LAWRENCEBURG, TN — Wes Orton has been appointed to the Lawrenceburg City Council, filling the vacancy created by the June resignation of former Councilman Darryl Watson. Orton will serve through the November 2026 election.
A Lawrenceburg native and 2006 graduate of Lawrence County High School, Orton earned a bachelor’s degree in finance from Middle Tennessee State University and obtained his securities license. After graduating from college, he moved to Spring Hill and opened a Farmers Insurance agency specializing in home, auto, life and commercial insurance, as well as financial advisement. The agency remains active today.
Orton earned his real estate license in 2020 and founded Orton Realty Group in 2024, where he serves as broker. In 2025, the company opened its Lawrenceburg office at 403 W. Gaines Street.
“Lawrenceburg is the community that raised me, and it is now the place where my wife and I have chosen to raise our family,” Orton said. “I am honored to have the opportunity to serve the people of Lawrenceburg and contribute to the decisions that will shape our city’s future. I look forward to listening to our citizens, working alongside the mayor and council, and doing my part to help Lawrenceburg continue to grow while preserving the qualities that make it a special place to call home.”
Mayor Blake Lay welcomed Orton to the council and said his appointment demonstrates the importance of a new generation becoming involved in local government.
“Wes brings valuable experience as a business owner, financial professional and active member of our community,” Lay said. “It is especially encouraging to see younger citizens step forward and become involved in public service. The future of Lawrenceburg depends on people from every generation being willing to share their ideas, lend their talents and take an active role in their community. I look forward to working with Wes as we continue moving Lawrenceburg forward.”
Orton and his wife, Lana, who is a native of Loretto, returned to their hometown in 2022. They live in Lawrenceburg with their two daughters, Banks and Baker.
