As the busy summer season nears, Westport’s Parks & Recreation Department is searching for a new director.
Jennifer has resigned, effective May 8. She will assume a new position, as director of the Darien Parks & Recreation Department.
Deputy director Rick Giunta will take over on an interim basis, until a permanent director is named.
Jennifer Fava
Fava began her Westport career on September 1, 2015. The University of Massachusetts graduate’s previous position had been in North Hempstead, Long Island.
She told “06880” then that her background there — including managing golf courses, marinas and beaches — would be very helpful here.
This afternoon, Fava told “06880” that, among other accomplishments in Westport, she is particularly proud of the South Beach restroom project, the redevelopment of Riverside Park, and re-turfing of athletic fields.
Parks & Rec is in the initial stages of a 10-year capital improvement project for Longshore Club park. “I hope people keep moving it forward,” she said.
Fava added, “It’s been a good ride. Darien is an exciting opportunity.”
She thanked “all the people I’ve worked with in Westport: elected officials, town committees, the Parks & Rec Commission and volunteers.”
Fava’s tenure involved several controversies, including awarding the Compo Beach concession contract to Hook’d; the possible relocation of the Westport Community Gardens, and concerns about maintenance of the town’s grass fields.