Chris Adams, local government chief behind Karratha’s transformation, resigns after 10 years in the role

The man who has been one of the driving forces behind Karratha’s transformation from a mining town into a thriving regional city is stepping down from his role as chief executive of the local government. Born and raised in Karratha, Chris Adams took over the role of chief executive for the then Shire of Roebourne in 2012 after previously working as the inaugural boss of Pilbara Cities. He also held chief executive positions at the Town of Port Hedland and the Shire of Wyndham. Mr Adams was heavily involved with the redevelopment of the Karratha city centre, the expansion of the Dampier and Wickham community hubs as well as the development of the Red Earth Arts Precinct. Speaking to the Pilbara News, Mr Adams said it had been an honour to be part of the projects and initiatives that had been achieved during his time. “I loved being CEO of my hometown,” he said. “I’ve loved seeing obviously the big mega projects come to fruition but I’m just as proud when I see the street sweepers out there cleaning the footpaths and the litter pickers out there picking up rubbish because every little bit is helping us become Australia’s most liveable regional city.” Looking back on the projects he has been involved in including the development of the Karratha Leisureplex and Red Earth Arts Precinct, Mr Adams said what made him proud was the City councillors and staff having the conviction to not only tackle big projects but maintain them. “We just don’t build things and let them die,” he said. “We’ve made our CBD as good as it is because we look after it. “It’s a real testament to the staff and there’s over 400 staff working for the organisation that probably don’t get enough credit for the work that they do. “There really is a great culture in the organisation that I’m really proud of.” Forever a Karratha local, Mr Adams said he planned on keeping his house and visiting the town as often as he could. “This has always been my home and will always be my home so while I’m leaving the City of Karratha employment I still intend to be coming back here regularly,” he said. “But I’ll miss the people. I’ll miss working with the council and miss working with the management team here which was by far the best place I’ve worked in my career.” Mayor Peter Long said Mr Adams’ passion for regional development had seen the transformation of the City of Karratha into a progressive and dynamic local government organisation. Mr Adams’ last day in the role will be August 26 before he begins a role as the chief executive of the Tamala Park Regional Council.