For weeks people have been asking Gary Lee, Erie County Director of Administration under the Kathy Dahlkemper administration, what he was planning to do next after her term in office was up.
Erie News Now has learned the answer.
Gary Lee has accepted a position as CEO of the newly created Erie County Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Commission.
The commission was formed in 2021, and as of September 28, Erie County Council seated a full board of directors for the commission.
The newly formed entity's purpose is to address Resolution 43 which declared racism as a public health crisis in Erie County.
According to information on the county's website, in accordance with the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021: "The function of the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Commission shall be to organize a structure which will invest in racially diverse populations by granting funding that creates opportunities for minority populations, lobbies for inclusive policy, and empowers minority populations throughout Erie County while adhering to the ARPA guidelines and policies."
Gary Lee confirmed to Erie News Now that he is excited about the new opportunity, and that he has signed the paperwork to accept the position, but declined to talk about it further until he has approval from the board chairperson for the commission to do so.
The board held its first meeting on October 20, 2021 and elected officers.
Meetings will be held on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of the month at 8:30 a.m. at the Erie County Courthouse.