Finbarr Saunders, who is running for Knox County Commissioner District 4, Seat A, helped the Knoxify Guys start the Young Professionals of Knoxville. We were super-pumped to see his response to our questions below.
1. Introduce yourself to Knoxville, who are you, and why are you running?
Who is Finbarr Saunders and why is he running?
I am a Knox County native, married to Ellen Bebb, a 6th grade teacher with the Oak Ridge Schools. I have two children, Emily Woodle & Robert Saunders, and a granddaughter, Katelynn Saunders.
In 1966 I received a Bachelor of Arts in history and political science from Transylvania University, in Lexington, Kentucky.
I am a Vietnam veteran, and I worked for 14 years in banking. Currently, I am the office manager for Novinger, Ball & Zivi, Public Accountants
I have served this community for over 30 years in various volunteer organizations such as the West Knoxville Sertoma Club, East Tennessee Children’s Hospital, East Tennessee Historical Society, Knoxville Historic Zoning Commission, Westwood Homeowners’ Association, Knox Heritage, Bearden Council, and the Downtown Design Review Board. I am and have been an active and involved citizen for many years.
2. We think it’s better knowing what not to do rather than having an extensive plan. What areas or interests would benefit Knox County not to venture into?
One area we need to address is good development. We should not venture into development that is done without a collaborative and thoughtful process. Development should benefit the over-all community and should not have a negative impact the environment.
3. What 5 things could you not live without?
Five things I could not live without (other than my family) are a healthy education system, a good library system, a sound infrastructure, a vibrant downtown, and people working together to find common ground in the community.
Before I close, I would like to ask you to interact with your elected officials and candidates so they will know what community issues are important to YOU. It’s important that your elected officials hear from you and that your voice is heard!
Good luck with the YPK! Thank you for getting involved!