WDEF News 12

Comments Below: 0

[0]

A decisive victory for Andrae McGary in the District 8 City Council Run off. He picked up 71 percent of the votes against 19 year incumbent Leamon Pierce.McGary and his supporters celebrate an overwhelming victory.

The new District 8 City Council member thanked the voters for their support.

 Andrae McGary, "I'm just excited that they have decided to put their trust in me and I'm just humbled by the confidence that they've expressed in me by their vote."

McGary also paid tribute to his opponent long-time council member Leamon Pierce.

Pierce was among those who filed a lawsuit against the city that successfully changed the form of government allowing council districts.

 McGary, "I certainly want to build bridges and I recognize that Leamon has played such an instrumental part in allowing young people like me to be where we are today so I would be remiss not to thank him for the contribution that he has made and I will be standing on his shoulders and I do hope that I will be able to build relationships with as many council people as possible to move forward an agenda that's going to benefit our city."

Pierce, "It's very disappointing. I looked at my past and what I have stood for over the past years and to look at it end this way it's almost unbelievable. I realized that all things come to an end I wish Andrae the best of luck in his new position.">

Pierce says he's ready to move on and see what the next phase holds for him.

He's proud of the changes he's made in the City of Chattanooga.

Though he admits he probably stepped on a few toes along the way.

Pierce, "I look back at my record and I have nothing to be ashamed of. I have worked for the people my entire life and I will continue to do the same as I've did in the past."

Looking to the future, first on McGary's agenda... unifying the district, tackling crime, offering educational opportunities outside of school and providing beautiful places for recreation .

[1]