Westport Human Services Director Barbara Butler to Retire

WESTPORT, CT - Barbara Butler, Westport's Human Services director since 1989, will retire at the end of June, she and First Selectman Jim Marpe announced Tuesday.

In the role, Butler has been responsible for community needs assessment, planning and resource development, coordination with community agencies providing human services, and special projects. Additionally, in her capacity as Human Services director she is also a member of the Town’s Emergency Management Team.

“It is with regret that I accept Barbara’s retirement letter," said Marpe in a statement. "Throughout the years, the Town of Westport, its residents and particularly those in need, have been the recipients of Barbara’s care and commitment to her chosen profession. Barbara’s compassion, coupled with her calm demeanor, has been a source of comfort during difficult times. The myriad of programs offered to residents and non-residents alike, benefitting the youngest to oldest citizens in our community and beyond, have been highly successful due to her expertise and involvement. She will be sorely missed, and I genuinely wish her only the best as she enters this new, exciting chapter in her life.”

Added Butler, “I am so proud of this Department and the work that it does, and the support it has received over the years from the Town, its boards and commissions, and Westport residents. None of that could happen without the Department’s outstanding professional staff and the many volunteers who grace us with their talent and commitment. I leave with confidence that they will all continue to serve the community as capably and generously as they always have.”

Mr. Marpe continued, “To insure the seamless and professional transition necessary for both the Human Services Department and the recipients of its services, I am pleased to announce that Assistant Human Services Director Sarah Heath will be appointed Director effective July 1. I am confident that Sarah will assume the role with the same passion and commitment as Barbara Butler.”

Heath grew up in Westport and graduated from Staples High School, according town officials. She has a Bachelor’s degree in English from NYU, a Master’s degree in Recreation Administration and Management from Southern Connecticut State University and a Master’s degree in Community Counseling from Fairfield University. Additionally, she has worked for the Department of Human Services for over eight years and resides in Fairfield, CT with her two children.

“After 30 years, Barbara leaves a legacy that anyone would be proud of," said Heath. "As the Assistant Director, it has been an absolute pleasure to work with Barbara in many capacities. I am both excited and honored to be the new Director of Human Services.”

Marpe and Heath elected to promote current Outreach Counselor and Social Worker Elaine Daignault to the position of Assistant Human Services Director.

Added Marpe, “I am delighted that our Human Services Department has developed such a deep bench of experience and leadership that allows us to promote from within. Elaine’s skills will provide an excellent complement to Sarah’s leadership role.”