City of Richland Welcomes New Parks and Public Facilities Director

Christopher Waite

The City of Richland proudly announces the appointment of Chris Waite as their new Parks and Public Facilities Director. With a renowned 19-year career in parks and recreation, Waite brings a wealth of experience and a passion for community to this pivotal role.

Waite is recognized as a motivated and focused project administrator who thrives on the creative process and excels in team collaboration. His career highlights include serving as Parks and Recreation Director for the City of Umatilla, Oregon, where he managed three divisions, oversaw department budgets, and led full-time and seasonal staff. He also served as Cemetery/Parks Supervisor for Billings Parks and Recreation, overseeing cemetery operations and staff while developing division policies and fee structures. Additionally, Waite excelled as a Volunteer Coordinator for Billings Parks and Recreation, spearheading a successful volunteer and community outreach program.

Waite holds a Master of Public Administration from the University of Montana and a Bachelor of Fine Art from Brigham Young University-Idaho. He is a Certified Parks and Recreation Executive, Certified Playground Safety Inspector, and is affiliated with the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA). 

“We are pleased to welcome Chris Waite to our Executive Leadership team,” states Deputy City Manager, Joe Schiessl. “I am confident his experience in recreation along with his commitment to establishing partnerships, promoting volunteerism, and engaging our community is the right fit for Richland”.

In his new role as Parks and Public Facilities Director for the City of Richland, Waite will lead efforts to enhance the city's parks, recreational facilities, and public spaces, fostering community engagement and quality of life for residents.

Waite begins his new role on Monday, April 29, 2024. 

For more information regarding Richland’s parks and public facilities, visit www.richlandparksandrec.com.

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