Tara Keegan has been appointed the new director of tourism for Putnam County, by County Executive Kevin Byrne, following the retirement of Tracy Walsh. The appointment will go before the County Legislature for a vote this month.
According to Byrne, Keegan is a Putnam resident with a long history of both public service and community event organization and promotion.
“Putnam County has so much to offer visitors, be it world-class restaurants, beautiful walking trails, waterfront, museums, local shopping and more,” he said. “Few in this community are more respected than Tara Keegan. I’ve known Tara for a very long time and I am confident she will bring passion and her own level of expertise to this job.”
Keegan previously worked at a local law firm and in the New York State Assembly, while volunteering with a number of local organizations and committees, including the Northern Westchester/Putnam St. Patrick’s Day Parade Committee as the publicity secretary. In addition, her work with the Emerald Association of Putnam County to plan the annual Putnam County Feis at Veterans Memorial Park in Carmel/Kent has consistently attracted thousands of individuals to the area year after year.
Putnam County Legislature Chairman Paul Jonke expressed his enthusiasm for the appointment.
“Tara Keegan has always demonstrated a profound dedication to our community,” he said. “Her vision and commitment to promoting Putnam County’s rich cultural offerings make her an excellent choice for director of tourism. I look forward to seeing how her leadership will enhance our county's appeal to visitors.”
Patrick O'Malley, retired captain with the Putnam County Sheriff’s Office and chairman of the Northern Westchester/Putnam St Patrick’s Day Parade Committee, also praised Keegan’s appointment.
“Tara Keegan is one of the most valued committee members,” he said. “Serving as publicity secretary and volunteering for many years, Tara is enthusiastic, smart and hard working. She has a skillset that is very needed, and is a team player. I cannot thank her enough for the work she’s put in for the parade and I’m honored to call her a friend. She’s exactly what the county needs to elevate our tourism initiatives. I have no doubt she will excel in this new role.”
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