RUTHERFORD COUNTY, TN — Rutherford County Trustee Teb Batey has been named the 2025 Outstanding County Official by the County Officials Association of Tennessee (COAT), earning the organization’s highest honor for exceptional leadership and service.

Batey was recognized for his contributions as a past president, board member, and chaplain of COAT, as well as for his dedicated service to the Tennessee County Trustees Association and the citizens of Rutherford County. The award was presented during the COAT Awards Banquet at the 57th Annual COAT Conference, held November 12 at Dollywood’s HeartSong Lodge and Resort in Pigeon Forge.

“It is a great honor to be recognized by my peers,” Batey said. “Reflecting on this award, I have found it deeply humbling to be listed among the outstanding officials who have mentored me and whom I have viewed with the greatest respect and appreciation.”

During the same conference, Rutherford County Clerk Lisa Duke Crowell was elected by fellow county clerks from across Tennessee to serve as President of the Tennessee Association of County Clerks.

Crowell described the conference as exceptional in a social media post following her election. “I am honored to represent the Tennessee Association of County Clerks as the newly elected President,” Crowell said. “It is a great privilege to be surrounded by the other 94 county clerks of Tennessee during this special year. We look forward to an educational, professional, and enjoyable year.”

Rutherford County Mayor Joe Carr praised both Batey and Crowell for their continued service and leadership. “Rutherford County is thankful for our Trustee and County Clerk,” Carr said. “Their integrity and service to the community are exemplary. The services executed in their respective offices are beyond reproach and evidenced by the accolades of their peers.”

More on the 2 Photos Above This Article (Left to Right): COAT Executive Director Ben Rodgers, Rutherford County Trustee Teb Batey, Tennessee County Trustees President Randi French and in the top right photo:  Rutherford County Clerk Lisa Duke Crowell