At the annual conference for the Northeast Public Power Association (NEPPA), Peabody Lighting Commissioner Tom Paras received a special recognition award. He was one of five New England recipients to be recognized for advancing the interests of public power. He is also a 2014 recipient of the NEPPA Commissioner Service Award.
Paras is a longtime public servant born and raised in Peabody. He served in the United States Navy, completing two tours in Vietnam as a Seabee. When he was elected to the Peabody Municipal Lighting Commission (PMLC) in 2004, he followed in his father’s footsteps. James Paras was also a light commissioner. Tom Paras is the president of Paras Electric in Peabody.
Tom Paras is involved in many community organizations and enjoys giving his time. In 2017, he received the Harry Ankeles Community Service Award, which recognizes a Peabody Chamber of Commerce member who exemplifies the spirit of selfless dedication and leadership to Peabody.
Unable to attend the award presentation in Groton, Conn., Commissioner Paras was presented the award at the September PMLC meeting by Light Plant General Manager Joe Anastasi.
