To the Editor:
I met Mr. Joseph Lee shortly after my family moved to Oak Ridge in 2005. He introduced himself to me and welcomed us to Oak Ridge. Mr. Lee did not ask me if I was a Democrat or Republican, didn’t ask about our religion, or what my background was. He simply welcomed me to Oak Ridge! He may not even remember.
Early on as a resident, I got involved in promotion of the city in the campaign to bring Target to Oak Ridge. Even as a short-time resident, it was easy to see Oak Ridge needed more shopping options and opportunities to increase both sales and property tax bases. I observed Joe Lee promoting passage of the referendum.
Mr. Lee’s promotion of and work in support of Oak Ridge didn’t end with Oak Ridge losing Target. I learned that Mr. Lee was on the board of the Oak Ridge Board of Building and Housing Code Appeals. Among work on that board, Joe Lee proffered the strategy that formed the basis of the plan to restore the Guest House. Mr. Lee worked diligently to affect resolutions of blighted and abandoned properties.
I started attending City Council meetings around 2008. There is one person I do not remember ever not seeing at those meetings, that is Joe Lee. I observed Mr. Lee to be professional, informed about issues and solutions, and passionate about the growth of Oak Ridge. He has never wavered. Mr. Lee is also a team player. Look no further than successful projects at the University of Tennessee completed by Mr. Lee and his construction team. Those strengths—professionalism, intelligence of city issues, passion for our city and the ability to work with others—are needed on Oak Ridge City Council to keep us moving forward.
In closing, let me speak of how polite Mr. Lee has been to me. There are some political issues on which Mr. Lee and I do not agree. I know; he knows. I have asked for his views and opinions at times, and I have given mine. Not once has Mr. Lee been unfair on uncivil to me. Talking and listening can bring results that more people support.
Make no mistake, Joe Lee and I agree on plans for our city’s future. A few years have passed since first meeting Mr. Lee. I am happy to call him a friend. I recommend Joseph Lee for your consideration as City Councilman.
Mike Mahathy
Oak Ridge
Charlie Hensley says
Thank you, Mike. You are right-on with respect to Joe Lee and his dedication and passion for our City.
Matt Bailey says
This election is about who wants to do something POSITIVE for Oak Ridge. Joe’s been doing that for years. Thank you Mr. Lee for your years of service. Here’s hoping you get four more on city council. There’s lots to be done. It’s time we get started.
Joseph Lee says
Thank you Matt. I agree. There is a lot to do. Let’s get it. It’s turn out time.
Emilee Smith says
Mike, you are spot on! Joe Lee has the qualities I want in a member of city council. We have been hearing about wonderful things happening in and to Oak Ridge for the past several months. Joe’s enthusiasm regarding continued growth is exactly what Oak Ridge needs! Thank you, Joe!
Joseph Lee says
Mike, Thanks again.
Levi D. Smith says
I’m voting “NO” on Joe Lee. He was in favor of the red light and speed camera revenue generation scam that stagnated Oak Ridge in 2009 and the years that followed. We don’t need to go back to that type of thinking.
Matt Bailey says
Mr. Smith, Farragut has ’em. Did they stagnate that community? I’d like to think that we would revisit the cameras around the schools to enhance safety and security. AND, to make up the $500,000 we lost disconnecting them.
Joseph Lee says
Matt, good points. BTW, the revenue loss is $500,000 per year. Thank you.
Gary Love says
Out of all the people that promised to come and help Habitat for Humanity of Anderson County’s pancake breakfast at Applebees, Joe was the only one that walked the talk. He showed up to support us. Im not for red light cameras, but I like it when a politician actually does what they say they are going to do.
Joseph Lee says
Thanks Gary. I appreciate Habitat picking up the construction supplies and furniture from my house. I still have a bunch of plumbing stuff that I want you to have also. I just haven’t got them boxed up yet. Been very busy. Imagine that. Thanks again.
Matt Bailey says
Why not!! Great idea. Or the 8th rowing lane, which is a great project for our city!!!!