Athens City Council Appoints Perry McCowan to Vacant Council Seat

The Athens City Council has appointed Perry McCowan to fill the vacant council seat during its special-called meeting held on December 4, 2025. The vacancy was created following the October resignation of Dr. Dick Pelley.

The Council received five applications for the open position and, after consideration, selected Mr. McCowan, a long-time Athens resident with more than three decades of service at Johnson Controls/Adient. During his 32-year tenure, he worked in a variety of roles that strengthened his understanding of local industry and workforce needs.

Before beginning his civilian career, Mr. McCowan served three years in the United States Army with the 101st Airborne Division, stationed at Fort Campbell, Kentucky, further grounding his lifelong commitment to service.

Mr. McCowan is also well known for his civic engagement. His community involvement includes service on the Athens City Council Advisory Committee, as well as the Hope Center Board and the Free Hill Team Project.

Mr. McCowan was sworn into office on December 4th and will serve until the next municipal election in November 2026.