Council Member Perry McCowan was appointed to fill the vacant council seat during a special-called meeting held on December 4, 2025 and will serve until the next municipal election in November 2026.

Council Member McCowan is 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, he 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. 

Council Member 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.