Mayor Morty Lloyd joined the Collegedale Board of Commissioners in December of 2022. After being sworn in as a commissioner, his fellow commissioners appointed him mayor. In addition to his new government role, Lloyd also serves as senior pastor of the Chattanooga Church in Chattanooga and major gifts officer for the Aircraft Owners & Pilots Association (AOPA). Now, almost a year since he became mayor, Lloyd reflects on his time in office so far and shares his vision for the city in an interview with the Southern Accent. The following information has been edited slightly for length and clarity.
1. How has your experience as mayor been so far? Has it been more difficult or fulfilling than you imagined?
My tenure as mayor started with a massive train derailment last December. That derailment involved three meetings a day with Norfolk Southern Railway. Throughout the process, I was able to represent the interests of the City of Collegedale, Southern Adventist University, McKee Foods and others. I also worked to provide timely and accurate communication to all parties involved. The joke around town was, “He’s only been mayor for a couple of weeks, and the city’s already a train wreck.” I think it’s important to laugh and keep a smile on your face during these stressful times. To answer your question, it has been more difficult and more fulfilling than I ever imagined. Unfortunately, there’s no manual for this job. However, as a new mayor, I appreciate the solid counsel I’ve received from my veteran commissioners.
2. What initially called you to a role in local government?
I was asked by a friend of mine to consider running for commission. I told him that I would first pray about it and discuss it with my wife. After much prayer, I felt the desire to run as a calling from God. My wife, Joyce, was solidly behind the decision. My mother, who served in Congress for 20 years, tried to get me to run for political office for many years. At that time, I never felt that God had opened the door. This election was different. God opened the door, and I entered. It was not until I ran that I sensed that this was part of God’s plan for my life and what He wanted me to do. It was very fulfilling.
3. Did you have any expectations going into this position? Have they been met? How have you been surprised?
I can honestly say that I had no expectations going into this position. My desire is to serve our citizens and make Collegedale a better community. There are a lot of hard decisions that have to be made. As a commission, we all vote our conscience and make decisions that we believe will best shape the future of our city. While we may not always agree, we all desire to make Collegedale a better place to live.
4. What are some common misconceptions about being mayor or your role/responsibility as mayor? What are your main responsibilities?
Unlike Chattanooga (or other large cities), Collegedale operates with a commission-city manager form of government. Under this model, the commission appoints a professional city manager to carry out day-to-day administrative operations. Fortunately, we have the privilege of working with an incredibly talented city staff and city manager, Wayon Hines. Many people think that I have an office at City Hall. I don’t. Wayon has an office there and does a great job as our city manager. As a commission, we provide direction to our staff through decisions that are made in our regularly scheduled commission meetings.
5. How did your extensive experience in fundraising and your time at the Mission Aviation Fellowship prepare you for your position now?
I have over 30 years experience in fundraising for various organizations. In my current role, I serve as the major gifts officer for the Aircraft Owners & Pilots Association (AOPA). As such, I advocate and raise money for causes that I am very passionate about. I feel that way about my service as mayor.
I’m incredibly passionate about our city. I believe that it is a wonderful place to live and advocate for this city everywhere I go. Collegedale is unique. We have a quality of life here that needs to be preserved and protected. We have wonderful parks and green spaces that define our city. My goal is to see Collegedale continue to invest in our strengths while continuing to preserve the quality of life that we enjoy.
6. What does a typical day look like for you?
I have to laugh at that question because there is no “typical” day. In addition to my roles as mayor and a fundraiser for AOPA, I also pastor a church part time. I love all three jobs and enjoy the challenges associated with each.
I’m an early riser. Normally, I start my day at 5 a.m., sometimes earlier. I like to start early and spend time with God before getting the day started. That keeps me centered. After that, it’s off to the office in my home or travel.
Each day is different, depending on the demands for that day. As mayor, it may mean attending a groundbreaking ceremony or going to City Hall to attend a meeting or sign an agreement. I like to conclude my day by 8 p.m. or earlier if possible. My wife and I like to spend quality time at the end of the day talking and enjoying a meal together. After that, go to bed and repeat.
7. What similarities are there between being a senior pastor and being mayor of Collegedale? Major differences?
The similarities are tremendous. Both jobs have a common denominator that is very important: people. Meeting the needs of the people is essential. With both positions, it’s important to listen and to be able to relate to their needs. Everyone has needs, spiritually, physical and financially. These times are difficult. People are struggling. As mayor, I have to be sensitive to our citizens’ needs but also to our city. Inflation has hit everyone in the wallet, including the City of Collegedale. It’s important to maintain our quality of life without compromising who we are. As a senior pastor and mayor, I answer to the people I serve. It’s an enormous, but rewarding, challenge.
8. What are some things you and the commission have been working on within the City of Collegedale? What are some plans or goals that you are working towards?
One of the needs we have is to create a city center. We’ve done a great job with The Commons and with our parks, especially Little Debbie Park. As we plan for the future, it will be important to attract nice restaurants and retail to make our city more livable. I’ve had a number of citizens express an interest in this. They want to be able to walk to have a nice meal in our city. By tying this into our existing infrastructure, we can create an even greater place to live.
9. What is the main thing you want the people of Collegedale to know about you and your position as mayor?
The main thing that I want people to know about me is that I care. They may not always agree with me or like me, but I care. I care about the future of our city and preserving the quality of life that drew us to this community. I believe in Collegedale and believe that we have the greatest community in Hamilton County. I appreciate the voters who elected me and look forward to serving them in the years to come.
10. What is the biggest lesson you have learned so far in this role?
Patience. I tend to want change immediately. I’ve had to learn in working in government that change doesn’t always happen that way. One example is the widening of Apison Pike. When it’s completed, it’s going to be a wonderful addition to our community. However, I’m like everyone else — I wish they would hurry-up. As mayor, I intend to be that voice that won’t be quiet. With every opportunity that I’m given, I will remind TDOT and Wright Brothers that we need this project completed. I appreciate their efforts and know that the finished product will be worth the wait.
