The North Whidbey Park and Recreation District will be taking a slightly different approach to finding a new executive director after the current director officially vacates his position.

Gino Wolfe, the executive director of the district, officially resigned from his position, effective Jan. 1.

“In the past, we’ve done searches; they’ve been short-term, quick searches,” said Sean Merrill, the chairman of the district’s board of commissioners.

Now, the board members have decided that instead of doing a quick search to fill the position as soon as possible, they’re going to look for an interim director to fill the position for three to six months while they do an extended search for a permanent executive director of the district.

“My concern is that we don’t go down the same road we went before,” said Commissioner Steve Hoffmire.

“I guess the one big thing, and I think we all would agree on this, we have to get this right.”

The district plans to advertise for the interim position until the end of the business day Friday, Jan. 16.

They’ll officially start the search for a permanent director during their regular board meeting Jan. 22.

Merrill appointed Hoffmire and Commissioner Wendy Shingleton as a subcommittee, in charge of approaching the Oak Harbor Chamber of Commerce to put out the information that they’re searching for an interim director that would fit the district’s needs.

Though the district will also be advertising the position in local newspapers and on its website.

“If we can find somebody in Oak Harbor, somebody that loves Oak Harbor, is invested here, wants to see this place be successful,” Hoffmire said.

“Maybe they’re not looking for a long-term position, as much as they want to help the Park and Rec be successful.

The hope of the district is that they’ll hire an interim director to work for three to six months while they do an extensive search for the permanent director, though being the interim director does not disqualify a person from becoming the permanent executive director, according to Merrill.

Aside from looking locally, Hoffmire suggested going to nearby park and recreation districts to find someone who might be willing to work with the North Whidbey Park and Recreation District for a few months.

The board will also begin advertising for a vacant commissioner’s position.

The former chairman, Allan McDougall, quit with no notice at the special meeting Wednesday, Dec. 10.

For information about the vacancies or the district, visit the website at oakharborpool.com or call 360-675-7665.