LOYAL. LOCAL. COMPLETE.
After 34 years, Chris Redman’s time with the City of Paris came to an end when he retired at the end of May. Redman started in maintenance, working his way up diligently until he took on the role of Superintendent of Streets and Alleys eleven years ago.
“I had actually planned that from the day I started,” Redman shared.
During those eleven years, Redman worked on a little bit of everything.
“We never knew what we were getting into every day,” he said with a laugh. “We just tried to help everybody and did our best.”
From helping with the parks and parades to Lion’s Club events and Faith in Action days, Redman and his team have touched almost every community event in Paris during his tenure. Redman shared that Christmas in the Park is one of his favorites every year.
“I love to see the kids enjoy it,” he said.
Beyond the hands-on work, Redman was also instrumental in connecting everyone to resources when they tried to get something off the ground. In his time with the Paris Park Board, he took on that role diligently to ensure that as many of their plans could come to fruition as possible.
“Chris’ hard work helped create and maintain spaces where families gathered, children played and the community grew stronger,” Redman’s daughter, Casey, shared. “While many people enjoyed the parks, few saw the dedication, early mornings, non-stop phone calls and pride he brought to the work every day. That pride shows in the legacy he leaves behind.”
“The Park Board is a pretty good bunch,” Redman said. “They want to do the best for the community, and their only limit really is money.”
Redman is succeeded by his long-time assistant, Rick Scott, who Redman believes will excel in carrying on the work.
Redman also had something to say directly to the Paris community.
“I loved the job, and I liked dealing with the people. Thank you all.”