Rhonda Lee, first-term commissioner from District 7 (Powell and Halls), was soundly rebuffed by her colleagues on November 18, 2024. Once again, she failed to read the room. Earlier story here.
Lee proposed a resolution that would defund local nonprofits like The Muse and the Tennessee Theatre that host programs that could impair the innocence of children. Read it here: Innocence of Children resolution
Lee’s motion failed, 8-3, and her colleagues told her why.
Terry Hill said if there are people in Knox County violating state law, then sic law enforcement on them or file a lawsuit. “This resolution is totally unnecessary.”
Courtney Durrett called it “government overreach.”
Adam Thompson asked finance director Chris Caldwell if Knox County currently funds organizations that are violating state law. Caldwell explained that nonprofits receive county funds on a contract for service that spells out what the county gets. Money going to the Tennessee Theatre, for instance, funds Musical Monday, a free program for seniors.
Commissioners listened to over an hour of citizens comments – both pro and con – before beginning their debate.
Lee asked for a roll call vote because “there are some people on this commission that may run for office and I want you on the record saying how you will support our children … or not.”
At-large Commissioner Larsen Jay, a declared candidate for county mayor in 2026, reminded Lee that she has voted for the last two budgets without a single question. “You essentially threatened this commission – if you don’t vote for my resolution, good luck in your next campaign.”
And the commission chair, Gina Oster, asked Lee who wrote the resolution. Lee would not say. “It was given to me.”
Oster said the resolution should have been brought up during debate on the budget. And furthermore, “You threatened every one of us. And that didn’t go over well.”
Yes votes came only from Lee and newcomers Andy Fox and Angela Russell.
