David Lee smiles as he talks about his long history as a doorman at 420 E. Ohio St. “I started here 22 years ago, in maintenance, and then took a position at the front desk. I’ve watched babies grow into young adults during my time here.”
David reveals that the keys to his success are simple: being a people person and treating residents well. He prides himself on knowing residents by name and solving problems.
“Folks referred to the building as 420 E. Ohio, and now we are known as ‘Renew Waterside’ and under new management,” David says.
Property manager Jason Nevelow joins the conversation and credits David with helping keep the building running smoothly.
“David helps manage the building. He’s like family,” Jason says. “He attends resident events and is a father figure to me.” Jason adds that during the pandemic, David was a key part of keeping the building operational.
David returns the praise, calling Jason “the best hands-on manager in all of my years here. We just mesh.”
A resident joins the group, bringing down holiday gifts for David, Jason and other members of the staff. David says the longevity of the staff is part of what makes the building feel like home.
Read more on Chicago Star:
“It’s a family here,” he said. “ My co-worker Joseph has been here 17 years, and Sal, part of the maintenance team, has been here for 14 years.”
Lifelong Chicagoan David describes himself as a devoted family man. “My wife, Kim, is my rock.” He’s the proud father of four and grandfather of five.
Outside of work, David enjoys gaming on both Xbox and PlayStation, collecting bow ties and sipping on good tequila. He is a loyal Pittsburgh Steelers fan and proudly displays a Steelers tattoo.
Renew Waterside, built in 1991, is located near Ohio Street Beach along Lake Michigan. The 263-unit apartment building includes amenities such as an indoor lap pool, fitness center, yoga room, office space and two outdoor decks.
David explains his role as a safety facilitator for the entire block. “I have a rapport with all of the door-people nearby.” He takes special care to ensure any misdelivered items land at the correct building.
In March, Renew Waterside will be undergoing some major renovations. “I’m here for everyone. We are a team; that’s how I look at it.” The residents and management at Renew Waterside are lucky to have David quarterbacking the team.
To nominate your favorite doorperson, Email [email protected] with their name and why they should be doorperson of the month. Winners will receive a $25 gift card to Mariano’s.
(0) comments
Welcome to the discussion.
Log In
Keep it Clean. Please avoid obscene, vulgar, lewd, racist or sexually-oriented language.
PLEASE TURN OFF YOUR CAPS LOCK.
Don't Threaten. Threats of harming another person will not be tolerated.
Be Truthful. Don't knowingly lie about anyone or anything.
Be Nice. No racism, sexism or any sort of -ism that is degrading to another person.
Be Proactive. Use the 'Report' link on each comment to let us know of abusive posts.
Share with Us. We'd love to hear eyewitness accounts, the history behind an article.