GATLINBURG,Tenn.—The City of Gatlinburg is excited to announce the appointment of Kelly Janis as its new Building Director.
With over 14 years of experience in local government building services, planning and community development, Janis brings an extensive background in project management, code compliance, and organizational leadership to her new role.
She began her role with the City of Gatlinburg on Monday, December 2.
"We are thrilled to welcome Kelly to the City of Gatlinburg’s team,” Gatlinburg City Manager Greg Patterson said. “Her extensive experience in local government, especially in building services, planning, and community development, combined with her track record of professionalism and efficiency, will play a vital role in shaping Gatlinburg’s bright future and making the City a great place to live, work, and visit."
Janis joins Gatlinburg from Weber County, Utah, where she served as a Plans Examiner in the Community Development Department from May 2019 through November 2024. Her public service career extends across multiple other local governments, including serving as a Plans Examiner for Salt Lake City’s Building Services Division from October 2017 to May 2019 and as a Planner for Salt Lake County from March 2014 to October 2017.
A native of Virginia, Janis began her public service career by serving as the Codes Enforcement Officer and City Planner for the City of Mountain Home in Elmore County, Idaho, from February 2006 through May 2013.
“I am honored to join the City of Gatlinburg and look forward to collaborating with the talented team here to support the community’s growth and development,” Janis said. “With millions of visitors each year, Gatlinburg is a vibrant City and I am excited to contribute to its future.”
Janis holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Business Administration and a Master of Public Administration. She holds many certifications by the International Code Council (ICC) and is currently working on obtaining more certifications to become an ICC Master Code Professional. She is also a former Registered Storm Water Inspector through the Utah Chapter of the American Public Works Association.
Her contributions to the field have earned her numerous accolades. She received the 2018 Chapter Service Award for her dedication and commitment to the Code Council’s Utah Chapter Education Committee. She was awarded as the Bonneville Chapter ICC Outstanding Building Official in 2021.
In 2022, she was named the 2022 Trailblazer Award from the ICC for Exemplary Mentorship, for her leadership and mentorship in the industry.
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