Curtis Hayes joined Performance Services as a municipal consultant in the fall of 2024. Curtis served as Mayor of Livingston, Tennessee, from 2006 to 2024, becoming the city’s second-longest-serving mayor and a historic figure as the first African American elected to the office in both Livingston and Overton County. A lifelong resident of the community, Hayes brought a deep commitment to public service and a hands-on approach to leadership that earned him statewide recognition and the trust of his constituents over nearly two decades.
Hayes began his public service career at age 16 as a groundskeeper while in high school and college, and later joined the Livingston Police Department. His dedication to community engagement and local government led him to run for and win a seat on Livingston’s City Council in 2000. Just six years later, he was elected mayor, where he championed transparent leadership and a “people-first” philosophy.
Under Hayes’ leadership, the city made notable strides in public safety and municipal development. His administration prioritized investing in police and fire services, raising officer wages, and hiring full-time firefighters. His commitment to building a safer and more responsive city earned him accolades, including being named “Mayor of the Year” by the Tennessee Municipal League (TML) in 2011.
Hayes served on multiple statewide boards during his tenure, including the Tennessee Municipal League (President), Public Entity Partners (Chairman), Tennessee Homeland Security, Tennessee Renewable Energy, and the Tennessee Municipal Bond Fund. His influence extended beyond Livingston as he helped shape policy and best practices for municipalities across the state. Hayes was appointed to the Tennessee Homeland Security Board by Governor Phil Bredesen.
After 18 years of dedicated leadership, Hayes chose not to seek re-election in 2024. His legacy remains one of service, accessibility, and meaningful progress for the community he called home.
Achievements
- Roane State Community College
- Graduate of TN Law Enforcement Training Academy
- Graduate of the University Of TN MTAS – Public Administrator
- Graduate of the University Of TN Naifeh Ctr. – Certified Public Manager
- Municipal Certified Policy Maker for the State of TN
- Certified in Economic and Community Development
- Former Policeman and Deputy Sheriff, 2000-2005
- Elected Mayor of Livingston, TN in 2006-2018 (5 terms)
- TN Municipal League Mayor of the Year in 2011
- TN Municipal League President, 2013
- Public Entity Partners Chairman, 2014 -2025
- Board of Trustee, Livingston Regional Hospital
- University Of TN MTAS Advisory Board, 2008-2012
- Volunteer State Community College Board of Directors, 2006-2024
