RADNOR – To find its new public works director, Radnor officials didn’t have to look very far. Township officials say he’s been diligently working for in Radnor for a little over two decades.
At its most recent board meeting, the Radnor commissioners approved a motion naming Ricky Foster as the director of public works.
Foster began working for Radnor as a laborer in the spring of 2001 and over the next 20 years worked his way up the ranks to serve in almost every position available. Before accepting the Interim Public Works Director earlier this year, Foster was the Parks Department Supervisor, where he supervised, coordinated, and directed all park maintenance-related jobs and functions. Foster will be the first African-American director in Radnor’s 120-year history.
“I am thankful for the opportunity to have a job where I started as a laborer and was able to slowly move up within the organization. The township leadership believed in me as a leader, recognized I am dependable and stood by me during this learning process,” Foster said. “I feel this is a group win for Radnor. Thank you to the Board of Commissioners, Mr. [Bill] White, and all of the township staff for helping me in my professional growth and supporting me to reach the position of director.”
After a lengthy search for a new Public Works Director, Township Manager Bill White said the Radnor Township executive committee was very pleased to promote from within the organization for the director position and particularly for an employee with such long-standing service to the township.
“Of the qualified candidates we’ve met with over the last few months, Ricky rose to the top. Ricky approaches the job with a smile every day and it’s genuine,” said White. “Ricky’s promotion is not only the best choice for Radnor, but also a tremendous compliment to the work he does for Radnor and the way he conducts himself daily. Thank you to the board for confirming the appointment of Ricky Foster, Jr. as the next Radnor Public Works Director.”
With having worked in Radnor for over 20 years, White added that the township is happy to promote from within their own ranks.
“He’s someone who enjoys coming to work every day with the men and women who work throughout Radnor Township, but especially the folks that work down at the public works garage,” White said.
Radnor 7th Ward Commissioner Sean Farhy seconded Foster’s nomination for the position.
“You have done an amazing job as interim as well as through the four years that I have been here,” Farhy said.
In the end, Foster said he appreciated being part of Radnor’s history.
“Serving as Interim Public Works Director since Mr. [Michael] Simmons’ Spring 2021 retirement was an exciting opportunity for me, as was the interview process for the director position,” said Foster. “I am proud to be part of an inclusive community like Radnor and I’m humbled to be part of Township history.”
