MANATEE COUNTY, FL (Feb. 8, 2022) – Lee Washington, a long-time leader in Manatee County Veterans and Community Services, has been named to Director of Neighborhood Services. Mr. Washington – who had been serving as Interim Director – was unanimously approved by Manatee County Commissioners today.
“I want to thank the Board for your confidence,” he said. “I look forward to doing great things with you.”
A native of Punta Gorda, Lee enlisted and served as U.S. Marine, on active duty from 1987-1998, serving stateside and abroad. He was honorably discharged at the rank of Staff Sergeant/E6, Infantry Platoon Sergeant. Upon returning to civilian life Mr. Washington worked as a personal bodyguard in Beverly Hills, CA, where he was responsible for the personal security of some of Hollywood’s highest profile personalities. He eventually moved back to his home state of Florida, where he began a career in mortgage banking for 10 years.
In 2009, following a desire to assist other veterans, Mr. Washington became a Veteran Services Counselor for Manatee County Veteran Services and was selected to the lead Veterans Services in May of 2013. Mr. Washington’s office oversees federal, state and county benefits and advocacy for Manatee County’s 50,000 Veterans and their families.
“I am thrilled to have Lee serving in this capacity,” said Dr. Scott Hopes.
The father of two – and grandfather of three – resides in the Bradenton Riverwalk district, where he enjoys fishing, cooking, and traveling. Mr. Washington is the current President of the County Veteran Service Officers Association of Florida, a Bradenton Kiwanian, Manatee County’s Employee of the Year 2013, a graduate of Leadership Manatee and an advisor to the Manatee County Veterans Council.