WAUPUN — Waupun Recreation Director Rachel Kaminski will be leaving her position for a new opportunity this week after almost seven years.
Kaminski submitted her notice to the City earlier this month, stating that she would be taking a similar position in her hometown of Columbus, where she lives and her children go to school. City Administrator Kathy Schlieve announced this to the Senior Center members on September 16.
The Waupun Senior Center held a farewell party for Kaminski Tuesday afternoon, following an Oktoberfest themed event. Over 80 people attended, mostly seniors, volunteers, and City staff. Refreshments included cake and ice cream during the party.
“From where we started seven years ago to where we are today is just a night and day difference,” City Administrator Kathy Schlieve said during a brief speech at the beginning of the party. “Rachel has made a huge difference here and she will be deeply missed.”
The farewell party was followed by the monthly Mayoral Listening Session at the Senior Center, where Mayor Bishop spoke about various current events in the community. This included the creation of the Youth Advisory Council, the hiring of three new officers at the Police Department, and the e-bike ordinance. Police Chief Jeremy Rasch also spoke more in detail about the new staff and proposed ordinance changes.
After Rasch answered all questions from the crowd, Mayor Bishop spoke about Kaminski’s leaving. He said that he was a bit sad to see Rachel go, but that he had written a glowing letter of recommendation and he had later met with the Mayor of Columbus and spoke very highly of her.
Kaminski was then invited to briefly speak, where she thanked everyone for being part of the Community Center and Waupun Recreation Department.
“It’s been a very fun thing, I’ve enjoyed every minute of it,” Kaminski said in a statement after the meeting. “Being able to serve the community and provide recreation opportunities for all ages has been a pleasure. I have learned a lot and had a lot of fun, met a lot of nice people, and worked with some incredible staff.”
Kaminski’s last day as Waupun Recreation Director is Friday, October 2. She has served as Waupun’s Parks and Recreation Director since January 2018, just under 7 years. She worked on contract through YMCA for three years before becoming the official director, where she worked with the Senior Center, Park Program, and Aquatic Center.
A Recreation Director Transition Plan was presented at the Board of Park and Recreation Commission meeting Monday, September 28, including the job description for a part time Community Center Coordinator. This was followed by the Special Council meeting held Tuesday, September 29, where the City Council approved it.
The interim Community Center Coordinator will handle organizing events at the Community Center and Senior Center until a full time Recreation Department Director is selected. Finance Director Casey Langenfeld and City Administrator Kathy Schlieve will be working out of the Community Center office in the meantime to keep full-time staff presence there.
