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As Kingston Springs approaches its elections on Nov. 5, Vice Mayor Glenn Remick is preparing to step down from his position on the board after more than a decade. Serving as city commissioner since 2012 and vice mayor since 2020, Remick reflected on his journey and unwavering commitment to the community in his past three terms.
"My journey in community service began during the 2010 flood," Remick recalled. "I fell in with so many other community volunteers cleaning up, gutting houses, and hauling trash. That experience ignited my passion for helping Kingston Springs." He went on to participate in the Kingston Springs Elementary School rebuild and months of river cleanups, solidifying his commitment to the town.
Remick credited fellow community members for encouraging him to run for a city commissioner seat twelve years ago, but ultimately showed the most gratitude for those that came before him.
"I am proud of how Tony Gross, Bob Stohler, and I transitioned and learned from the elders before us,” Remick said. “I am honored to have worked with Tony Campbell, Gary Corlew, Laurie Cooper, and Debbie Finch, all of whom had over 20 years in office before we were elected. They are the ones who have truly made Kingston Springs what it is today."
He takes pride in continuing the legacy of those who served before him. "We focused on carrying forth their ideals, visions, and financial responsibility,” he said, adding, “I feel my greatest accomplishment is hiring our city manager, John Lawless. Having great ideas means nothing without great management."
Reflecting on the city’s achievements, Remick listed significant projects: "Tony, Bob, and I were first elected 12 years ago. Our first accomplishment was legalizing chickens and developing the disc golf course. Since then, we've created many projects like the dog park, [farmer’s] market day, Dinner on Main … and sidewalks, sidewalks, sidewalks."
When asked how he views the current state of Kingston Springs compared to when he first took office over a decade ago, Remick said “our small town … is still the same small town.”
“We continue to be safe with increased public safety officers, license plate readers, a new ambulance department, and a new fire truck. We also have a stronger and incredible Public Works Department,” he continued, adding, “Our parks are as popular as ever, hosting numerous family-focused events. The town’s staff are amazing and a true asset.”
“With their dedication and commitment, you will see all hands on deck … to help create and support events like the Christmas Lights Parade,” he said.
As he looks to the future, Remick offers advice to the town’s three new officials: "You must listen to the people and then act on what is best for the whole town. Do the research, ask for advice from those before you, who work with you and live in the community … Do not assume you know it all."
With both Mayor Tony Gross and Vice Mayor Remick stepping down from their leadership roles next month, the Kingston Springs Board of Commissioners will be required to appoint new heads of the town. The public does not vote for mayor and vice mayor in Kingston Springs. Remick told the Gazette that he fully endorses Commissioner Todd Verhoeven – who has served on the board since 2022 – for the open mayor position.
After 22 years in Kingston Springs, Remick emphasized his commitment to the town. "It will always be the hometown for my two boys, Liam and Brodi,” he said.
Now that he’s leaving local government, Remick said he plans to continue serving on the Board of the Friends of Harpeth River State Park, expressing excitement for the developments happening there.
"I love so much about our town," he said. “We really take care of each other when in need. Kingston Springs is all about the people.”
“We have some amazing history and places but it’s the generations of people who have been here and have done the work that make it special,” Remick said. “I would hope, with so many new people living in Kingston Springs, that they would take a moment and see what needs to be done and step up and volunteer and keep the spirit of our community alive, because it takes a village.”