Politics & Government

Westwood Recreation Department Director Stepping Down

After two and a half years of service, David Burnes has resigned as the Recreation Director, but looks back at the accomplishments the department has made during his tenure.

For David Burnes, leaving his job as the director of the Westwood Recreation Department doesn’t mean putting the town and community in his rearview. After serving the town of Westwood for two and a half years, David Burnes, the head of the Westwood Recreation Department, is stepping down.

He has taken a job in “the private sector,” he said, “for a great opportunity.” Despite the new job, Burnes looked back at his tenure as the department head.

“I’m really satisfied with my experience in Westwood,” Burnes said. “It was a tremendous experience for me to be a part of a community that’s so supportive.”

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Burnes made sure to note it wasn’t just his work ethic that made the different in the department. He recognized a lot of the staff as well.

“The staff deserves a lot of credit. It’s all a collaboration, it was team oriented,” he said. “I had a great team of volunteers and staff. Morale is at an all-time high.”

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One of things he realized once coming to the job, is the importance of teamwork. “The school department plays a big role in what I do because we serve all the same kids,” he said. “I want to compliment John Antonucci, the superintendent of schools for a great partnership. It really made a difference, and I’d love to see that continue.”

In addition, Burnes said he’s also proud of the advent of Westwood Day. “By doing this community event, we brought the whole town together.” 

Burnes said the department loves coming into work everyday and serving the community, and that type of atmosphere was one he loved being a part of.

“One thing that I thought was important was letting my staff show their skills, letting them develop,” he said.

Burnes said after spending 14 years of his career in government, he’s excited for his new opportunity, but he’d never rule out going back later on down the road.

Burnes also said the department he’s leaving is a “tight ship. It’s organized, and one of the best recreation departments in the area. I’m sad to go, but it’s in great shape.”

 

 


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