STONE HARBOR – Four months after Councilman Victor Foschini tersely noted that Recreation Director Shannon MacPherson “is no longer with us,” the borough has chosen a popular figure as her replacement: Tourism director Jenny Olson will move to the full-time position.

The council had discussed reducing the recreation director position to something less than full time. The council also is seeking bids by an outside firm take over many of the duties of the tourism director, with special attention to the role of borough information officer.

All of that raised alarm for some residents, who used public comment periods at Borough Council meetings to voice their opposition.

Maintaining Olson’s connection to events and activities in the borough was a prime topic of public comment with respect to considering privatization of the tourism role. Preserving the commitment and experience of borough personnel for important roles in town was a frequent comment, with one resident, Geoff Woolery, stating it simply as “You cannot buy that.”

Olson was recommended for the position by Mayor Tim Carney. The resolution states that the recommendation has the support of the council’s Recreation Committee, chaired by Foschini. The resolution to hire Olson for the position was approved March 4.

Contact the reporter, Vince Conti, at vconti@cmcherald.com.