In an effort to improve efficiency, effectiveness, and overall operations, the Worcester County Commissioners this week voted to consolidate three standalone departments (Recreation and Parks, Tourism, and Economic Development) into a single department — the Worcester County Department of Recreation, Parks, Tourism, and Economic Development (RPTED).
“These are very important departments to our tax base, and this unification is exactly what is needed to move the County forward,” Commission President Joe Mitrecic said. “Like other jurisdictions that have a similar structure, this restructuring is expected to generate a synergy that cannot be duplicated in standalone departments.”
According to a press release:
Current Recreation and Parks Director Tom Perlozzo will lead the new department. The unified department will consist of three divisions, Recreation and Parks under the direction of Kelly Rados, Tourism under the direction of Lisa Challenger, and Economic Development under the direction of Kathryn Gordon.
Administration within the new department will operate like the Department of Public Works. The three division directors will report directly to Perlozzo. Perlozzo will report directly to the chief administrative officer, and he will provide periodic updates to the Commissioners with regard to ongoing and proposed projects and initiatives in each of the three divisions.
“During his time with the Town of Ocean City, Perlozzo successfully managed eight separate divisions (Recreation, Parks, Public Grounds, Golf Course, Beach Patrol, Special Events, Sponsorships and Outdoor Advertising) simultaneously,” Chief Administrative Officer Harold Higgins said. “His experience and connections will greatly benefit the three divisions and yield significant returns to the County.”
The consolidation will take effect December 30 and create an atmosphere in which the three divisions will work in concert with each other for the benefit of the citizens and visitors of Worcester County.
Visit the Worcester County website for more information.
