New Canaan Appoints New Interim Parks, Recreation Director

NEW CANAAN, CT — The Board of Selectmen appointed John Howe as the town's new Interim Parks and Recreation Director during a meeting Tuesday.

Howe will step into the position following the death of Steve Benko last month after a short battle with cancer. Benko served as New Canaan's recreation director for 50 years prior to his passing on Feb. 11.

According to Cheryl Jones, the town's director of human resources, Howe has worked for the town for close to 24 years and is one of many employees who worked closely with Benko.

"What we are trying to do is to fill Steve Benko's shoes," Jones said during the meeting, "which, as everyone knows, is not going to be an easy task."

Jones said upon becoming the interim director, Howe will research the department and come up with suggestions and recommendations.

First Selectman Kevin Moynihan and Selectman Kathleen Corbet both thanked Howe for his willingness to step up to the position following the loss of Benko.

"I had my discussion with John," Moynihan said, "and I'm very happy that he's willing to be interim director."

Corbet also clarified with Jones that Howe officially serves as the parks superintendent, and the interim job is a new position that will combine some responsibilities for both parks and recreation.

"There are big shoes, obviously, to fill," Corbet said, "but I trust that you have your own big shoes and we'll make a very important difference, so thank you for doing so."

See also: Town Pool To Be Renamed In Honor Of 'Mr. New Canaan' Steve Benko

Corbet and Moynihan both voted in favor of Howe's appointment. Selectman Nick Williams was absent from Tuesday's meeting.

Howe told board members he was excited to step into this new role.

"I think it will be a good change for the town having one voice coming out of both parks and recreation," Howe said. "A big challenge, but I'm looking forward to it."