The county is governed by a Board of Commissioners and a county mayor. There are (8) voting districts in the county represented by 15 Commissioners. The county is located within Tennessee’s 1st congressional district. Johnson County was created in 1836 from parts of Carter County, where Elizabethton was the county seat. The residents of what is now Johnson County tried for years to get the county to move the seat to a more central location, because it was so difficult to travel to Elizabethton. Their formal petition was rejected by the county, so they petitioned the state legislature for the creation of a new county. The new county was named after Thomas Johnson, an early settler. Mainly due to the remoteness of the county, the railroads did not reach Johnson County until the early 1900’s. The arrival of the railroad greatly helped the development of the timber and manganese mining industries. Butler, TN Butler is an unincorporated community in Johnson County, Tennessee, and is located along the northern shore of Watauga Lake. Butler is served by a Post Office assigned zip code 37640. The community is part of the voting district # 4 area of the county. The settlement of what is now known as Butler began in 1768. The town was originally located on Roan Creek at its confluence with the Watauga River, and the community was originally called Smith’s Mill for the gristmill built on the bank of the Roan Creek in 1820. After the civil war, it was renamed in honor of Colonel Roderick R. Butler. Aenon Seminary, a secondary school, was established in Butler in 1871. It later became Holly Springs College. In the 1906, it was purchased by the Watauga Baptist Association and renamed Watauga Academy. It operated under that name until 1948, when the town was inundated by the formation of Watauga Lake, and the town was relocated to higher ground to make way for the lake. The original town is now known as “Old Butler” and is called “The Town That Wouldn’t Drown”. The history and relocation of Butler is documented at the Butler Museum, which has incredible exhibits and original pictures on display presenting the long history, the Appalachian culture and the relocation of the original town to its current location. Cold Springs, TN The Cold Springs community is located in Johnson County, Tennessee, and it is located right outside of Mountain City. The primary coordinates of the community place it within the 37683 zip code delivery area of Mountain City. The community is part of the voting district #1 area of the county. In or near the community are the Second District Volunteer Fire Department and several businesses. The history of the community was rooted in farming and today there are still many farms in the area. Doe Valley, TN Doe Valley is an unincorporated community in Johnson County, Tennessee, and it is situated in the upper Doe Creek Valley between Iron Mountains to the north and Doe Mountain to the south. The community is located along Hwy 67 between Mountain City and Butler. It is near the communities of Pandora to the southwest and Dewey to the northeast. The primary coordinates for Doe Valley places it within the 37683 zip code delivery area of Mountain City. The community is part of the voting district #5 area of the county. Doe Valley is the location of the Tennessee Department of Correction’s Northeast Correctional Complex and the Johnson County Chamber Park, which hosts an annual rodeo and other events. This community is home to the Doe Valley Elementary School and the Doe Valley Volunteer Fire Department. There are also a number of small businesses located inthe area. It is near Watauga Lake and the Cherokee National Forest. Dry Run, TN Dry Run is a small community in Johnson County, Tennessee and is located near Butler. The primary coordinates of the county place it within the 37640 zip code delivery area of Butler. The community is part of the voting district #4 area of the county. Located in the community are the Dry Run Volunteer Fire Department and the Dry Run Elementary School. There are also several businesses in this area including the Dry Hill General Store & Deli and the Watauga Lake Winery. Forge Creek / Shouns, TN The Forge Creek and Shouns community is located in Johnson County, and it is actually situated within the town of Mountain City. It has an elevation of 2303 feet with Forge Mountain rising to the east of the town. The primary coordinates of the community place it within the 37683 zip code delivery area of Mountain City. The community is part of the voting district #2 area of the county. In 1761 Daniel Boone came through the area that is now Johnson County. In the mid 1770’s, a settlement was established in the area called “The Trade Gap”, which was a trading post for Indians and traders. The area was renamed Trade, Tennessee and is the oldest community in the state. By the late 1770’s, Johnson County had a population of about 150 people, with a leading citizen being Leonard Shoun, who fathered 20 children, and for which Shoun’s Crossroads is named. Laurel Bloomery, TN Laurel Bloomery is an unincorporated community in Johnson County, Tennessee, and it is the northeastern most community in the state with an elevation of 2410 feet. It is located along Hwy 91 between Mountain City, Tennessee and Damascus, Virginia. Laurel Bloomery had a Post Office with an assigned zip code of 37680. It is now part of the Mountain City delivery area. The community is part of the voting district # 1 area of the county. The community was settled in the early 19th century. The community’s first bloomer forge mill was built and began operation in 1810. The mill was closed in 1870, but portions are still standing today. The community was named for the Laurel Creek between Damascus and Mountain City. The area is known for its’ beautiful mountains and secluded valleys. The area is home to some great hiking trails including the easier Laurel Creek Trail that meanders along the Laurel Creek and the more challenging Gentry Falls Trail leading to a double waterfall located in the back forest of the area. The Old Time Fiddlers Convention is held every year at the Old Mill Music Park. It marks the annual anniversary of the Mountain City Fiddlers Convention of 1925 that was held in nearby Mountain City. Musicians travel to this event to play and listen to old time folk and bluegrass music. Mountain City, TN Mountain City serves as the county seat of Johnson County, and it is the northeastern most county seat in Tennessee. It is the highest incorporated city in the state at an elevation of 2,418 feet. The town has a total area of 3.3 square miles, all being land. The town is situated in one of the highest valleys in the state. Forge Mountain rises to the east, Doe Mountain rises to the southwest and Iron Mountains rise to the north. Mountain City is just a few miles from both the Virginia and North Carolina state lines. US Hwy 421 connects Mountain City with Bristol, Tennessee, to the northwest and Boone, North Carolina, to the southeast. State route 67 winds along side Watauga Lake and connects the town to Elizabethton, Tennessee. Mountain City has a Post Office with an assigned zip code of 37683. The town is part of the voting district #7 area of the county. The first Euro-American explorers arrived in what is now the Mountain City area in the late 17th century using existing Native American trails. The first permanent Euro-American settlers arrived in the 18th century and among them were Leonard Shoun and Alexander Doran. The town was founded in 1836 and was originally called Taylorsville, in honor of Colonel James Taylor. The name was changed to Mountain City in 1885, to reflect it being in one of the highest valleys in Tennessee. Mountain City and Johnson County have a long musical heritage. In 1925, the town was the site of the first Mountain City Fiddlers Convention, which is considered a landmark event in the modern history of Appalachian traditional music. The musical gathering greatly contributed to the development of the genre of country music. Shady Valley, TN Shady Valley is an unincorporated community in Johnson County, Tennessee, and is located just outside of the Cherokee National Forest. Shady Valley is also the name of the valley in which the town is located. It is the second highest community in Tennessee at an elevation of 2785 feet, and it is situated between Holston Mountain to the northwest and Iron Mountain to the southeast. The town is located at the intersection of Hwy 421 and Hwy 91 in the middle of the valley. Shady Valley is served by a Post Office assigned zip code 37688. The community is part of the voting district #6 area of the county. Shady Valley is home to some historic cranberry bogs. These are cold adopted ecosystems, far south of their usual range. The valley once contained an estimated 10,000 acres of boreal cranberry bogs. The annual Cranberry Festival held the second weekend in October every year, celebrates the remaining cranberry bog. The annual festival includes food, music, a parade and auctions. Shady Valley is also known for the famous Snake Motorcycle Ride. The local general store serves as the home base for this motorcycle route, and here you can get Snake Motorcycle memorabilia, food, gas and information. The community has two other small businesses, a US Post Office and the Shady Valley Elementary School. Trade, TN Trade is an unincorporated community in Johnson County, Tennessee, and is the eastern most community in the state. Trade is also considered the oldest community in the state, and it is the highest community in the state at 3133 feet elevation. It is located along Hwy 421 between Mountain City, Tennessee and Boone, North Carolina. Trade is served by a Post Office assigned zip code 37691. The community is part of the voting district #3 area of the county. In the 18th century, Trade was established as a trading outpost known as “The Trade Gap”. It was a trading post for Native Americans, pioneers and fur traders. Tom Dula (made famous by the folk song “Tom Dooley”) hid out in Trade as he was on the run, suspected of murder in North Carolina. He was eventually arrested by a posse in Trade. In 2008, the Trade Gristmill celebrated its grand opening at the Trade Community Center grounds. Most of the parts comprising the newly constructed mill date back to pre-civil war. This is a good attraction to share with family and friends. The culture and history of Trade is celebrated at the Trade Days Festival, a long running celebration of Appalachian arts, crafts, culture and history. It includes Appalachian music, dance and a Native American Pow-Wow. It is held at the Trade Community Center.

A directory of administrative offices for Johnson County Tennessee. Johnson County Administrative Offices Russell Robinson, Director ACCOUNTS & BUDGETS 423-727-7977 The Director of Accounts and Budgets, is responsible for making sure the county books are kept in compliance with all state and local rules and regulations and in accordance with GAAP (Generally Accepted Accounting Principles). The Director of Accounts & Budgets and his staff work closely with the County Mayor in developing financial information for the various county departments, the Budget Committee, and the County Commission regarding all areas of finance. This office plays a key role in making sure the County is and stays in a stable financial position. Melissa Hollaway CIRCUT COURT CLERK 423-727-9012 Website - Pay Civil & Criminal Fines Some of the clerks’ duties include the following: Attending each court session with all the papers for the cases on the docket; Administering oaths to parties and witnesses who testify; Keeping minutes of the court in a well-bound book or in an electronic format so long as certain rules relating to the safekeeping of the records are followed; Maintaining the rule docket and an execution docket in which all court judgments or decrees are entered in order of rendition and all receipts and disbursements in a case are entered; & Maintaining indexes for all books and dockets that are kept by the office. Tammie Fenner JOHNSON COUNTY CLERK 423-727-9633 Website The county clerk has numerous duties, including acting as clerk of the county legislative body, issuing motor vehicle titles and registrations, collecting privilege taxes, and overseeing the issuance of beer permits & marriage licenses. Sherrie Fenner CLERK & MASTER 423-727-7853 423-727-7012 (fax) sfennerclerkandmaster@outlook.com Website Read Bio Here Cheri Lipford, Certified Administrator of Elections ELECTION COMMISSION 423-727-8592 Website The Johnson County Election Commission has the statutory responsibilities of registering voters and conducting elections. Honorable Jeffery C. Lowe GENERAL SESSIONS/JUVENILE JUDGE 423-727-9486 The criminal wing of the Sessions Court handles all criminal cases charged in the county. It can render disposition on misdemeanors and probable cause hearings on felonies. The civil wing of the Sessions Court handles all damages cases up to $25,000, all detainer summonses, and orders of protection. The Juvenile wing has exclusive jurisdiction of dependent neglect children, truant children, and unruly children. It also legitimates children and collects child support on behalf of the children under its jurisdiction. Jeff Wagner HIGHWAY DEPARTMENT 196 Pleasant Valley Road | Mountain City, TN 37683 423-727-7851 Sandy Hammons, Litter Control Officer LITTER CONTROL Recycling Center Address: Election Avenue | Mountain City, TN 37683 423-501-1005 Matthew Lewis, Assessor PROPERTY ASSESSOR 423-727-7692 The assessor’s duties include two basic functions: appraisal and assessment of taxable real and personal property in the county that is not appraised by the state. NOTICE FOR NEW CONSTRUCTION : You must apply for FEMA Flood Permits in the Property Assessors Office. Questions: 423-727-7692 Freida May, Register of Deeds REGISTER OF DEEDS 423-727-7841 Website The primary function of the register is to make and preserve a record of instruments required or allowed by law to be filed or recorded, including but not limited to deeds, powers of attorney, deeds of trust, mortgages, liens, contracts, plats, leases, judgments, wills, court orders, military discharges, records under the Uniform Commercial Code (primarily fixture filings),and other types of documents. T.C.A. § 66-24-101. The records provide public notice of property ownership, liens, contracts, and other transactions that affect the public interest. The register’s office is in the county seat, and the records and papers must remain in the office at all times. T.C.A. §§ 8-13-106, 8-13-107. Leah Charland, Community Coordinator SAFE BABY COURT 423-460-4491 Safe Baby Court is a specialized court program that was established for infants and toddlers (birth through 3 years of age). The program strives to find new ways for families to connect with community service providers and provide a strong foundation for infant mental health. The goal is to reduce maltreatment and traumatic experience during significant brain development of infants and toddlers, while increasing family accountability in conjunction with community program interaction to achieve permanency. Children served are either at risk of entering foster care or currently in care. Mayor Larry Potter SOLID WASTE 423-727-6921 378 Industrial Park Road | Mountain City, TN 37683 TRANSFER STATION HOURS Monday- Friday 8:00am-4:00p m | Saturdays 8:00am-12:00pm Closed on recognized holidays Lisa J. Crowder TRUSTEE 423-727-9062 Johnson County Courthouse | 222 W Main Street | Mountain City, TN Website The county trustee has three major functions among other duties: (1) collecting the county’s property taxes; (2) accounting for and disbursing county funds (including proper apportionment and determination of fund availability); and (3) investing temporarily idle county funds. Bill Caldwell & Frank Dominguez VETERAN'S AFFAIRS & SAFETY 208 College Street | Mountain City, TN 37694 423-727-7929 Frank Dominguez - email Bill Caldwell, VSO - email The Johnson County Veterans Service Office is available to assist and answer any questions you may have with your veteran benefit claims. They also provide assistance with insurance issues and supplemental policy information, as well as information for low-income veterans, their families and neighbors. Cameron Stanberry YOUTH SERVICES OFFICER 423-727-9486 The Youth Services Officer of the County meets with unruly and delinquent juveniles and their families to counsel the youth, make appropriate referrals to public as well as private agencies, and to provide information for us by the court. Ryan Carroll JOHNSON COUNTY ATTORNEY 423-727-9671

Contact information for the Johnson County Tennessee Sheriff Johnson County Sheriff Clifton Worley, Jr. 216 Honeysuckle St. Mountain City, TN 37683 Phone: 423-727-7761 Fax: 423-727-5794 Email: sheriffcw@johnsoncountysd.org Visit Website

View the most recent census and demographic data for Johnson County TN. Johnson County Census & Demographics Population estimates, July 1, 2021, (V2021) . . . . . . 18,170 PEOPLE Population Population estimates, July 1, 2021, (V2021) . . . . . 18,170 Population estimates base, April 1, 2020, (V2021) . . . . . 17,948 Population, percent change – April 1, 2020 (estimates base) to July 1, 2021, (V2021) . . . . . 1.2% Population, Census, April 1, 2010 . . . . . . 18,244 Age & Sex Persons under 5 years, percent . . . . . . . 4.3% Persons under 18 years, percent . . . . . . 16.9% Persons 65 years and over, percent . . . . . . 23.3% Female persons, percent . . . . . . 46.3% Race and Hispanic Origin White alone, percent . . . . . . 95.9% Black or African American alone, percent . . . . . . 2.2% American Indian and Alaska Native alone, percent . . . . . . 0.4% Asian alone, percent . . . . . . 0.3% Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander alone, percent . . . . . . Z Two or More Races, percent . . . . . . 1.2% Hispanic or Latino, percent . . . . . . 2.1% White alone, not Hispanic or Latino, percent . . . . . . 93.9% Population Characteristics Veterans, 2016-2020 . . . . . . 1,503 Foreign born persons, percent, 2016-2020 . . . . . 1.5% HOUSING Housing units, July 1, 2019, (V2019) . . . . . . 9,019 Owner-occupied housing unit rate, 2016-2020 . . . . . . 75.5% Median value of owner-occupied housing units, 2016-2020 . . . . . . $133,700 Median selected monthly owner costs -with a mortgage, 2016-2020 . . . . . . $891 Median selected monthly owner costs -without a mortgage, 2016-2020 . . . . . . $294 Median gross rent, 2016-2020 . . . . . . $552 Building permits, 2020 . . . . . . 1 Families & Living Arrangements Households, 2016-2020 . . . . . . 6,979 Persons per household, 2016-2020 . . . . . . 2.26 Living in same house 1 year ago, percent of persons age 1 year+, 2016-2020 . . . . . . 89.8% Language other than English spoken at home, percent of persons age 5 years+,2016-2020 . . . . . . . 3.0% Education High school graduate or higher, percent of persons age 25 years+, 2016-2020 . . . . . . 80.6% Bachelor’s degree or higher, percent of persons age 25 years+, 2016-2020 . . . . . . 11.9% Health With a disability, under age 65 years, percent, 2016-2020 . . . . . . 16.0% Persons without health insurance, under age 65 years, percent . . . . . . 12.4% Economic In civilian labor force, total, percent of population age 16 years+, 2016-2020 . . . . . . 39.2% In civilian labor force, female, percent of population age 16 years+, 2016-2020 . . . . . . 39.1% Total accommodation and food services sales, 2012 ($1,000) . . . . . . 9,262 Total health care and social assistance receipts/revenue, 2012 ($1,000) . . . . . . 42,839 Total manufacturers shipments, 2012 ($1,000) . . . . . . 165,435 Total retail sales, 2012 ($1,000) . . . . . . 108,792 Total retail sales per capita, 2012 . . . . . . $6,012 Transportation With a disability, under age 65 years, percent, 2016-2020 . . . . . . 16.0% Persons without health insurance, under age 65 years, percent . . . . . . 12.4% Income & Poverty Median household income (in 2020 dollars), 2016-2020 . . . . . . . $38,090 Per capita income in past 12 months (in 2020 dollars), 2016-2020 . . . . . . $22,955 Persons in poverty, percent . . . . . . 18.6% Businesses Total employer establishments, 2020 . . . . . . 233 Total employment, 2020 . . . . . . 3,501 Total annual payroll, 2020 ($1,000) . . . . . . 143,571 Total employment, percent change, 2019-2020 . . . . . . 4.6% Total non-employer establishments, 2018 . . . . . . 1,050 All firms, 2012 . . . . . . 1,330 Men-owned firms, 2012 . . . . . . 796 Women-owned firms, 2012 . . . . . . 364 Minority-owned firms, 2012 . . . . . . F Nonminority-owned firms, 2012 . . . . . . 1,286 Veteran-owned firms, 2012 . . . . . . 114 Nonveteran-owned firms, 2012 . . . . . . 1,115 Geography Population per square mile, 2010 . . . . . . 61.1 Land area in square miles, 2010 . . . . . . . 298.48 FIPS Code . . . . . . 47091 Value Notes Estimates are not comparable to other geographic levels due to methodology differences that may exist between different data sources. Some estimates presented here come from sample data, and thus have sampling errors that may render some apparent differences between geographies statistically indistinguishable. Click the Quick Info  icon to the left of each row in TABLE view to learn about sampling error. The vintage year (e.g., V2021) refers to the final year of the series (2020 thru 2021). Different vintage years of estimates are not comparable. Users should exercise caution when comparing 2016-2020 ACS 5-year estimates to other ACS estimates. For more information, please visit the 2020 5-year ACS Comparison Guidance page. Fact Notes (a) Includes persons reporting only one race (c) Economic Census – Puerto Rico data are not comparable to U.S. Economic Census data (b) Hispanics may be of any race, so also are included in applicable race categories Value Flags -Either no or too few sample observations were available to compute an estimate, or a ratio of medians cannot be calculated because one or both of the median estimates falls in the lowest or upper interval of an open ended distribution. F – Fewer than 25 firms D – Suppressed to avoid disclosure of confidential information N – Data for this geographic area cannot be displayed because the number of sample cases is too small. FN – Footnote on this item in place of data X – Not applicable S – Suppressed; does not meet publication standards NA – Not available Z – Value greater than zero but less than half unit of measure shown QuickFacts data are derived from: Population Estimates, American Community Survey, Census of Population and Housing, Current Population Survey, Small Area Health Insurance Estimates, Small Area Income and Poverty Estimates, State and County Housing Unit Estimates, County Business Patterns, Non-employer Statistics, Economic Census, Survey of Business Owners, Building Permits.

Explore the beauty of the Appalachian Mountains Tennessee; discover attractions, outdoor adventures, and family-friendly activities. Johnson County Attractions Nestled in the scenic Appalachian Highlands, Johnson County, Tennessee offers a blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and rich cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the crystal-clear waters of Watauga Lake, hike or ride the trails at Doe Mountain Recreation Area, or take a drive along The Snake, a famed route for motorcyclists. Charming Mountain City boasts unique shops, local dining, and the Musical Heritage Mural Mile, celebrating the area’s deep roots in old-time and bluegrass music. History lovers can visit the Museum of Butler to learn about the “Town That Wouldn’t Drown,” while nearby vineyards, farm markets, and seasonal festivals make Johnson County a year-round destination Tennessee's Best Kept Secret Johnson County is home to many types of attractions including historical sites, museums, theater, parks and music. There are also several nature based attractions such as Watauga Lake, Doe Mountain Recreation Area, and the Snake Motorcycle and Sports Car Route. Continue to scroll down for more videos and links to more to do! In April of 2023, Governor Bill Lee and the Tennessee Legislative Body designated the iconic rock anthem, Copperhead Road by Steve Earle, as the 12th State song. In honor of this recognition, Johnson County Tourism partnered with The Waterfront Group to create a very unique landmark to capture the musical history and moonshine legends of this area of Tennessee. The landmark is free to visit and we encourage photos! The unveiling of the Copperhead Road Landmark in 2024 also kicked off the Copperhead Road Music Fest held over Memorial Day! Our Log Cabin Welcome Center warmly welcomes visitors to Johnson County. It is conveniently located on Hwy 421, in the middle of Mountain City, which is our county seat. Here you will find a small history museum with exhibits that present our history and showcases original artifacts and pictures from the past. Johnson County Welcome Center Open Monday-Friday only. 716 S Shady St, Mountain City, TN 37683 (423) 727-5800 Antiquing In Johnson County, you will find small and large antique shops for those searching for new treasures during their visit here. Appalachian Trail The famous 2,100 mile hiking trail meanders through our area offering some of the best hiking in the world. In our area this trail will take you along mountain ridges overlooking Shady Valley around pristine Watauga Lake and actually across the Watauga Dam and by incredible Laurel Falls. Backbone Rock Our county is home to Backbone Rock which is a natural wonder located in the Cherokee National Forest. It is known as the shortest railroad tunnel in the world. This unique rock formation hovers over Hwy 91 and provides a lasting memory. There is also a picnic area and hiking trails for your enjoyment. BACKBONE ROCK CAMPGROUND AND PAVILIONS IS CURRENTLY CLOSED DUE TO EFFECTS FROM HELENE. Doe Mountain State and local governments purchased Doe Mountain to keep it from being commercially developed and to provide an outdoor recreation area for this part of Northeast Tennessee. This 8,600 acre family wilderness area provides over 50 miles of blazed adventure trails for ATV riders, hikers, mountain bikers and horseback riders. Eco-Agriculture The history of Johnson County is rooted in rural American farming, the timber industry and mining industry. The county has transformed into a tourism destination with some eco-agriculture attractions such as Harbin Hills Farm, an organic farming operation with the Mountain Music Stage venue featuring music performances by some talented local musicians. Our county is also part of an American Viticulture Area which is a designation for areas that have the right geographic features to produce high quality wine grapes. We have a thriving vineyard and two local wineries serving award winning wines. The Watauga Lake Winery is located in a restored historic school building where you can participate in tours of the winery facilities and enjoy wine tastings. The vineyard offers a touch of Tuscany where you can dine while enjoying incredible views and attend some of the many scheduled events during the year. Heritage Hall This theater is a quality venue showcasing some great theatrical productions and musical performances. The theater venue is actually located in a restored turn of the century building and features an active calendar of events. Johnson County Farmer's Market The main work of the Johnson County Farmers Market is to help strengthen a sustainable local agricultural and food economy. Follow us on Facebook for current schedules and locations: @johnsoncountyfarmersmarket Johnson County Museum of History The Johnson County Welcome Center houses a small History Museum that presents the history of our area, our rural Appalachian culture and our long musical heritage. There are some nice exhibits to view as you learn about our history There is no cost to tour this museum. Johnson County Veterans Memorial Wall Located in Ralph Stout Park in Mountain City Tennessee, the Johnson County Veterans Memorial Wall commemorates our local hometown heroes that have served our great nation proudly. As they have stood for us, so shall we stand for them. Our Veterans Memorial Wall honors our brave service men and women and their sacrifice to protect our freedom and their courage to uphold their oaths to protect and defend the Constitution of the United States of America. Museum of Butler TN This first rate museum will amaze you with its quality exhibits and original photographs that bring to life the relocation of the town of Butler to make way for the creation of Watauga Lake. This museum is open on weekends between Memorial Day and late October. Guided tours are available by appointment. The Johnson County Center for the Arts The Art Center is located in Heritage Square in downtown Mountain City, Tennessee. This non-profit art center showcases Appalachian crafts, art and products produced by local artisans. They also offer a very active art class schedule, so be sure to check out the schedule to find a class in which you would like to participate. The Snake The famous Snake 421 Motorcycle and Sports Car Route runs through our county providing some of the best motorcycle touring in the southeastern United States. The Shady Valley Country Store is the hub for this ride and is located at the intersection of US Hwy 421 and TN Hwy 91 in Shady Valley, Tennessee. You are invited to come and ride the 489 curves over two mountains and through one valley. Trade Grist Mill The mill is located on the east side of US 421 in the village of Trade, on the TN/NC border. While the mill is located at the back of the road, it can easily be seen from the highway. Originally known as the Jones, May, Snyder Mill, it is now called the Trade Grist Mill. The mill was built around 1802 by Thomas Jones who migrated from North Carolina and homesteaded land on Roan Creek in an area known as Key Station, near Trade. Watauga Lake Johnson County is on the north side of Watauga Lake in the southern Appalachian Mountains. This is one of the cleanest lakes in America making it a choice family lake destination. There are public beach areas, picnic areas, campgrounds and boat ramps. Here you can enjoy a variety of water sports such as skiing, sailing, pontoon boats, canoeing and kayaking in a cool clean mountain lake. Watauga Lake Winery Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, our Watauga Lake Winery revives a 40s-era school house rich in lore against a stunning mountain backdrop. Our Annual Festivals SHADY VALLEY FESITVAL OF QUILTS APRIL MOUNTAIN CITY SUNFLOWER FESTIVAL JULY LONG JOURNEY HOME LABOR DAY WEEKEND SEPTEMBER COPPERHEAD ROAD MUSIC FEST TBA OLD BUTLER DAYS SELMA CURTIS PARK AUGUST TRADE MILL DAYS CURRENTLY SUSPENDED TBA MOUNTAIN CITY FIDDLERS CONVENTION OCTOBER CRANBERRY FESTIVAL SHADY ROCK SCHOOL OCTOBER CHRISTMAS ON MAIN FIRST SATURDAY DECEMBER

Johnson County is a small rural community located in northeast Tennessee in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains. About Johnson County, Tennessee Hello Johnson County is a small rural community located in northeast Tennessee in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains. Our history is rooted in rural America farming followed by mills, timber and manganese mining. Our way of life is based in our southern Appalachia culture. We have a long musical heritage in Traditional Appalachian Music, and to this day, we have an annual Old time Fiddlers Convention celebrating our musical history. Rich in natural resources, we strive to protect and preserve, along with our culture and musical heritage. Our location and many protected natural resources make us an adventure paradise, attracting tourism and early retirees. Our county borders areas of two other states with thriving tourism markets, with the NC High Country to the southeast and Damascus, Virginia to the northwest. We are experiencing economic growth in our business sectors, tourism industry and real estate market. This growth is providing some good business opportunities in our area of northeast Tennessee. We are focused on community development to help drive our economic development. Our county services are continually expanding to meet the needs of our residents and those visitors who come to experience our culture and way of life. You are welcome in Johnson County, today, tomorrow or for a lifetime. Visit the Fiddlin' Fred Price statue at the Johnson County Center for the Arts Center located 127 College Street in beautiful Mountain City!

Location and contact information for the Johnson County TN Library. Johnson County Library 219 N Church Street Mountain City, TN 37683 Phone: 423-727-6544 Visit Website