Parks and Rec Commission Chair Retires

After five years as chair of the Parks and Recreation Commission, Richard A. Kestenbaum has retired the post.

First Selectman Gordon F. Joseloff presented Kestenbaum with a certificate of appreciation on his retirement Monday night.

"Under Dick Kestenbaum's leadership, we have seen our parks, beaches, and recreation facilities get even better, no easy task in these difficult times," Joseloff said in a news release Tuesday. "His steady hand at the helm has calmed the waters of many storms, and he has done it all with a smile and sense of humor."

Joseloff said it was on Kestenbaum's watch that the renovation to the Longshore golf course was completed, the Sherwood Mill Pond Preservation Committee successfully installed a new park, the effort to bring lights to athletic fields made progress, and the Parks and Recreation Department automated many of its functions.

"We are deeply grateful for his service and dedication to Westport," Joseloff added.