Town Manager Corrigan to Propose Expansion of Programs and Services in Departmental Reorganization
Proposal adds resources and investment to recreation, senior, and social services under one united department
EAST GREENWICH, RI— Town Manager Gayle Corrigan on Monday will propose to the Town Council an expansion of recreation, community, and senior services in a reorganization plan that adds greater investment and resources to programs that improve the quality of life for all East Greenwich residents.
Under the proposed model, the Parks and Recreation Department and Human and Senior Services Department will be combined at the director level to create a unified Community Services and Parks Department. The Town’s Substance Abuse Prevention Program will also function under the new department to share resources, foster innovation, and coordinate program space.
The reorganization creates mid-level positions to expand the suite of services offered to East Greenwich residents of all ages and needs. These positions serve three distinct areas—recreation programs, senior services, and social services—with a focus on quality programming and education, wraparound services, and robust outreach. The reorganization preserves the employment of all current staff members in each department. The consolidated model is based on best practices and builds upon success of other local communities, such as South Kingstown and Narragansett, RI.
“This model furthers our efforts to make a meaningful investment and impact in the quality of life of every East Greenwich resident,” said Corrigan. “We have great staff and programs in place, and additional resources will allow the Town to reach and serve more populations by fostering collaboration and innovation under one united department with a focus on wraparound services, programs and support.”
Town Manager Corrigan will also propose to the Town Council the appointment of the Town’s current director of parks and recreation, Cathy Bradley, to serve as director of community services and parks. An East Greenwich native, Director Bradley has served the East Greenwich community in a director capacity for over 30 years and has a successful track record in managing programs, services, facilities, and staff.
“I’m excited to see the Town pursue a holistic and coordinated approach to delivering services and programs,” said Bradley. “Under one department, we can work more closely together to provide the best available services to East Greenwich residents. By bringing together our knowledge, expertise and resources, we can strengthen our services, collaborate to offer intergenerational programming, and expand our reach.”
“This is a great initiative that will create a unique umbrella for children, individuals and families,” said East Greenwich substance abuse director Bob Houghtaling. “From my perspective, substance abuse does not occur in a vacuum and this plan puts into place much of what I have been trying to achieve for many years. A community-based approach towards mental health and substance-related concerns has proven to be the most effective means for mitigating some of our toughest challenges. This collaboration will not only enhance services, but also embraces and broadens the entire spectrum of services we’re able to provide.”
The Town Manager’s proposal requires approval from the East Greenwich Town Council and will be considered in open session on Monday, March 12, 2018 at the 7:00 pm Town Council Meeting.
# # #