Hurricanes To COVID: Parsippany Director Retires After 19 Years

PARSIPPANY, NJ — Greg Schneider made sure things kept running smoothly during the coronavirus pandemic. Through the years, he took particular interest in the town's environmental efforts. After 19 years as the director of public works, the town wished Schneider a happy retirement.

Schneider has worked through hurricanes, blizzards, floods and even a pandemic. He oversaw the township bus program, assisting residents with essential transportation throughout the community.

At the height of the pandemic, the DPW encountered organizational challenges. But through Schneider's leadership, township services continued with minimal interruptions, according to officials.

"It could be argued that no municipal department impacts residents greater than the Department of Public Works," said Mayor Michael Soriano. "Snowplowing, storm debris, township buses, garbage and recycling, and so much more. Greg handled it all with knowledge and care, understanding that his leadership and decisions affect thousands of residents."

Over the past few years, Schneider's team focused on stormwater-management efforts to help protect township rivers and waterways from harsh chemicals and contaminants. He also expanded the capabilities in the recycling center to accept hard cover books, fluorescent lightbulbs and cooking oil from residents.

On his last day, Schneider took joy in looking forward to celebrating with family.

“I’ve been married to my beautiful wife for 50 years, but we couldn’t celebrate it the way we wanted to last year,” he said. “But we’re gonna make up for lost time in year number 51.”

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