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Personnel chief quits city post

Pinellas Park City Manager Mike Gustafson praised the departing Tom Owens, who had kind words in return.

By ANNE LINDBERG
Published May 22, 2005

PINELLAS PARK - Tom Owens, who has led the city's personnel department for almost six years, has resigned.

"When it's time to go you really don't need a reason, except my wife and I decided we wanted to move to Georgia," Owens said Thursday.

"There's no reason and I would be really disappointed if anyone were to interpret my decision as reflecting negatively on the city because there's nothing further from the truth. . . . I would not change a minute of my employment here. . . . These are fine, fine people," he added.

Owens notified City Manager Mike Gustafson last week that he intends to leave June 10.

"On leaving city employment I wish to thank you, members of City Council, and other city leaders for a rewarding professional experience and for the many courtesies you have extended to me over the years," Owens wrote in a four-paragraph letter.

"The leadership of this city is an example of government at its best and of a sincere desire to provide citizens a quality product at a reasonable cost."

Owens praised Gustafson for his "enlightened leadership." He also expressed his gratitude to other Pinellas Park employees and volunteers with whom he worked over the years.

"I have been proud to count myself among their number and to have been a part of an organization that is dedicated to serving the public good," Owens wrote. "I know the citizens of Pinellas Park appreciate all that these employees and volunteers do on their behalf."

Gustafson praised Owens, saying, "Tom has given his entire adult life to public service. He has been a tremendous asset to the city's management team. He has enriched our personal and professional lives and Pinellas Park residents are better for his service."

Owens, 56, was hired in August 1999 by then-City Manager Jerry Mudd. Owens had just retired as a colonel in the U.S. Army after a 26-year career. He headed Pinellas Park's personnel, risk management and pension divisions. He earns $81,698 a year.

[Last modified May 22, 2005, 01:07:21]