SAUGUS — The Board of Selectmen honored Conservation Officer Frank McKinnon, who is retiring after 34 years as the conservation officer and 42 years serving on the Conservation Commission, Wednesday night with a citation.
“We are very fortunate tonight to honor somebody who has spent a great deal of his time and his life devoted to our town, and that person is Frank McKinnon,” Selectmen Chair Debra Panetta said.
“He’s still going to be involved, however. He made sure to tell me he was still not going to give up all the work he’s doing for the town, but his family has forced him into retirement after all of these years,” Panetta joked.
McKinnon was then invited up to the podium, where the board wished him well and expressed their gratitude for all his work.
“I just want to congratulate you and thank you for everything you’ve done… For this town and just take it easy… Thank you again for everything,” Selectman Corinne Riley said.
Selectman Michael Serino talked about his time working on the Conservation Committee with McKinnon.
“I was at his ‘semiretirement’ in Town Hall a few weeks ago, and he reminded me five times that he’s not going anywhere, he’s not retiring. But Frank, it was always great working with you. We had a lot of fun together, and I’ll be seeing you around anyhow. Thank you,” he said.
Selectman Anthony Cogliano spoke about how McKinnon always answered the phone whenever he needed him.
“I’ve known you a long time. What an outstanding gentleman you are. It’s been a pleasure to work with you. I think every single time I’ve ever called you, you answer that phone immediately. You’re just a great guy (and) a huge asset to the town. I’m sure you won’t be going anywhere,” Cogliano said.
Vice Chair Jeff Cicolini mentioned how he’s known McKinnon his entire life.
“I know you served many years with my dad on conservation, and I grew up going out to site visits and seeing you going through the motions. Let me tell you, you have definitely set the bar quite high, my friend. You’re going to leave some big shoes to fill for whoever tries to take on that task after you,” Cicolini said.
He continued that you don’t see people giving that much time to a community anymore, and that he appreciates all McKinnon has done.
“Your knowledge and know-how are going to be a valuable resource to whomever steps in going forward,” he said.
Town Manager Scott Crabtree said the town is very grateful for all the years McKinnon has dedicated to Saugus.
“You’re always there, you’re always accessible, and always there to help and give guidance to everybody, and we’re glad you’re sticking around in some capacity. So, thank you very much, and we’re so grateful that we’ve had you here for this long,” Crabtree said.
McKinnon then spoke, saying he’s enjoyed all his years in town.
“I always treated people with respect because you don’t get anywhere by yelling and screaming at people you know… I’ve enjoyed all my years here in Saugus, and I’ve been involved in every subdivision they’ve had. It’s been a pleasure, really,” McKinnon said.
Panetta then presented McKinnon with a citation for his “34 years of exceptional service to the Town of Saugus as conservation officer and 42 years as a dedicated member of the Conservation Commission.”
McKinnon’s family and members of the Conservation Commission were all there to watch McKinnon receive his citation and celebrate all the work he’s done.
