ADAMS TWP – Parks and recreation director Haley Zaliponi resigned at Monday’s board of supervisors meeting after six years with the township.

“Our wonderful parks and recs director has decided that she is going to move on to bigger and better things: being a mom,” said board of supervisors chairman Russell Ford. “I don’t think we have to say that you will be sorely missed.”

Zaliponi has directed the township’s parks and recreation since 2016. Her most recent event was the annual Winter Lights in the Park, which opened Friday, Dec. 9.

“It’s been a pleasure working with you,” said supervisor Darryl Brandon. “In my opinion, this park’s a gem. Thank you very much for what you’ve done.”

The supervisors praised Zaliponi’s role in the township and in their lives.

“I almost feel like you’re the daughter I never had, because I went to school with your mom and dad,” township manager Gary Peaco said. “You will be missed.”

Resident Tina Wilson also praised the resigning director.

“When I saw ‘resignation’ on (the agenda), I was hoping it wasn’t Haley,” Wilson said. “She’s been wonderful — she’s been wonderful for the residents here. She’s been so accepting of criticism, positive and negative. Thank you for all you have done.”

Zaliponi will be replaced by Brian Perry.

“We’re very, very happy to have Brian here,” said Ford. “Brian came highly recommended from Cranberry Township.”

Perry spent 11 years in Cranberry’s parks and recreation department.

“I did everything from summer camps, preschool facilities, oversaw all of our special events.” Perry said. “I’m from Cranberry, so I’m pretty familiar with this area. I was here last week for two events.”

Perry started with Adams Township on Dec. 1, working directly with Zaliponi; The board completed Zaliponi's resignation Monday evening.

“Motion to approve Haley’s resignation,” said Ford. “Opposed? Me.”

The room laughed.

“Motion carries,” Ford said.

Peaco explained that the emergency management coordinator will make regular reports to the board of supervisors.

“Something new is that the county wants the EMC, which is Scott Foreman, to periodically give reports,” Peaco said.

The emergency management coordinator directs emergency services during catastrophic events.

“It’s a go-between between the township and the public services,” Peaco said. “There’s a very detailed plan that’s put in place for all different types of emergencies — anything you can think of.”

The emergency management coordinator is scheduled to report on the second Monday of each month.

“I hope there’s nothing on that report each time,” Ford said.