What they said

Elected officials who worked alongside Hamilton County Mayor Jim Coppinger reflected on his legacy on Wednesday after he announced he would not seek re-election in 2022. Here’s what they had to say:

› Chattanooga Mayor Tim Kelly: “The strength of his leadership made our community stronger, more prosperous, and I’m fortunate to have him as a partner. We’ll have lots of time and opportunities in the next nine and a half months to honor and celebrate Mayor Coppinger. With this announcement of his well-deserved retirement, I will be reflecting on the importance of sound and people-focused public leadership.”

› State Rep. Robin Smith, R-Hixson: “Throughout these years, he has built an incredible legacy of leadership, collaboration and public service that has positioned Hamilton County for continued success. For that, we are all thankful for everything he has done for our community.”

› District Attorney Neal Pinkston: “Jim Coppinger exemplifies true public service for this city and county. He is a person I have often sought advice from and he has been a continual supporter of public safety, prosecutors and solving cold cases. I wish him and his family peace and enjoyment in retirement and all of God’s blessings.”

› Hamilton County Sheriff Jim Hammond: “Jim exemplifies what it is to be a good and strong leader. The way he handled COVID-19 is a prime example of that. His years of service as a commissioner and as a firefighter before that prepared him perfectly to be county mayor, and you can see it in the way he made his decisions.”