Campaign HQ: 117 South Gay Street, 37902
Campaign Phone Number: 865-382-6904
Knoxville is a great city with a bright future. With innovation and new ideas, Mark Padgett will strengthen our city and make it an even better place to work and live.
Campaign Dashboard
08 Nov
2011WATE: Putting the Knoxville mayoral ads to the truth testHow about Mark Padgett's latest TV ad? It says like "Phil Bredesen and Bill Haslam, Knoxville's next mayor should a proven record of creating private sector jobs and strengthening the local, that man is Mark Padgett." Padgett's company, eGovernment solutions, has created jobs, so that is true. But he says the company only has 10 employees. "They're not all full-time employees. Ten people to help e-gov, five are full-time employees. five are contractors. I pay technical advisors and contractors," said Padgett. more » 08 Nov
2011WBIR: Wright's Cafeteria becomes campaign stop"It's always packed," Padgett said. "The people who come here seem like they're always in the know about what's going on in politics. You come here and you shake hands and people tell you what they think is happening. It's kind of a ritual and it's a lot of fun," Padgett added. more » 07 Nov
2011UPDATED: Padgett Announces "Rock the Vote 'Round the Clock""We saw during the primary that every vote counts," said Mark Padgett. "Visiting patrons and workers throughout the city during the last 24 hours of the campaign allows me one final opportunity to share my plan to grow Knoxville's economy so we can invest in our neighborhoods and improve city services. I'm dedicated to moving Knoxville forward, and I have the passion and energy to lead. In addition, my team of volunteers and interns are making calls, knocking on doors and offering folks rides to the polls. Since the primary, we've made over 6,000 voter contacts for a total of 30,000. I urge everyone to make their voice heard and vote on November 8." more » 04 Nov
2011Madeline Rogero's New TV Commercial Hides Record of Tax Increases, Pay Raise and Slush Fund"From day one, our campaign has focused on issues, ideas and her public record," said Tony Coppola, campaign manager for Mark Padgett for Knoxville City Mayor. "The truth is simple and clear: Madeline Rogero voted for five tax increases, including one that gave her a 24 percent pay raise, and she voted to use taxpayer dollars to fill up a slush fund for Knox County politicians. The voters deserve to know the difference between the two candidates." more » 02 Nov
2011Mark Padgett Opposes Stormwater Utility Fee"After receiving many phone calls and e-mails from concerned Knoxvillians, I wanted to voice my opposition to the city's Stormwater Utility proposal," said Mark Padgett. "From Charlotte to Chattanooga, similar approaches have proved to be little more than a monthly 'rain tax; that appears on your utility bill. During these tough economic times, I'm concerned this approach will push businesses out of the city while unnecessarily burdening families, churches and non-profit organizations. Someone can always come up with a good reason to create fees and raise taxes. Instead, my administration will focus on growing the local economy, cutting wasteful spending in city government and finding innovative financing methods to invest in neighborhoods and improve city services. I urge my opponent to clarify her position on this issue." more » 01 Nov
2011Have You Voted to Move Knoxville Forward?Our campaign has gained momentum throughout the entire city because of supporters like you. And now is the time to double down on our efforts and encourage our friends, family and colleagues to help make Mark Padgett Knoxville's next city Mayor. more » 28 Oct
2011Knoxville News Sentinel: Rogero, Padgett debate covers range of issues"I would like to see them come down," Padgett said of the city's red light cameras, which are posted at more than a dozen locations. He said he doubts they have been as effective as claimed in making intersections safer. "They are nothing but revenue generators, and another layer of bureaucracy," Padgett said. more » 23 Oct
2011Knoxville News Sentinel: Mark Padgett cites his business experience in mayoral campaignMark Padgett is a mayoral candidate bursting with energy — and brimming with confidence that his business experience as an Internet and software entrepreneur makes him the right person for the job. "This race is all about who has the right kind of experience," Padgett said. "Government must be run like a business, with efficiency. The more money you save over here, the more money you have to spend to help people over there." more » 20 Oct
2011Knoxville News Sentinel: Mayoral candidates quizzed on East Knoxville issues"Growing jobs in our economy is the one thing we can't afford to get wrong," Padgett said to the standing-room-only crowd of nearly 100 people. He said the government needs to support existing businesses, recruit new businesses and establish Knoxville as a good place to start a business. He said the city should work to recruit businesses in industries such as clean energy, technology and automotive components. more » 18 Oct
2011Press Release: Mark Padgett Launches Third TV Commercial: "Jobs""Early voting starts tomorrow through November 3, and election day is November 8," said Padgett. "I hope everyone makes their voice heard and votes to move Knoxville forward. I want folks to know that my top priority is economic growth because it's the only way we can afford to invest in our neighborhoods and the programs and services we all care about." more » 05 Oct
2011Knoxville Daily Sun: Some of Knoxville's Biggest Names Endorse Mark Padgett..."I'm proud to endorse Mark's candidacy to be Knoxville's next city mayor," said Ivan Harmon. Harmon then went on to speak about Padgett's pro-business and pro-neighborhood stance. Harmon added, "He has the heart and passion to serve our community, and he's a fiscal conservative who understands how to create jobs and grow our economy." ...Other than the simple endorsements, all four stated that they'd join Padgett on the campaign trail to urge their friends, supporters and families to join the now extremely powerful Padgett candidacy. more » 29 Sep
2011Are You Registered to Vote on November 8?November 8 is just around the corner. Our campaign has gained momentum throughout the entire city because of supporters like you. And now is the time to double down on our efforts and encourage our friends, family, and colleagues to vote. Make your voice heard - vote Mark Padgett for Knoxville City Mayor to Move Knoxville Forward! more » 28 Sep
2011Press Release: Mark Padgett Releases "Padgett Plan" to Move Knoxville Forward"From our police force to infrastructure to parks and greenways, the only way we can afford to pay for programs and services we all care about is by growing jobs and our economy and cutting waste and red tape in city government," Padgett said. "I've shared this vision for Knoxville with hundreds of community groups, neighborhood associations, and businesses and at over 45 debates. The 'Padgett Plan' is the culmination and next phase of my conversation with Knoxville. I believe that voters deserve to hear specific ideas on how to create jobs, strengthen our neighborhoods and improve city services." more » 20 Sep
2011Press Release: Padgett Campaign Continues to Gain Momentum"Every dollar of support is an investment in my plan to create jobs and strengthen our neighborhoods," said Padgett. "I've shared my plan to move Knoxville forward with hundreds of businesses, community organizations, and neighborhood associations. Thanks to our dedicated interns and volunteers, my campaign has also made 20,000 voter contacts through phone calls and knocking on doors. We're going to continue to work tirelessly through Election Day. I urge everyone to encourage their friends, families, and colleagues to make their voice heard and vote." more » 14 Sep
2011iTunes: Mark Padgett for Knoxville City Mayor - Campaign SoundtrackMark's campaign has four staffers, over 20 interns, and dozens of volunteers working around the clock to help move Knoxville forward. Fueled on coffee from Remedy and Harry's Deli, we also keep the energy level high by rocking out to a playlist including U2, Tom Petty and Elvis Presley. more » 10 Sep
2011Tennessee Journalist: Employment, development hot topics at Voice of Voter forumMark Padgett said his plan for job growth is not a plan at all. Instead, it is a set of action-based initiatives to bring permanent jobs to Knoxville. "[Knoxville is] really good at planning, but most plans are waiting on private sector investment. That's what Knoxville needs to grow," Padgett said. Job growth is the most important aspect of Padgett's campaign, followed by building strong neighborhoods, ensuring that all city departments are operating smoothly and creating a thriving downtown. more » 08 Sep
2011Help Get Out the Vote!Early voting has finally begun (September 7-22) for the September 27th primary, and I've been overwhelmed by the support from all walks and life and corners of the city. In the last 48 hours alone, I've received calls, e-mails, and Facebook messages from people asking how they can join our team for the final push to victory. There is no time commitment to volunteer, but in general we've been signing folks up for the following shifts (everyday): 7:00-9:00am, 11:00am-1:00pm, and 4:00-7:00pm. more » 07 Sep
2011Metro Pulse: Q&A with Mark PadgettWorking with the various organizations and the business community, the mayor needs to lead and drive economic development. Our current regional approach is serving Knoxville well, but much like fiscal responsibility, economic development is not a one-time exercise. As mayor, I'm going to proactively push for smart development that grows our economy and strengthens our neighborhoods. more » 04 Sep
2011Knoxville News Sentinel: Mayoral Diversity Questionnaire: Mark PadgettAs mayor, one of the best ways to encourage unity is simply leading by example. I'm going to proactively promote diversity, participation, access, and tolerance because I believe those principles encourage civic engagement and participation, which will lead to a more unified Knoxville. My administration will also support diversity at all levels of city government, continue the progress downtown (because I believe it's everyone's neighborhood), and support cultural events and festivals. more » 29 Aug
2011Mark Launches Ad Campaign Stressing Job Creation"Since our campaign started last December, I've knocked on thousands of doors, met with hundreds of community groups and participated in over 35 debates," said Padgett. "My campaign has consistently gained momentum because my plan to create jobs and economic growth is resonating with Knoxvillians from all walks of life. As early voting begins next week, I want folks to know that my top priority is to grow our economy because it's the only way we can afford to invest in the programs and services we all care about." more » 27 Aug
2011Knoxville News Sentinel: Q&A with Mark PadgettThe city has excellent codes and a number of dedicated employees. However, Knoxville has too many blighted, vacant and abandoned properties. I would consider adding more inspectors, but I want to first reduce the response time to complaints, provide better support to code enforcers, and incorporate technology that streamlines services. more » 25 Aug
2011Early Voting Locations AnnouncedReminder that early voting for the Knoxville city mayoral campaign starts in just a few short weeks (September 7)! Below is a calendar and helpful links to get you and your family/friends ready for the September 27 primary. more » 18 Aug
2011Knoxville Yankee: The Real DealBut then you watch him in quiet moments when his guard is down, when he makes his way through the Old City, talking with the girl who made his coffee. As he taste-tests chocolate and jokes with her you realize that "politician Padgett" is the same as "everyday Padgett." He knows the guy on the corner, unloading a sink from a plumbing truck, knows him well, by the conversation. He stops to greet the homeless man walking down the street the other way and you realize they are on a first-name basis. These are unrehearsed moments and you realize that the passion Padgett feels for Knoxville and its people is genuine. The real deal. more » 17 Aug
2011Press Release: Mark Responds to Compassion Knoxville RecommendationsI applaud Compassion Knoxville's exhaustive process and community-driven approach. One of the best ways to help the homeless reintegrate back into society is to focus on unemployment, drug and alcohol addiction, and mental illness. So I particularly support the recommendation that folks cannot receive services until they sign up for case management. more » 09 Aug
2011Knoxville Daily Sun: Padgett Raises Another $45k in JulyI personally believe that Padgett's successful campaign is the result of new hope. Naturally, there are subtle differences on all the candidates; however, Padgett has one element that the others seem to be lacking: While it's true that Knoxville has come a long way it's also true that we should get on with the future. We live in a time when the people are tired of listening to "politics as usual." What worked yesterday will not necessarily work tomorrow. A new, fresh, untainted mind and leadership may be the exact ace that this city needs. more » 08 Aug
2011Make Your Voice Heard - Register to Vote!Early voting for the Knoxville city mayoral campaign starts in just 30 short days (September 7)! Voters have three weeks left to register, and absentee ballots are already being requested. more » 08 Aug
2011Press Release: Padgett Campaign Gaining Momentum - $45,015 Raised In July“I continue to be humbled and grateful by the support I have received from the community,” said Padgett. “The financial support is needed, but more important is the growing number of Knoxville voters joining our campaign to keep Knoxville moving forward. As I knock on doors and meet with families and businesses across the city, one thing is clear: Knoxvillians want a mayor focused on growing our economy so we can invest in our neighborhoods and improve city services. With just thirty days until voters head to the polls, I urge everyone to encourage their friends, families, and colleagues to register to vote.” more » 11 Jul
2011Knoxville News Sentinel: A peek at campaign hubsLate Friday morning, he was there with seven interns and three staffers in a mostly quiet atmosphere. A mixture of work was under way, from making telephone calls to keeping records up to date. Stacks of yard signs were neatly arranged for volunteers to pick up on Saturday to distribute. And on Saturday, things were abuzz with volunteers out to get their assignments. more » 09 Jul
2011Knoxville News Sentinel: Securing business supportIt's clear from the latest financial disclosures of the Knoxville mayoral candidates that the business community that supports political candidates, most of whom are Republicans, is endorsing Mark Padgett, a Democrat and son of former longtime Knox County Clerk Mike Padgett. more » 08 Jul
2011WBIR: Knoxville mayoral candidates discuss financial reportsMark Padgett's campaign took in $146,865. He said he thinks it's because people really agree with his vision for a growing Knoxville. "Growing jobs and the economy is the number one thing we're looking at, but also making sure our neighborhoods are safe and strong and well connected," explained Padgett. more » 06 Jul
2011Press Release: Padgett Releases Quarterly Fundraising Totals"I'm honored by the support I have received from voters who want a mayor with business experience, energy, and a fresh perspective in city government," said Mark Padgett. "Our vision for a vibrant and growing Knoxville is clearly resonating with families and businesses from all corners of the city. Together, we are building a campaign focused on growing Knoxville's economy to strengthen our neighborhoods and improve city services." more » 05 Jul
2011Metro Pulse: Mark Padgett Adds Some Haslams To His Donor ListIn all, Padgett is reporting a preliminary amount of $140,000 raised in the last quarter, for a total to date of over $265,000, with cash on hand of more than $160,000. Other names of note on his list include Tim Williams, CEO of 21st Mortgage, and the PAC of Congressman Heath Shuler. more » 15 Jun
2011Video: Discussion with Entrepreneurs of Knoxville (EoK)Great discussion this morning with Entrepreneurs of Knoxville on jobs, the local economy, and how we can encourage/support entrepreneurs. It's why Mark is running and what sets him apart from his opponents. This is a great local group - please check them out (http://www.eokhq.com/). more » 14 Jun
2011Press Release: Padgett Submits Candidate Nominating Petition"As Mayor, I will focus on creating jobs and growing our economy, which will lead to stronger neighborhoods and improved city services," said Mr. Padgett. "The only way we're going to make Knoxville an even better place to live is by working together, and I'm honored by the diverse and broad support my campaign has received. Over the coming months, I look forward to a spirited debate about different visions of Knoxville's future - and more importantly - our specific plans to move Knoxville forward." more » 01 Jun
2011Press Release: Padgett Applauds City's Diverse Pension Reform Task Force"With substantial tax dollars at stake, Knoxvillians should have the right to attend and observe all task force meetings. This is a complex problem that's going to require complex solutions. Public meetings will help inspire confidence in the group's recommendations and help to ensure that we're protecting taxpayers and honoring commitments to our dedicated city employees." more » 25 May
2011South Knox/Seymour Times: Mark Padgett Discusses Upcoming Election & S. Knoxville"I want to help Knoxville realize its full potential - we need to harness all of our resources and talent to become a world-class city with a booming economy and high quality of life. For South Knoxville, I hope to make a lot of redevelopment projects a reality. We have spent millions on planning, but the next Mayor of Knoxville has to take those plans into reality. That means securing investment from the private sector, and as Mayor, this will be one of my top priorities." more » 12 May
2011Knoxify: Better Know A Candidate: Mark PadgettThis fall, the city of Knoxville will elect a new Mayor and City Council members (see helpful explanation here). This series is intended to inform our readers on the various candidates and hopefully help illustrate the real people behind the campaigns. more » 06 May
2011Knoxville Daily Sun: Mark Padgett -- A Born LeaderExcerpt: I can tell you that Mark Padgett's parents raised a leader. At 33 years old Padgett's no-nonsense business mind comes shining through in his entire presence. He's well-beyond his years and if he's elected Knoxville Mayor you can be assured that you and your city are in good hands. more » 21 Apr
2011Press Release: Dedicated to Putting Knoxville First"I'm 100 percent dedicated to strengthening Knoxville's economy and quality of life. The next Mayor of Knoxville is going to need the skills and ability to support existing local businesses, create jobs, recruit new companies, bolster emerging industries like solar, strengthen our neighborhoods, and continue the progress of downtown. As the only small business owner on the ballot, I'm uniquely qualified to move Knoxville forward into a world-class city with a great quality of life and booming economy." more » 09 Mar
2011Knoxville Journal: City Council postpones Pension Task Force vote"Open meetings should not be a political issue," Padgett said. "Knoxvillians deserve better than that. To me it's a cut and dry issue. Sometimes with the best intentions we miss the mark. I believe in this case what we have is some very dedicated public servants who are committed to offering solutions to the rising costs of pensions." more » 08 Mar
2011News Sentinel: Editorial: Shine sunlight on pension meetingsThe Knoxville City Council tonight will consider a resolution calling for the city's special Pension Task Force to conduct its meetings in public... City Council should approve the measure and Brown should honor the request. Bringing the task force's important work into the public realm would build trust in the recommendations it will give to resolving the city's growing pension funding problems. more » 06 Mar
2011Knoxville Daily Sun: Mark Padgett On Private Pension Task Force Meetings...Concerned with public trust and confidence Padgett continues by saying there's 9 million dollars of taxpayer money at stake and that number is going to rise to 30 million by 2019. Exactly how the City of Knoxville is going to deal with this rising cost is a major concern to every tax-paying Knoxville citizen. more » 25 Feb
2011News Sentinel: Editorial: Pension panel should meet in publicOfficials should reconsider the plans for the committee. Secret discussions don't increase candor so much as they multiply suspicions. Employees could think they've been sold out. Taxpayers can't have confidence their best interests are taken into account. No one wins. more » 03 Feb
2011Press Release: Padgett Announces Listening TourBusinessman Mark Padgett, candidate for Knoxville City Mayor, announced today that he will begin his Hands on Knoxville Listening Tour with the COIN Forum on Monday, February 7th 7:00pm at Church Street United Methodist Church. more » 31 Jan
2011Event: Official Campaign Kick-OffJoin us for our Official Campaign Kick-Off on Thursday, February 10th 5:30pm at the L & N Station in Worlds Fair Park. There will be food, entertainment and fellowship and the event is free to the public. more » 24 Jan
2011Thank You Everyone!I would like to thank everyone for their enthusiasm and support of my campaign. With your help, we raised over $10,000/week in the first reporting period. more » 17 Jan
2011Press Release: Padgett Honors Dr. Martin Luther KingBusinessman Mark Padgett, a candidate for Knoxville City Mayor, honored the legacy of Dr. King today by joining 30 local area children in the Memorial March down Martin Luther King, Jr. Ave. The young people carried replicas of signs from the 1963 March on Washington where Dr. King delivered his famous "I Have a Dream" speech. more » 14 Jan
2011Knoxville Journal Profiles Mark PadgettRecently the Knoxville Journal sent a set of six questions to the candidates running for City Mayor so that voters can compare the answers when making a decision about voting. Here are Mark Padgett's responses. more » 10 Jan
2011Press Release: Padgett Congratulates Interim Mayor BrownBusinessman Mark Padgett, a candidate for Knoxville City Mayor, congratulated Councilman Daniel Brown, who was elected Monday to serve as interim mayor. Brown replaces Mayor Bill Haslam, who resigned Monday and will be sworn in later this week as governor. more » 06 Dec
2010Halls Shopper News: Betty Bean profiles MarkUntil last week, Mark Padgett says nobody ever asked why he didn't run for City Council instead of jumping into the crowded field of experienced candidates who want to be the next mayor of Knoxville. more » More News