Family & Roots

Raised by a small-business owner and a semi-truck driver, Joshua Lee understands the value of hard work and community roots. Joshua and his wife are proud to raise their two children in Lakeville, where they built a multi-generational home to share with his parents. Joshua believes that a premier city should provide a caring home for residents at every stage of life.

 

On the weekends, you’ll find the Lee family enjoying Lakeville’s natural beauty—whether it’s the beach at Antlers Park, the fishing pier at Casperson Park, or the dog park at Ritter Farm Park. They are also fixtures at local traditions like Pan-O-Prog and the Taste of Lakeville.

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Community-First Leadership​

Joshua’s approach to governance is rooted in his professional background as the Director of Alumni Community and Belonging at St. Olaf College, where he specializes in building lasting relationships and managing complex community needs. He brings this same "servant leader" philosophy to his roles in Lakeville:

• Active Service: Member of the Lakeville City Council, Lakeville Police Reserves, Chamber of Commerce, and Lakeville Rotary.

• Fiscal Oversight: Serving on the Lakeville Fire Relief Board (ex officio) and as Chair of the Housing and Redevelopment Authority.

• Hands-on Engagement: From the STOP the Trafficking 5K to Neighborhood Chili Cook-offs and Earth Day Cleanups, Joshua is consistently on the ground with his neighbors.

Joshua has leaned into three core values for our city:

1. Belonging: Ensuring every resident, regardless of background, feels welcome as Lakeville grows in cultural richness.

2. Connectivity: Designing a city that is physically and socially linked through parks, trails, and shared spaces.

3. Safety & Well-being: Prioritizing the health and morale of our first responders and the security of our neighborhoods.

 

A Record of Results

Joshua has a proven record of thoughtful, strategic decision-making. His colleagues recognize him as a collaborator who listens deeply to differing perspectives to find common-ground solutions. Over his two terms, he has successfully advocated for:

• Sustainable Growth: Maintaining low tax rates while supporting record-breaking industrial and residential development.

• Public Safety Excellence: Increasing support for Fire Department infrastructure and investing in mental health support and training facilities for police personnel.

• Vibrant Recreation: Championing community investments such as the new splashpad, beach improvements, and the fine arts building.

• Economic Resilience: Providing critical relief to local businesses and nonprofits during the pandemic.

• Inclusive Conversations: Leading the Community Conversations on Race Working Group and creating space for youth and underrepresented groups to be heard at City Hall.

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