Member of Public Services Department announces retirement | Community Spirit

FLORENCE, KY (FOX19) - After 20 years of service, Florence Public Services Director Bob Townsend will be retiring from the Public Services Department effective August 1, 2013. 

He has served as Public Services Director for the past 14 years while previously serving as Public Services Superintendent and Public Services Supervisor.  In April, 1993, Mr. Townsend was hired as a part-time co-op in the department before deciding to make the public works industry his full-time career.

During Mr. Townsend’s tenure as Director, the services provided to the public by the department expanded greatly.  The Florence Water and Sewer Commission was dissolved as an independent body and water and sewer services were consolidated into the Public Services Department.  Responsibility for parks and recreation services were also consolidated into the department as well.  Through Mr. Townsend’s direction, the department continuously worked to improve efficiencies while providing a high level of customer service.

Mr. Townsend indicated “It has been a privilege to work for the City.  I would like to thank the Mayor, council and everyone I worked with for making this a very enjoyable and rewarding career and I look forward to starting the next chapter of my life.”

Mayor Whalen commented, “Bob has been a great asset to the city.  He has shared the vision of building a city of first class amenities, and taken on every challenge and project he has been given.  Florence is a better place because of his dedication and leadership and he will leave big shoes to fill.  I wish he and his wife Karen a long and happy retirement and know that they will always have a place for Florence in their hearts”.