The Full Story
About Mark
Mark Riggins was raised on his grandparents’ 160-acre farm in the Dotsonville community of Montgomery County. Growing up, he helped raise cattle, tobacco, hay, and a large family garden, experiences that instilled in him a strong work ethic and a deep appreciation for hard work and personal responsibility.
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In 1996, Mark began his career with the City of Clarksville as a laborer in the Street Department before moving to Clarksville Gas and Water. Over the years, he worked his way up through gas construction, equipment operation, welding, and crew leadership, gaining hands on experience in building and maintaining critical infrastructure. His strong work ethic and practical knowledge led him into engineering, where he helped manage inspections, utility easements, capital projects, and coordination with city, county, and state partners.
As his responsibilities grew, Mark served in several senior leadership roles at Clarksville Gas and Water, including Engineering Support Manager, Assistant Gas Manager, Interim General Manager, and General Manager. In these roles, he led large teams, managed multi million dollar budgets, worked closely with regulators, and handled complex negotiations with state agencies and Fort Campbell. He resolved major compliance issues, recovered significant funds owed to the city, improved employee pay and customer service policies, and helped pass legislation that protects ratepayers. In late 2025, his long term efforts culminated in the creation of an independent board for Clarksville Gas and Water, strengthening oversight and ensuring long term stability for both employees and customers.
Mark is running for Mayor of Clarksville because he believes the city needs experienced, steady, and servant-oriented leadership as it continues to grow. After nearly three decades working inside city government and serving two terms on the Montgomery County Commission, he understands how decisions are made, how infrastructure is built and maintained, and how policy impacts both taxpayers and city employees. He brings a proven record of results, deep knowledge of city operations and code, and a collaborative leadership style focused on responsible growth, fiscal discipline, and practical solutions that serve the entire community.
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Mark has been married to his wife, Cathy for 26 years, and considers her the center and grounding force of his life. Cathy is a longtime kindergarten teacher at Montgomery Central Elementary, and together they have raised two children, Lane and Mayson, who are now building their own professional futures. Mark is a devoted and loving husband and father, and his faith plays a central role in his life. A committed Christian, he has been an active member of Lone Oak Baptist Church for many years, serving as a deacon and Sunday school teacher. His family, faith, and commitment to service guide both his personal life and his vision for leading Clarksville with integrity, compassion, and purpose.
