By ZEINAB NAJM
Sunday Times Newspapers
ALLEN PARK — Deputy Parks & Reaction Deputy Director Robert Fulton is now the new director of the department after he was appointed Aug. 23.
The recommendation was made by City Administrator Mark Kibby in an Aug. 18 letter. With the appointment, Fulton’s salary will be $73,500, retroactive to July 27.
Fulton will continue working for the city which he has done for nearly five years, including experience in the recreation field.
Former Director Patrick Hawkins was fired during a July 26 meeting. City Council and Mayor Gail McLeod unanimously voted to terminate Hawkins, Councilman Dennis Marcos was absent.
The move came following complaints and concerns from the community in addition to several programs, such as the Creative Characters program leaving the city.
“With the recent changes in the Parks & Recreation Department, Deputy Director Robert Fulton has done a fantastic job stepping into the leadership role and ensuring that there has been no interruption in the service that is provided by the department to the residents of Allen Park,” Kibby said.
“As we move forward, I have extreme confidence that Rob is the right person to help the city strengthen the relationships with our community partners and he will continue to be a valuable piece of our administrative team.”
(Zeinab Najm can be reached at [email protected].)