Sharon Rec Director Screening Board Created

Sharon's search for a new recreation director will include a five-member screening committee -- including retired longtime director Dave Clifton.

Selectmen established the committee Tuesday night as defined in Sharon's personnel bylaws.

Clifton will be one of the two at-large representatives on the committee, both appointed by selectmen. Town Administrator Benjamin Puritz and one representative each from the personnel board and the recreation advisory committee will round out the group.

about two weeks ago, ending just over four years in the post.

Selectmen Chairman William Heitin said Tuesday night that MacGowan "left to pursue other opportunities." MacGowan began his fifth year in Sharon in June, recreation advisory committee Chairman Gary Bluestein has said. MacGowan succeeded Marshall Bradshaw.

Selectman Walter "Joe" Roach said he spoke with Clifton about serving on the screening committee, and he "graciously accepted."

Selectmen also voted Tuesday night to appoint Assistant Recreation Director Amanda Deni as interim director from July 16 until Nov. 30.

The new director's start date will affect that timeframe.

Deni will receive "a slight bump in pay" as interim director, Heitin said.Roach asked that department heads help Deni, as she is handling both the director and assistant director responsibilities.

"She's a quick study," Puritz said.

"She's getting her bearings. The department is functioning well."

Also, selectmen interviewed Mitchell Blaustein for an interim seat on the recreation advisory committee.

Blaustein said he served as the school committee's liaison to the recreation board for 17 years before opting against seeking re-election to the school committee in May.

Heitin anticipated selectmen would vote at their next meeting unless another candidate emerges.