Even though the Village of Richton Park has a new manager, residents and business owners should not expect or look for sweeping changes in the community.
De Carlon Seewood, who assumed the manager’s duties four months ago, described the village of 12,500 residents as “a community that is built on the cusp of having greatness occur.”
And Seewood’s strtegy is to mesh his vision with existing plans.
He said past and current village officials have done an excellent of identifying how Richton Park should emerge in the coming decades.
The Kansas City native explained he has a wealth of plans from which to choose. “There is a plan that talks about the town center, and there is a plan that talks about residential growth,” he noted.
According to Seewood, planning is an ongoing process. He explained that while the country and region is in an economic downturn, it’s time to put more plans in place. “You say where do we want to be and you start putting things in place to help you get there.”
He said that economic development will be a planning priority. Seewood outlined a concept for the Metra station lot at Sauk Trail near Governors’ Highway. He noted the large parcel is ideal for several ground level transit related businesses, along with residential units on the upper floors.
Seewood explained the size of such a project would mean relying on several developers to complete it, but the planning can begin immediately. Ultimately, it will take 10-15 years to complete he estimated.
Another project is imminent. Before winter, Richton Park residents will be able to use a new multi-purpose community center. Seewood is quick to point out he can’t take credit for the14, 000-square-foot facility that he envisions being a haven for residents – young and old.
Before taking the Richton Park job, Seewood worked in the manager’s office in Berkeley, Mo. He said that his biggest adjustment is becoming familiar with the differences in Missouri and Illinois laws. He added “after that city management is city management.”
Seewood noted that the excitement of the coming to Richton Park started when he got here and hasn’t waned
The 37-year-old Rockhurst University graduate who also holds a master's degree in public administration from the University of Missouri-Columbia, added that his career has allowed him to work in all facets of municipal government, and he’s come to the conclusion “There is not a part of local government that I don’t like.
“By working in municipal government, you have more of an impact on people’s day-to-day lives than any other level of government”
Richton Park Community Center
A Richton Park Community Center is expected to be open Nov. 1, 2010.
The Center will be 14,000 square feet and include:
A full size gymnasium
Multi-use room for dances, classes and special events
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Salvation's Belle
Salvation's Belle is the tenth of south suburban author Mary T. Wiley's Christian-centered novels. Last year, we graced readers with Tears Amdist My Joy
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