Dave Frankel gave his usual monthly maintenance report to the Park Commission at Wednesday’s Park Commission meeting, but this time it was his last.
Frankel is retiring from his post as Piedmont’s Public Works Supervisor. He also leaves the employ of the City of Piedmont, which he’s been with for over 31 years. City leaders held a retirement party for him on September 25 at the Corporation Yard.
He described as “surreal” the feeling of his final Park Commission meeting, but also said it was nice that he and his wife Audrey were able recently to walk their dogs through Dracena Park and take the time to notice how wonderful it is without feeling compelled to nitpick on the problems.
“I still wrote a few things down, anyway,” said Frankel, acknowledging it may be hard to completely leave work behind.
After the meeting ended, Park Commissioner Brian Mahany gave Frankel a framed photograph of what Frankel called the “climbing oak tree” in Piedmont Park. Frankel was beaming.
“I love this tree,” he said, looking at the photo. “I’m a certified arborist, and I’m also a kid at heart.”
Reach Sam Richards at sam.richards4344@gmail.com
Congratulations, Dave. Truly, you were one of Piedmont’s finest and I’m certain you’ll be missed. Thanks for all the advice and care through the years; the warm words and the friendly smile. I wish you all the best in your retirement and hope you have fantastic adventures awaiting you (of the non-sewer variety). Julie Gardner
Dave Frankel is a true unsung Hero of Piedmont. His service has been invaluable.