Jim Coppinger sworn in as Hamilton County mayor

Hamilton County Commission Chairman Jim Coppinger became the county mayor this morning at a swearing-in ceremony at the county courthouse at 9 a.m.

Meanwhile Mitch McClure, a volunteer chaplain at the Sheriff's Office, has confirmed his interest in the District 3 seat previously held by Coppinger. McClure gave the opening invocation at this morning's ceremony.

Coppinger, 55, is the former Chattanooga fire chief. He acknowledged former Chattanooga Mayor Jon Kinsey who was in the audience. Kinsey appointed Coppinger fire chief and actively campaigned for his appointment.

As of this morning, Coppinger's picture was already prominently displayed on the Hamilton County website.

Coppinger took note of today being Jan. 11, 2011. He said 11 has been his lucky number throughout his life.

"It's gonna be a lot of exciting things that's going to happen in this county," Coppinger said. "We're looking for a seamless transition."

Read more in tomorrow's Times Free Press.

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