Cumberland And Putnam Mayors Speak At CTAS Orientation Program

Cumberland County Mayor Allen Foster was one of five mayors that spoke on a panel at the CTAS COOP that concluded this week.

Every four years, the orientation program prepares newly elected officials for county government roles. Foster said he discussed purchasing and laws that offices must follow.

“When you walk into the job, it’s a big job,” Foster said. “I remember four years ago my best session was this one. When people were telling me what I could expect, and I wanted to sort of return that favor.”

Foster said he shared his perspective to new mayors about what to expect and answered questions. Putnam County Mayor Randy Porter also joined Foster at the round table discussion.

“This was more about being a mentor and trying to help the new people coming in,” Foster said. “37 I believe of the 95 county mayor’s turned over, almost 40 percent are new. Even if you’ve been a commissioner for several years, you’re walking into an unknown.”

CTAS or the County Technical Advisory Services is an extension of the University of Tennessee. The orientation was held in Franklin this week.