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Rutherford County Assessor Responds After Mayor Suggests Possible Resignation

Jun 05, 2025 at 02:46 pm by WGNS


MURFREESBORO, TN (WGNS) – Rutherford County Property Assessor Rob Mitchell has issued a firm response after Mayor Joe Carr suggested he “would not be surprised” if Mitchell chose to resign, following a state finding of noncompliance within the Assessor’s Office.

Carr’s comments came after the Tennessee Division of Property Assessments found that Mitchell’s office failed to meet minimum operational standards, prompting concern from county officials. In a statement reported by WGNS Radio, Carr criticized the performance of the office and expressed disappointment.

In response, Mitchell emphasized the independence of the Property Assessor’s role and defended the legal structure under which his office operates.

“I want to be clear about the structure and independence of the Assessor's Office,” Mitchell stated. “As an independently elected constitutional officer, the Assessor's Office does not take directives from the County Mayor. The Tennessee Constitution establishes the Assessor as an independent office, elected directly by the people of Rutherford County to serve their interests in property assessment matters.”

Mitchell pushed back against the public nature of Carr’s remarks, calling for professionalism and due process over what he described as “public spectacle or political theater.”

“This matter is not something that should be litigated in the court of public opinion. Complex legal and administrative issues require proper channels and due process.”

He added that he trusts the state and local judiciary to handle the situation appropriately and reaffirmed his commitment to continuing his service.

“I remain committed to serving the taxpayers of Rutherford County with integrity and will continue to fulfill the duties of the office to which I was elected.”

The exchange highlights ongoing friction between county officials over performance standards and accountability, though no formal action to remove Mitchell from office has been initiated.

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