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Elizabethton’s city manager says farewell … for now

By Ashley Rader

Elizabethton’s Fred Edens was surrounded by well-wishers offering their congratulations during a reception Thursday

afternoon in honor of his retirement as city manager.

Edens enters retirement today after almost five years with the city. He was hired in April 2008 and was Elizabethton’s 18th city manager. He served in the Army for 22 years and with the Tennessee Department of Children’s Services before coming to work in Elizabethton.

Edens said he was thankful for the reception in his honor.

“It is hard to think of words to say at a time like this,” he said. “We are told to be thankful in all things and I thank the Lord for being able to stand here today. Without his protection, I would not be here. I have served with some of the finest people. This is a great city and there are so many great people here. I am proud to say that my ancestors are from this region. There is a season for all things, and the time has come for me to retire.”