Today we’d like to introduce you to Walter Lanier.
Walter, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I began my journey in community involvement a little over 10 years ago. I began to notice a rise in crime and poverty in my community. That is when Ken Swilling and I formed Homeland Park Community Watch.
Once formed we recruited others to form an organization and worked to help reduce crime through neighborhood watch programs, charity for those in need, fight environmental issues in our area, beautification, parks and safe family friendly events for our community.
Later, I was asked to run for a seat as a Water Commissioner of our water district. I won thanks to the voters in my community who supported me. They gave me a mandate over the incumbents.
I have helped reform our water office to better serve the residents of Homeland Park alongside other Commissioners. I still hold this position where I preside as Chairman.
My most current endeavor is becoming a Board Member of Homeland Park Volunteer Fire Department. Our fite department runs more calls than any other in the county. I hope to bring my leadership skills and relationship with my community to assist our local fire department to better serve our area alongside other wonderful Board Members.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
No, it has not been a smooth road.
Personally, I battle with severe anxiety and debilitating Obsessive Compulsive Dosorder. It is a lifelong battle, but something I have had to endure to serve my community to the best of my ability. This often times makes things very difficult. I believe this quote to be true: “Courage is the ability to overcome fear in pursuit of a greater goal.” Even if those fears must be faced daily. I am very open about my battles with anxiety and OCD as it opens the door to help others who may be suffering in silence.
As it pertains to the community group, there were many challenges that we faced. Intimidation tactics from criminals was the most difficult. With the help of elected officials in our county, Things became much easier as they showed their support for our cause. This included assistance from Representatives and Senators as well.
The Water Department was a different beast. It was time for fresh ideas to get our water district up to date with new facilities, upgraded infrastructure, proper pay for employees, safe and efficient service to the residents and more. During my time, I pride myself on being one of the 5 Commissioners who appointed the first female General Manager of the District. A choice that has proven to exceed all of my expectations as she was chosen solely on her merit. I had received some criticism from some over that. It was a decision that I stand firmly on! I believe her leadership skills have proven her to be the best General Manager in the 70 plus year history of the District. She has done a fantastic job along with the board to bring this water district into the modern age.
The Fire Department has done so much right long before I got there. They are a great bunch of dedicated firemen and women. My role there will simply be to offer advice and assist in any way that I can.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I am most known for my work through the community group. Many accomplishments were made over the past 10 years. Many of which I am very proud of.
Being a part of getting a local park revitalized with new playground equipment, basketball court and other upgrades. This one I hold dearly.
The shutting down and clean up of a tire recycling facility that was threat to the health of our community.
Giving back to the community through events, Christmas for underprivileged children, benevolence for people in my community, community clean ups and many other things.
It is important to note that none of these things were accomplished by me alone. Only through the help of my community who stood hand in hand with me through all of these triumphs were these things accomplished. Many things that I am often championed for, I quickly dismiss. I have done nothing on my own, all credit goes to those who have worked alongside me. Without them, there would be no accomplishments.
Can you share something surprising about yourself?
I am an open book. I am a lover of old soul music such as Otis Redding.
I have a deep commitment to my community especially the elderly and the youth.
I have a deep love for my family and friends.
I don’t think there’s anything about me that would surprise anyone.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.homelandpark.org
