About
Nestled in the heart of Morgan County, Rutledge is a small town with deep Southern roots, historic charm, and a strong sense of community. Founded in the 1800s along the railroad, Rutledge is known for its tree-lined streets, welcoming atmosphere, and beautifully preserved historic district. Residents and visitors alike enjoy the town's slower pace, local events, and easy access to the natural beauty of nearby lakes, farms, and outdoor recreation.
Located just minutes from Madison and less than an hour from Atlanta and Athens, Rutledge offers the perfect balance of small-town living and convenient access to larger cities. The town is surrounded by rolling countryside, working farms, and scenic landscapes that reflect the timeless beauty of rural Georgia. Community gatherings, local businesses, and a strong connection to the area's history continue to make Rutledge a place where neighbors know one another and traditions are valued.
Whether you're visiting for the day, exploring the historic downtown, or looking for a place to call home, Rutledge offers the kind of hometown character, peaceful setting, and neighborly spirit that make it a truly special place to live, work, and visit.
Population: Approximately 1,000 residents
Location: Morgan County, Georgia
Known For: Historic downtown, Southern hospitality, small-town charm, and its proximity to Hard Labor Creek State Park, Lake Oconee, and the scenic countryside of central Georgia.
Our Team
TIM ODUM
City Mayor
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Tim Odum began his term of office as Mayor of Rutledge on January 1, 2026.
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He and his wife , Marilyn, of 29 years moved to Rutledge five years ago when he retired from Georgia Pacific after 47 years a Procurement Forrester. This experience has taught him the value of planning ahead, working with people and protecting resources. These skills, he feels will be valuable to his leadership in Rutledge.
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As Mayor, he is committed to preserving small town character and its charm, supporting local voices, responsible growth and stewardship.
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He is an active member of Rutledge Methodist Church and serves as Council Chairman. He is a supporter of the concert series, Memorial Day Festival and Parade and Christmas in the Country Festival.
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His wife, Marilyn is an active member of the Rutledge Garden Club.
Georgia Power Company
I moved to Rutledge in 2019, where we found the great small-town community, we were looking for. My wife and I have two children, 13 and 16, and have enjoyed watching our family grow within the community. To keep Rutledge “Small but Special”, I want to do everything I can to preserve the small-town ambiance while controlling growth and improving city infrastructure.
RUSSELL BROWNLEE
For 25 years, my husband and I have proudly called Rutledge home and value its small-town character. My goal is to collaborate with city leadership to prioritize residents and ensure responsible growth.
Community Leader
SHERRY KELLY
Mr. Sells began his first term as City Council Post 2 in January 2016. He and his wife of 48 years have 3 children. He and his family have lived in Rutledge for almost 13 years. Mr. Sells served in the US Navy for 4 years as a Hospital Corpsman and Laboratory Technician and served in Vietnam aboard the hospital ship, USS Sanctuary. He has a BS in Biology and also has a degree in Medical Technology. After his service in the Navy, he was employed as the Laboratory Manager at several hospitals and laboratories in Macon. He was also employed as the Laboratory Manager at Morgan Memorial Hospital for 10 years before his retirement. His interests include coaching softball and kick ball for Special Needs individuals, and traveling. His goals are "listening to, and assisting citizens of Rutledge and helping to promote controlled growth"
City Council
ANTHONY SELLS
Mrs. Thompson was elected to City Council Post 4 in August 2004. She serves as Mayor Pro Tempore, and also represents Rutledge in the Bioterrorism Committee of the Morgan County Health Department. Her goals are "to work together with the Mayor and other Council members and serving the citizens of Rutledge to the best of our ability. We want to work on improvements of sidewalks/streets, getting our lift stations in great working condition and to prepare for the growth of our town and surrounding areas while maintaining our "Small but Special" atmosphere."
City Council
BRENDA THOMPSON