Henderson Makes History as Pleasant View's First Elected Female Mayor

Henderson and the other newly elected town officials are scheduled to be sworn into office on December 14 (Photo: Submitted)

Meghan Henderson has made history as the first woman elected mayor of Pleasant View following the November 3, 2026, municipal election, receiving 53.51% of the vote in a three-candidate race.

According to unofficial results released by the Cheatham County Election Commission, Henderson received 1,076 votes, defeating Gary Garrett, who received 719 votes (35.75%), and Jeremy Rash, who received 216 votes (10.74%). All precincts reported their results.

Henderson, who previously served on the Pleasant View Board of Aldermen, brings more than three years of experience in local government to the position.

Her involvement in municipal affairs began in 2020 and 2021, when proposed residential developments raised concerns about increased traffic, flooding, and the potential effects of high-density housing on the community. Those concerns prompted her to begin attending public meetings, speaking with neighbors, and encouraging greater participation in local government.

A comment made by the town's mayor during that period influenced Henderson's decision to remain involved beyond individual development issues. She began regularly attending municipal meetings to better understand local government operations and the decisions affecting Pleasant View residents. In March 2023, she was appointed to fill a vacant seat on the Board of Aldermen. She subsequently ran for election in 2024 and was elected to continue serving.

During her tenure as an alderman, Henderson served as the Board of Mayor and Aldermen's liaison to the Pleasant View Parks and Recreation Board. She also participated in municipal decisions involving town administration, budgeting, and local government operations.

In a public statement issued shortly before Election Day, Henderson explained her reasons for seeking the office. "I want to be a voice for our residents, provide experienced leadership, and help guide Pleasant View through the growth and decisions ahead while preserving the small-town character that makes our community special." She also encouraged residents to remain engaged in local government regardless of their political preferences, emphasizing the importance of community participation in decisions affecting the town.

Henderson's election comes as Pleasant View continues to address matters involving residential development, infrastructure, municipal services, and future growth.

In addition to the mayoral race, Pleasant View voters elected Heather Brown Hardwick and H.T. Wilson to the town's two open alderman seats. Hardwick received 1,230 votes, while Wilson received 788 votes. Bruce Drake was also elected to fill an unexpired alderman term, receiving 972 votes to Tammy Chandler Mathews' 947 votes.

The November 3 election also included a local sales and use tax referendum, which voters rejected by a margin of 56.88% to 43.12%, according to unofficial county election results.

Henderson and the other newly elected town officials are scheduled to be sworn into office on December 14, 2026, marking the beginning of a new chapter in Pleasant View's municipal leadership.