ORANGE PARK - The town officially said farewell to Sarah Campbell at Tuesday’s meeting.

In addition to a party before the meeting, the former town manager received a proclamation recognizing her work for the past 17 years. 

Campbell began working for the town in 2008 and was selected town manager in 2017. 

She was recently selected as the new city manager of Fernandina Beach. The council picked former Hapeville, Georgia, City Manager William Whitson to take her place as the new interim town manager.

In a closeout report, Campbell reminisced about the many memories and achievements the town made during the last seven years—from improvements to Town Hall and historic preservation to community enhancement projects.

With tears, hugs and laughter, many remembered Campbell’s time there as an impactful run.

“There has been a lot of joy and kindness in this process,” Campbell said. “It’s taken several months to play out. Orange Park has certainly left its mark on me, and it’s unforgettable. Thank you all.”

In other business, the council approved a work order for design and permitting services to reconstruct Blake Avenue. 

The conceptual design will include a sidewalk and bicycle route from Plainfield Avenue to River Road along Blake Avenue.

The service analysis will evaluate existing conditions and traffic patterns. The council clarified that public engagement will be involved in the process.