Neil Koonce

What is your vision for Knoxville 10 years from now? 1. See Knoxville prosper financially by increasing economic development by attracting new employers and businesses; encouraging local business incubation; increasing workforce development for local citizens; maintain conservative fiscal policies in local government that keep the area affordable. 2. See Knoxville prosper intellectually by investing in high-impact K-12 schools (public and private) though a commitment to recruit and retain talented teachers, principals, and administrators. Make the most of the University of Tennessee to increase the quality of life in our city through research, thought leadership, talent, and innovation via higher education. 3. See Knoxville prosper physically through health promotion and disease prevention. 4. See Knoxville prosper spiritually by supporting people of faith and places of worship. 5. See Knoxville prosper as a travel destination by capitalizing on our natural resources; become better known for our culinary culture; showcase our international community; attract and host great music and entertainment events. What is Knoxville's best kept secret? The hospitality and work ethic of Knoxvillians. What would you do to strengthen Knoxville?

• Increase awareness of local entrepreneurship and support it.
• Recruit businesses to Knoxville that can both draw visitors and create employment.
• Improve the plan to make Knoxville a destination city for tourism through recreation, music, shopping, entertainment, and food.
• Unite the people of our city across geographical boundaries, political parties, and demographics by focusing on common goals and meaningful improvements for our city.
• Pursue good fiscal stewardship in local government to keep the area affordable to all residents.

What is your favorite Knoxville memory? Attending the 1982 World's Fair. What is your favorite book or what book is currently on your nightstand? Current - Faithful Presence by Bill Haslam What is the best advice you have received from a mentor, and who was that mentor? "If you understand the ""Why"", you can deal with almost any ""How"". Dr. Doug Sager. (This basically applies to any obstacle, challenge, or goal in life. If there is enough belief, passion, and conviction to pursue something significant, it will provide you motivation, energy, and attitude to solve the challenges and accomplish the task.) " What advice would you give to your 16 year old self? Be less impulsive and less self-sufficient and instead seek wise counsel from trusted friends that are more mature/more educated, and with different life experiences.