New assistant city manager settles into role
COVID-19 has ushered in many changes for Lexington. Businesses were forced to shut down. Some that closed for months are now reopening.
During this time, Chip Vanderzee was promoted to assistant manager of the City of Lexington. Previously, he was the Public Services Director.
“I decided to come to the City of Lexington in 2019, as I saw tremendous growth opportunity and excitement around the future Depot district,” Vanderzee stated. “I believe that my experience with growing new initiatives and building capacity will be helpful during a transition period for the community.”
Chip Vanderzee visits a site where grounding work is taking place in Lexington.
{Contributed photo}
Vanderzee, a husband and father of two, has lived in the Davidson County for more than 45 years. A graduate of North Davidson High School and Ashford University, he spent the early part of his career working for the City of High Point. His first position was a meter reader for the electric department. Over the years, he was promoted to supervisor and customer service manager. Later, he became division superintendent.
After 29 years in local government, he has decided to take a more personal approach in his career. Vanderzee discussed his goal to be a leader for society. He stated that he enjoyed (boy) scouting because of the citizenship in the community classes where they got to hear about helping others using policies and defined programs.
“It may sound a little corny, but I’ve always had a goal/dream to become an assistant city manager,” Vanderzee said. “I enjoy supporting others. I’m a servant leader who wants to help to improve the life of others around me. One thing that I bring to the table is a broad experience from my work in public service. I also bring a desire to help others and make long-term sustainable improvements to the systems we use each day.
Vanderzee’s plans for Lexington are to assist in growing the city and bring more economical benefits to help families progress due to multiple setbacks from COVID-19.
“I believe the development and responsible growth that I envision in Lexington, will impact our residents positively while helping others in the area,” Vanderzee said. “New jobs and more to do locally will help keep those media tax dollars in our hometown.”
While he believes that Lexington has lot to offer and great leadership to help guide it, Vanderzee acknowledges there will be growing pains.
“Lexington has a lot of catching up to do after this pandemic,” he noted. “The city/community has missed out on a lot and I for one am excited about concerts, festivals, and community activities where we can come together in fellowship. My goal is to help build on and support what others have started here in Lexington while growing the community and bringing new jobs to the area. I am committed to supporting the vision our city council has adopted and wish to build upon their goal for Lexington to be a community of choice.”
To contact Vanderzee, email him at svanderzee@lexingtonnc.gov.
