Palo Alto, CA -- Long-time Community Services Director Paul Thiltgen has announced his retirement, effective December 31, 2003. To fill the position, City Manager Frank Benest appointed Richard James, Deputy Director of Community Services.

Thiltgen has served as Community Services Director for 22 years. Under his leadership, the department completed many improvements and innovations, including the renovation of all urban parks, the creation of Johnson Park, the creation of the Family Resources program, the development of the Cubberley Community Center, the addition of the Children's Theatre Wing, and the Library Master Plan, to name a few. Thiltgen considers his proudest accomplishment to be the development of a talented and dedicated staff. He served as President of the California Parks and Recreation Society in 1980-81.

Frank Benest praised Thiltgen's accomplishments. "I'm very grateful to Paul for strengthening Community Services and moving the department into becoming a strong, service oriented group. I know that residents who have enjoyed the many benefits of the department will join me in wishing Paul well in his retirement," said Benest.

Richard James has been with the City since 1979, starting as a theatre supervisor at Lucie Stern. He advanced in responsibilities to be the department administrator, and then Deputy Director, a position that he has held for the past three years. James will officially take over his new responsibilities on January 1, 2004. James played an important role in the city's infrastructure renovations over the past several years, taking the lead in upgrading various community facilities.

"Richard has been with the City for over 25 years and if anyone can step into Paul's position seamlessly, it's Richard. He knows the community and the department," said Benest.

As part of the city's program to strengthen the bottom line, the position of Deputy Director will be eliminated and those duties will be apportioned to other senior staff.

"Paul has done a great job in grooming Richard to be Director. We are fortunate here in the City to have such talented people to count on in the years ahead," said Benest.

###