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Labor Endorsement: Katherlyn Geter for County Commission District 5

Patrick Cate
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Sisters, Brothers, and Delegates,

 

Following discussion at our March delegate meeting, the officers of the Chattanooga Area Central Labor Council have voted to make official our endorsement of Katherlyn Geter for Hamilton County Commission, District 5.

After meeting with and interviewing Ms. Geter, we are confident she will be a strong, independent ally for working people on the County Commission. She brings both experience and a clear commitment to the communities most impacted by economic development decisions.

Katherlyn Geter previously served on the County Commission beginning in 2019, stepping away temporarily for personal reasons. She currently works at the Enterprise Center, where she is directly engaged in advancing equitable economic development, digital access, and opportunity for underserved communities across Chattanooga. Combined with her work as a PhD-trained social worker, she brings both policy experience and on-the-ground insight into the real conditions working people face.

Her campaign emphasizes responsible and transparent development, expanded access to good jobs, infrastructure investment, and stronger community voice in decision-making—priorities that align closely with the needs of working families in District 5.

She also comes from a union family, with deep ties to the labor movement. Notably, her cousin, Carla Leslie, serves as President of USW Local 15120. This background reflects a clear set of values—respect for workers, belief in collective power, and a commitment to ensuring development benefits the people who live and work here.

This election comes at a pivotal time for our movement. With our ongoing job study work and the growing need for stronger public oversight of industrial development, we have an opportunity to begin building the political foundation necessary for long-term goals like binding Community Benefits Agreements. Having allies on the County Commission will be essential to that effort.

The Democratic primary will be held on May 5th, and we are calling on all affiliates and delegates to support her campaign in the weeks ahead.

There are immediate opportunities to get involved. If you are interested in phonebanking or doorknocking, call Patrick at 423 244 1358

Canvassing Opportunities this weekend

Greater Second Missionary Baptist Church 810 Shallowford Road, Chattanooga, TN 37411

Saturday at 1PM, Sunday at 10AM

Donate Directly:

We encourage you to:

  • Share this endorsement with your members
  • Volunteer with the campaign
  • Turn out voters in District 5
  • Help amplify the importance of this race

Together, we can help elect a candidate who will stand with labor and strengthen our ability to fight for working people across the region.

Solidarity,

CALC