Athens City council member resigns after 23 years of service

Dr. Dick Pelley | Courtesy: City of Athens, Tennessee

ATHENS, Tenn. (WDEF) — The Athens City Council has announced the resignation of Dr. Dick Pelley after 23 years of service.

His resignation occurred after the special called session on October 23, 2025 concluded.

Dr. Pelley has served on the Athens City Council since 2002, and has been a dedicated advocate for the Athens community.

He has had an active role on numerous boards, committees, and civic initiatives that have impacted and shaped the city’s progress.

Dr. Pelley’s service is marked by his decisions that kept the community in mind, and a staunch commitment to the citizens of Athens.

The Athens City Council will appoint a qualified candidate to fill the vacancy for the rest of the term, ending in November 2026.

Gratitude is expressed by the Athens City Council for Dr. Pelley’s years of public service and dedication to the City of Athens, Tennessee.