Zeb Smathers

Zeb L. Smathers is a dedicated public servant and community leader who loves Canton, North Carolina. He received his Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Duke University in 2005 and his Juris Doctorate from the University of North Carolina School of Law in 2008. Zeb practices law in Canton and is an active North Carolina State Bar member.

Zeb is currently serving as the Mayor of Canton, having been elected to the position in November 2017. Before serving as Mayor, he served on the Board of Aldermen from November 2013 through November 2017. Zeb has also been recognized for his work in the legal profession, receiving several honors, including the Mountaineer Readers’ Choice Award for Best Attorney in 2015, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, and 2022.

Zeb's commitment to Canton extends beyond his work in local government and the legal profession. He is an ordained deacon at the Canton First Baptist Church. He has been actively involved in various community organizations, including serving on the boards, and is the past Chairman of the Southwest Committee. Zeb has also served as the Chairman of the Haywood and Jackson County March for Babies and is a volunteer for the Salvation Army.

Zeb's leadership and service to Canton have not gone unnoticed, and he has been recognized with numerous awards and honors. In addition to the Mountaineer Readers' Choice Awards, Zeb has been named a recipient of The Mountaineer 40 Under Forty Award, graduated from the North Carolina Bar Association Leadership Academy Class, and participated in The Hunt Institute State Policy Fellows Program and the NewDeal Leader program.

Zeb's dedication to his hometown is apparent in his extensive involvement in the community and his commitment to public service. He works tirelessly to make Canton a better place for all its residents.