After 41 years with Sarnia Parks and Recreation Department, Rob Harwood has announced plans to retire.
Harwood worked his way up through the department after he was hired in 1979, and was promoted to director in 2016.
"I was hired and first working in the arenas in the wintertime and parks in the summertime and as I carried on in my career, I was constantly taking courses through the University of Guelph and others -- different industry certifications and things -- with the anticipation that at someday I'd like to take the director's position," said Harwood.
Harwood played a key role in the emergency management team, as a member of the primary control group for over 30 years.
"Things have changed a lot in parks and rec over the years and they're about to change even more. The pandemic has been a real challenge and where we have spent so much of our time trying to bring people together, to congregate in spaces, now we're being told that we can't do that. So, I think the face of recreation's going to change a little bit, but it's still a highly valued asset in the community."
There is no park, open space, recreational program or community event he hasn't devoted time to.
"I'm just happy to have met great people and worked with good team players along the way. It's been a really rewarding career. I'll still probably stay active in the community, I've lived here all my life and will continue to."
Harwood said he's looking forward to spending more time with friends and family, especially his two year old granddaughter.
His last day is July 16.
