Newport's Louanna Ottinger receives TML's Robert Kirk Local Leadership Award

Since first being elected in 2018, Newport Alderwoman Louanna Ottinger has been described as someone who “naturally steps in, shows up, and looks for ways to make a difference in the lives of those around her” purely because she loves to serve.  

In recognition of her dedication to public service, Ottinger was awarded the Bob Kirk Local Government Leadership Award during the 86th Annual Conference of the Tennessee Municipal League (TML) held at the MeadowView Conference Resort & Convention Center in Kingsport, Tenn.  

The Robert Kirk Local Government Leadership Award is presented to a council member, alderman, or commissioner who is at least in their second term of service to their municipality and has shown themselves to be an outstanding public servant to their community. The award is named for the late Dyersburg City Alderman and TML Past President Robert “Bob” Kirk who served his city for nearly 51 years as an elected official.  

Nowhere was Ottinger’s dedication to Newport more clearly on display than in the wake of Hurricane Helene. The storm swept across the southern U.S. in September 2024, resulting in catastrophic flooding in East Tennessee, particularly in Newport. Ottinger served on a committee of city and county leaders tasked with navigating the aftermath, disbursing funds donated to disaster relief, and guiding the area’s recovery efforts.   

In a time of great uncertainty, she approached this task with fairness, compassion, and a steady commitment to do what was in the best interest of Newport. Her leadership ensured the distribution of resources thoughtfully and responsibly to residents and local businesses – many of whom were receiving no other financial assistance at the time. She also ensured public trust and transparency were maintained throughout the process.   

Upon hearing the city’s longest-running food pantry was holding a food drive to replace everything they had lost in the flooding, Ottinger stepped up to help. She leveraged her relationships to expand the reach of the effort and secured a no-cost opportunity to promote the food drive on a local morning radio show. Her support and advocacy grew awareness, prompting the community to respond. As a result, a vital resource was rebuilt to serve local families when they needed it most.   

Ottinger doesn’t just wait for disaster to strike to employ her resourcefulness and collaborative spirit. She consistently uses her role as alderwoman to bring people together, strengthen partnerships, and identify solutions that work for everyone. She balances strength and compassion, ensuring Newport continues to be held in high esteem because it prioritizes the well-being of its citizens.   

“Through her service, Louanna has made a meaningful and lasting impact on the city of Newport,” Newport Administrative Assistant Molly Ealy said. “She embodies the qualities of an effective and inspiring leader, and her dedication to public service sets a standard for others to follow. Alderwoman Ottinger does not simply meet the criteria for this award, she defines it through her actions, her leadership, and her unwavering commitment to her community.”  

Long before holding office, Ottinger learned the inner workings of local government both through her husband Mike – who dedicated more than 27 years to the Newport Fire Department – as well as through her active involvement in numerous community efforts and organizations, such as the Cocke County Business Women’s Club and Kiwanis Club.  

Ottinger approaches her office not just as an elected official but as a responsibility to care for her community, to listen to concerns, and lead with integrity. She also actively supports the mission of TML, valuing the importance that strong municipal leadership, collaboration, and advocacy. She works tirelessly to ensure Newport remains engaged, informed, and forward-thinking.