About Garnett:
Garnett was born and raised in Frankfort, Kentucky. He and his wife, Tracey, moved to middle Tennessee in 2024. Their connection to the area began long before that when they both graduated from Belmont University in 1992. They have one son, Grayson, a 2023 Belmont alumnus.
Garnett has an A.A. from Kentucky State University’s Great Books program. He also spent a semester abroad at Oxford University before transferring to Belmont where he graduated in 1992 with a B.A. in history and political science.
Garnett brings three decades of experience in government, policy, and communications to the role including several years as a radio news director, working for leadership in the Kentucky House of Representatives before serving in senior roles in executive branch of Kentucky state government including as legislative liaison for the state’s utility regulatory agency and later as executive director of legislative affairs for the state’s environmental and public protection cabinet which oversaw utilities, coal mining, banking, insurance, building and construction, and horse racing. Before joining Williamson, Inc, Garnett served as senior policy consultant for the Kentucky School Boards Association for 12 years where he also returned to school to earn his M.A. in education, specifically in social studies.
How Garnett Serves Our Community:
As Director of Government & Community Relations, Garnett leads Williamson, Inc.’s effort to grow and build a strong working relationship with elected and senior government officials, particularly at the local level in Williamson County and its six municipalities. This includes serving as a resource for local officials and the business community. He manages the chamber’s related programs including Policy Talks, Meet the Candidates, candidate forums, and other policy initiatives.
Community Involvement:
Belmont University Alumni Board, Vice President (2025-2026), Member (2024-Present)
Belmont University Alumni Scholarship Committee (2024-Present)
Belmont Mansion Foundation Board (2025-Present)
Belmont University Purpose Mentorship Program (mentoring a student each semester)
Transportation Management Association Board Member (2026-Present)