Oak Ridge honored as Free Medical Clinic 'Partner of the Year' after armory donation

Oak Ridge City Council accepted a Partner of the Year award from the Free Medical Clinic for the city’s role in enabling an expanded clinic facility.

Beth, who presented the award on behalf of the city, said the recognition "is for the free medical clinic partner of the year" and credited council decisions to donate the former armory so the clinic could "have a larger facility to serve more people." The proclamation noted the award honored the clinic’s work serving low‑income and uninsured residents and recognized the city’s partnership.

Council members framed the donation as a cost‑effective reuse of a facility transferred back to the city by the state. No formal vote was required beyond the presentation; the item was listed under proclamations. City staff referenced Mr. Edmonds, the clinic’s executive director, as a steward of the partnership but he was not present to accept the award.

The recognition follows the council decision to make the armory available to the clinic; staff said the arrangement was intended to increase access to care for residents who lack insurance or who are low income.