Commissioner Richie vacationed and enjoyed family time in Highlands County with his four children and wife back in the 1960's. After buying a home in 1985 his plans were to enjoy beautiful Highlands County on a more permanent basis.

He is a Chartered Life underwriter and has run a succesful insurance services agency for over three decades. Commissioner Richie has made volunteering in Highlands County a priority.

As a volunteering citizen since 1987 here are some of his accomplishments:

Chairman Highlands County Homeowners Association Member Lake Placid Chamber of Commerce Member (LIMC) Lake Istokpoga Management Committee Member Local Mitigation Strategy/Working Group Chairman Highlands County Impact Fee Review Committee Member Veterans Council Highlands County Member Construction Licensing, Enforcement and Appeals Board Member Highlands County Water Advisory Committee Member Advisory Committee Kissimmee Basin Water Supply Plan Member Highlands County Fire Services Task Force Member Highlands County Republican Party Executive Committee Received Master Conservation Certification from Highlands County Soil and Water Conservation District President Sun-n-Lakes of Lake Placid Volunteer Fire District Highlands County Community Liaisons for Congressman Tim Mahoney Member Board of Directors Highlands County Lakes Association Member Highlands County Lakes Association, Tourist Tax Committee Member Tourist Develop Commission

He lives in Lake Placid with his wife Maurine and has 4 children and 8 grandchildren.