BY JIMMY LAWTONNorth Country This Week

CANTON — The Canton Recreation Committee has brought in temporary help as the town searches for a new recreation director.

Recreation Committee Chair Randy Brown told the Canton Town Board that Larry Olmsted started Monday and will help the department through the upcoming ice season.

Olmsted is a retired DPW employee who worked many years in the recreation department.

The move follows the recent resignations of Recreation Director Meghan Richardson and Ryan Hughes.

Brown said the departures left the department without anyone experienced in making ice or operating a Zamboni ahead of the new ice season.

Olmsted will train staff and is expected to remain through the ice season. He will also help with the transition after a new recreation director is hired, Brown said.

The town has received eight applications for the recreation director position, up from four previously reported. The application deadline is Sept. 14.

Councilor John Taillon said he spoke with Olmsted.

Brown said he very is willing to help the department during the transition.

Richardson’s resignation took effect Sept. 4.

 "I am grateful to have served my community in this capacity for the last five years. It has been an uphill battle the entire time, but the satisfaction of serving my neighbors made every step worth it,” Richardson said in her announcement. 

Canton is still accepting submissions until Monday.

The position will manage daily facility operations, organize programs and events, supervise and train employees and volunteers, oversee health and safety requirements, manage the recreation budget and work with community organizations and government agencies.

Applicants must have either a bachelor’s degree plus one year of relevant experience, an associate’s degree plus three years of experience, or a high school diploma/equivalent plus five years of relevant experience. Each option requires at least one year of supervisory experience.

The position pays $62,000 to $66,000 annually and includes health, dental and vision insurance, retirement options, paid time off and holidays. It is part of the HELP Program and does not currently require an examination.

Applications are due by 4 p.m. Sept. 14, 2026.

Applicants should submit a resume and cover letter by email to Megan Mousaw at mmousaw@cantonny.gov.