About Me

My name is Richard Redding. I am a candidate for Sarasota County Commissioner District One. I have lived in Sarasota for over 35 years, attended the Sarasota County Public School System. In essence, I am a product of Sarasota. Sarasota is where I met my wife of 18 years, Naomi , at Sarasota High School, all three of my children were born in Sarasota and we have found this place to be a wonderful place to raise our children. It is my desire to see Sarasota as a model place for economic development and a haven for all generations to enjoy the riches that our diverse county has to offer.

In the wake of budget cuts and difficult economic times for many, Sarasota County, will need continued strong leadership that will seek to guide our communities through active STEWARDSHIP, with INTEGRITY and PROGRESSIVENESS. Sarasota is diverse in its economy, its citizens and in our communities. Together with trustworthy leadership, we will make the DIFFERENCE, that will boldly provide economic opportunities, safe environments, fiscal management and resource development that all citizens can have opportunities to prosper and enjoy their enriched lives here in Sarasota County (from the Airport to North Port).

I believe in being actively engaged with people. This is because my Faith has made me strong, my Family has been by my side and Public Service, as long as I can remember has been intertwined in my life. My life in social services has allowed me to work with a variety of people across this county, understand what it takes to provide quality services for greater quality of life, forge relationships with organizations and businesses, and have a pulse of what it takes to bridge neighborhoods and business communities’ interest. Together, let us protect what is most valuable to us and preserve our future.

Personal

  • 41 years old
  • Lifetime resident of Sarasota
  • Married 18 years – Naomi Redding
  • Children 3
    • Ryen-Allen - University of Miami
    • Katrina SHS c/o 2008 will be attending MCC
    • Marques – Sarasota High School

Education

  • Sarasota High School C/O 1985
  • Florida Agricultural & Mechanical University
    B.S. Political Science
    Certificate in Human Resources
    1990

Employment

  • Children First Inc. since 2001
    Quality Assurance Manager


Appointments and Accomplishments

  • Licensed Minister
  • Head Start Policy Council
  • Top 25 Finalist for Head Start Fellowship Program – Washington D.C - 2004
  • Former Vice-Chair Housing Authority Board of Directors
  • Former Board of Directors Sarasota Newtown Little League
  • Sarasota County Surtax Advisory Task Force - 2007
  • 1st Vice-president/Executive Committee of the Sarasota Branch of the NAACP
  • SCOPE - Grassroots Leadership Initiative Mentor
  • Neighborhoods Action Committee (New Beginning for Newtown)
  • Sarasota County Neighborhood Initiative - 2003