Peter O’Leary has been a dedicated member of the Chimney Rock Village community since 1990, when he began his tenure as park manager before the area was incorporated into the state parks system. In 1992, he and his wife, Ann, established Bubba O’Leary’s General Store, a beloved local business named after their yellow Labrador retriever.
O’Leary’s commitment to public service led him to join the Village Council in 2015, where he has been serving his second term. As mayor, he has been instrumental in guiding the village through significant challenges, including the devastating impact of Hurricane Helene in September 2024. The hurricane caused extensive damage, with a massive surge of water destroying numerous structures and altering the town’s landscape. Despite the destruction, Mayor O’Leary has remained steadfast, emphasizing the community’s spirit and determination to rebuild. Under his leadership, Chimney Rock Village has undertaken recovery efforts, including infrastructure repairs and support for local businesses. Mayor O’Leary’s hands-on approach is evident in initiatives like the completion of a temporary bridge to restore access for Southside property owners. Through his unwavering dedication, Peter O’Leary exemplifies resilient leadership, guiding Chimney Rock Village toward a promising and revitalized future.
