Tracy Wandell announces reelection bid
Anderson County District 1 Commissioner Tracy Wandell and family. (photo:Submitted )
“My unwavering commitment to representing the people of District 1 remains my sole motivation to serve our community and our entire county,”Wandell said.
First elected in 2006, Wandell said he has always taken a hands-on approach to understanding the position, continually applying himself to learn more about local and state government.
“Guided by conservative values, I have never voted for a property tax increase during my tenure,” Wandell said. “My goal remains steadfast: to ensure absolute fiscal responsibility, safeguard the success of our county, and work diligently to keep our tax rates in check.”
During his time on the commission, Wandell said he has championed numerous projects that have directly benefited the community.
“I am proud to have supported:
• Establishing a full-time County Veterans Service Office.
• The EPA and TDEC environmental cleanup of the old American Nuclear site.
• Eliminating the open sewer treatment pit in Claxton.
• Securing [crucial] infrastructure upgrades, including electrical improvements to Mountainview Park and countywide pavement improvements funded by ARPA.
• Enhancing public safety by spearheading an EMS operational audit and a countywide radio system upgrade for the Tennessee Advanced Communications Network.
Wandell said he had the privilege of serving as chairman of the Anderson County Board of Commissioners in 2018 and 2019.
Over the years, he said, he has brought experienced leadership to many boards, serving as chairman of the Conservation, Intergovernmental, Fire Commission and Veterans Services Advisory committees, alongside seats on Finance, Budget, Operations, Highway and Rules.
“For the past decade, I have also been highly active at the state level within the Tennessee County Commissioners Association, working to ensure Anderson County has a strong voice in Nashville,” Wandell said. “I have served in several leadership roles on both the TCCA Board of Directors and Executive Committee, and I am currently serving my second term as the statewide TCCA Treasurer.”
“Moving forward, my vision centers on managing balanced growth while meeting our [crucial] infrastructure and local service needs,” Wandell said. “Over the past 15 years, I have taken an active role with the Energy Communities Alliance and, more recently, the East Tennessee Economic Council, to understand the evolving landscape of the Department of Energy.
New nuclear and energy demands will play a major role in our nation’s energy security, and the Oak Ridge Corridor sits at the very center of that solution. Effectively managing these opportunities, growth demands, and safety requirements will be [crucial] to our county’s long-term success.”
Beyond his work on the commission, Wandell said he is a proud husband to his lifelong friend and wife, Shannon Kelley Wandell.
“We are blessed with four wonderful children — Samantha, Kelley, Trace, and Macy — and three grandchildren, Finley, Sadie, and McKenna,” he said. “Our family values and faith carry us through our lives.”
Professionally, Wandell said he is employed by System One as a senior account executive, providing workforce solutions for the energy sector.
“I am also a Navy veteran, a member of Masonic Lodge 376, and a member and past president of the Optimist Club of Claxton,” he said.
“I sincerely hope and pray I can continue to serve the residents of District 1,” Wandell said. “I humbly ask for your vote and support in the upcoming county general election on Aug. 6.”
Early voting runs from July 17 through Aug. 1.
“If you have a question or would like to speak with me directly, please call me at 865-388-0921 or connect with me on Facebook,” Wandell said.
“I would love the opportunity to talk or meet with you. To everyone who has supported me and my family over the years, we are deeply grateful.”
