MURFREESBORO, TN (WGNS) - Rutherford County Mayor‑Elect Randy Allen has been making the rounds across the community, speaking to civic groups, churches, and neighborhood gatherings. And one comment keeps surfacing: “He’s too nice to be our county mayor.” Allen laughs at the notion, but he also acknowledges what it reflects — a rough commentary on modern politics.

During a Wednesday night conversation at First Presbyterian Church in Murfreesboro, Allen told attendees that he is “God‑focused,” adding that ongoing prayer guides his decisions, his direction, and his commitment to doing what is best for Rutherford County.

Allen also shared a vision that resonated with many in the room: instead of trying to emulate the rapid‑growth culture north of us (Metro Nashville), he hopes Rutherford County will preserve the neighborly spirit found in communities like Eagleville, Kittrell, Lascassas, and the rural character stretching toward Cannon and Coffee Counties. He stressed that growth should never erase the county’s history, identity, or the kindness that once defined everyday life.

As part of his preparation for office, Allen has been attending statewide training sessions for new county mayors. One of the speakers was outgoing Sevier County Mayor Larry Waters, who is retiring after an extraordinary 48 years in office — the longest‑serving county mayor in Tennessee history. Waters attributed his success to steady teamwork with commissioners, deep emotional connection to the community, and treating the office as “public property,” a privilege rather than personal power.

Allen told the church group that on the morning of his first day in office, he plans to invite ministers from across Rutherford County to walk through the historic courthouse and pray over each space — asking for guidance, strength, impartiality, and blessings for both residents and businesses.

He also echoed Waters’ advice: open communication with municipal mayors and community leaders is essential.

WGNS News will continue reporting as Mayor‑Elect Randy Allen takes office, and the radio station will be creating new avenues for public communication with the mayor. And yes — he has already been invited to continue the long‑running open‑forum broadcasts that has connected county mayors with citizens for nearly 80 years.