Former Sen. Lee joins lobbying firm

 RALEIGH -- New Hanover County's former senator in the N.C. General Assembly is joining a lobbying firm that represents clients such as Reynolds American, Pepsi and Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina.

Michael Lee is teaming up with former Raleigh mayor and lobbyist Tom Fetzer of Fetzer Strategic Partners. The pair's new lobbying firm will be called Fetzer Lee, and operate out of Raleigh.

According to a news release, Lee will maintain his Wilmington law firm, which specializes in real estate law.

"Lee will serve in a strictly consulting role until July 1," the release states. "State law requires former legislators to wait at least six months after leaving office before lobbying."

Lee, a Republican, served in the N.C. Senate from 2014 until losing a 2018 reelection bid to Democrat Sen. Harper Peterson. While in the senate, Lee chaired the Education Committee, the Appropriations Subcommittee on Education and the Legislative Ethics Committee.

Lee also has served as chairman of the N.C. Ports Authority and as a member of the N.C. Board of Transportation.

“I am excited to be joining my friend Tom,” the release quoted Lee. “I look forward to working with him and our clients in developing winning strategies for policy advancement and economic development.”

Fetzer, himself a Wilmington resident, has worked as a lobbyist for nearly a decade, and is a member of the University of North Carolina system’s Board of Governors. He also served as state Republican Party Chairman in 2010.

The release states that Fetzer Lee will specialize in government relations, public affairs, media relations and economic development. The firm will be based at 210 N. Person Street in Raleigh.

“I’m delighted to have Michael join the firm,” the release quoted Fetzer. “He has a unique understanding of public policy, especially in education, health care and transportation.”

Reporter Cammie Bellamy can be reached at Cammie.Bellamy@StarNewsOnline.com.