Lee Messersmith
Business Owner Entrepreneur
Elected Official
Community Developer
ABOUT ME
Who am I?
I'm a quirky different kind of guy. With an eclectic past and career experience, I've had the opportunity to rub shoulders and learn from a variety of industries and organizations. I love recycling broken systems and organizations as well as helping get new endeavors up off the ground. The majority of my life experience comes from serving and working in the non-profit sector all the while starting and managing a few of my own business ventures.
What do I want to be when I grow up? First, I don't plan to grow up and hopefully stay as young and exuberant as possible. Secondly, my personal life goal (or ethos to use a "big word") is to help influence and empower people to be the most they can possibly be. I love the idea of a BHAG (Big Hairy Audacious Goal), something so big and scary it's even hard to wrap your mind around. I believe we need to live big dreams and even bigger lives!
What do I believe?
I am someone who CARES about the future of Benton.
Collaborate with community organizations and city leadership. It is of the utmost importance that all should be working together to better our community.
Address infrastructure needs. Benton has an aging infrastructure and we should be proactive while also address issues that pop up.
Reinforce public safety depts. There will always be an increasing need for supporting and resourcing our police and fire depts.
Empower current and new business development. We have great businesses in Benton and should do all possible to help them succeed. Additionally, we should be actively pursuing new business developments creating employment opportunities and adding growth for the community.
Strengthen neighborhoods with community projects. Creating a community within the larger community by adding local playgrounds/parks and programs will bring neighbors and neighborhoods together.
