Outgoing Shelby County Mayor Lee Harris reflected on his eight years in office, the challenges facing local government, and his plans for after leaving public service during this week's Behind the Headlines with host Eric Barnes and Daily Memphian reporter Bill Dries.
During the discussion, Harris said one of the biggest challenges facing the next county mayor will be managing the state's takeover of Memphis-Shelby County Schools (MSCS) and the newly established oversight board.
"I think it's a wonderful job," Harris said. "It's an extraordinary opportunity to change things in Shelby County for hundreds of thousands of our residents. But there's some challenges on the horizon."
Harris stated that adding another layer of state oversight will complicate budgeting and decision-making for both the Shelby County government and MSCS. He said the county's relationship with the school system will become more challenging as authority shifts away from local officials.
He encouraged the next county mayor and sheriff to build a strong working relationship from the start of their terms, referring to it as a chance for a "reset."
In reflecting on his administration, Harris highlighted several accomplishments he is particularly proud of, including the expansion of healthcare services, investments in youth programs, enhancements in employee benefits, and new school construction initiatives. He also emphasized the county's $40,000 minimum wage for employees, the expansion of paid parental leave, and increased access to mental healthcare.
Looking ahead, Harris expressed concern that plans for new school construction, including the proposed East Regional High School, could be delayed under the state's new oversight structure. This could shift the focus from replacing aging facilities to simply maintaining them.
The discussion also touched on the county's finances. Harris recognized the need to strengthen the county's rainy day fund and reduce spending. He argued, however, that Shelby County remains financially stable, despite recent borrowing to manage cash flow between property tax collections.
As his second and final term comes to an end, Harris has announced that he plans to step away from elected office and return to teaching as a full-time professor. While he did not disclose where he will teach, Harris expressed his enthusiasm about returning to the classroom and taking a break from politics.
Harris also left open the possibility of returning to public office, but he stated that he has no current plans to seek another elected position.
