GOSHEN, Ind. – Parks and Recreation Superintendent Sheri Howland has announced her retirement after working 15 years for the City of Goshen.

Howland was appointed Superintendent of the Goshen Parks Department in 2001. Her last day working for the City is Nov. 30.

During her 15 years with the City of Goshen, Howland helped work on projects critical to the quality of place in the City, including the acquisition of Fidler Pond, the design of Kauffman Park and the expansion of Goshen’s trail system.

“I feel really good about the team I’m leaving it with, and of the administration that really supports quality of place and realizes the impact of a great Parks Department on a vibrant community.”

Mayor Jeremy Stutsman said he is grateful for the work Howland put in maintaining and expanding the City’s Parks Department.

“I want to thank Sheri for the time she committed to improving our City Parks,” he said. “Because of her hard work, our city’s quality of life has improved significantly. She will be missed.”

Tanya Heyde, Recreation Supervisor for the Parks Department, will be appointed as the new Superintendent.

Bringing with her six years of experience in parks and recreation, Heyde began working for the City of Goshen in 2006 as Recreation Coordinator, overseeing various programs and events. Many have been developed or expanded during Heyde’s time in Goshen, including the Rock the Quarry Triathlon, the Kids’ and Teens’ Triathlon and the Discovery Day Camp.

“I look forward to serving under Mayor Jeremy Stutsman while keeping forefront a vision of a healthy and vibrant community,” she said.

Mayor Stutsman said he chose to appoint Heyde to the position because of her experience and dedication to serving the community.

“Tanya has demonstrated a passion for enhancing the quality of life of our City,” he said. “I know she will do a great job as the next Parks and Recreation Superintendent.”