Carol Richardson recipient of Elaine Bisbee Award

Carol Richardson was honored March 25 with the 2013 Elaine Bisbee Award for her outstanding service to the City of Lewes.

Established in 2006 in the name of the former city manager, the award recognizes a city employee who goes above and beyond for Lewes. Elaine Bisbee worked for the city for 35 years, starting as a secretary. She retired in 2006 after serving 22 years as city manager.

Richardson, a four-year employee, works as the city's projects officer. She assists City Manager Paul Eckrich with capital improvement projects, heads the parks and recreation commission and handles events and recreational activities throughout Lewes.

“I don't think a lot of people understand or appreciate the detail that goes into that management,” said Mayor Jim Ford. “It is very demanding. Each event for that individual person or family is something very special to them, and [Carol] goes through each one individually and makes sure it's done well, appropriately and to city standards.”

Richardson said she only recently learned of the recognition.

“I was honored and appreciative,” she said. “I strive to work as a team with everybody.”

Ford said Richardson's can-do spirit is very welcome in city hall.

“Her attitude is always so positive,” he said. “You can't help but like her.”

Richardson is relatively new to the projects officer position. After working as a financial clerk for about three years, she transitioned into her new position when it became available. She said she didn't know what to expect right away.

“It's a full plate, but it's very rewarding,” she said. “I have a great group of volunteers, and the commissioners on parks and rec are fantastic people to work with.”

Richardson grew up in Wilmington and lived in Colorado for 10 years before moving back to Delaware. She fondly remembers Lewes and the Cape Region from her childhood.

“It's been neat to see that transition and transformation of the city and how it's growing,” she said. “And now it's great to be a part of that, to see that vitalization.”

Richardson is recently engaged to a man she has dated for nine years. She also has a 22-year-old son who attends the University of Delaware.