Wednesday, February 27, 2013
Commissioner Chris Jackson Named State Director For National Organization
Press Release
Lawrence County Commissioner Chris D. Jackson 
has been named State Director for Tennessee for the Young Elected Officials Network, a national organization made up of elected officials between the age of 18 and 35. The organization's mission is to unite and support leaders under the age of 35 who share a passion for public service and building progressive and sustainable 21st Century communities.
The organization assists young elected officials by providing opportunities for officials to exchange ideas, network with like-minded elected officials, develop leadership skills, and connect with policy development organizations and think tanks. The Young Elected Officials Network said that Jackson was selected as State Director because he has demonstrated the characteristics and attitude to be a leader amongst his peers and to champion the efforts of the YEO Network in Tennessee.
Jackson, who represents the 2nd District area of Loretto, was first elected to the county commission in 2006 at the age of 19, becoming one of the youngest elected officials in the country and in the history of Tennessee. He was then re-elected in 2010 with 62% of the vote. While in office Jackson has worked diligently on issues that are vital to Lawrence County’s current and future success including property tax reform, improving the county educational system, revamping the county's economic development policy, enhancing government transparency, improving rural fire departments and public safety and running water lines to citizens who need water.
During his tenure, Jackson has made it a point to be as accessible as possible to the people and to keep his constituents informed on county business by penning regular op-eds in the local paper, corresponding with citizens on Facebook, making his cell phone and personal email available and even sending out mass electronic calls to constituents on important issues facing their district. During his six years of service, Jackson has maintained a 100% attendance record for all regular session meetings of the county commission.
In May of 2011, Jackson was recognized for his leadership when he was selected by the National Associations of Counties (NACo) as one of 100 county officials from around the nation to participate in a historic meeting at the White House in Washington D.C. to discuss the issues confronting county governments.
"It is a true honor to be selected as the State Director of the Young Elected Officials Network for the State of Tennessee, Jackson said of his appointment. The issues that our county, state and nation face are complex and will take real leadership from our next generation to solve. As State Director, it will be my goal to encourage young people from all around our state to stand up and take responsibility for our future by running for office and confronting these tough issues head on with bold solutions.”
Jackson also believes that his new position will also benefit Lawrence County. “Serving in this capacity will not only benefit the people of my district but our county as a whole. Relationships in government are vital to success. And this organization has contacts across the country, in all branches of government. Having these contacts as my disposal will be a plus when it comes to issues that county government may need help on in the future.”
The son of Roger and Judy Jackson, Chris Jackson is an University of North Alabama Alum and active member of the Loretto Lions Club where he is a former vice president and current Secretary of the Lions Retirement Home. He is engaged to Kailea Daniels of Leoma. The two are set to marry on August 25th of this year.
