Arlington Town Manager Jim Feeney is pleased to announce the appointment of Natasha Waden as Arlington’s Director of Recreation and Community Services. In addition to the administrative duties of running the department and managing its staff, the Director oversees and implements community recreational and state-licensed pre-school and after-school programs and the operation of the Ed Burns Arena, Reservoir Beach, and two spray parks in Arlington. The Director also manages capital projects under the jurisdiction of the Park and Recreation Commission. Waden began her role on September 30, 2024. 

“Natasha is a great fit for this role,” said Feeney. “She is a dedicated public servant and a collaborative leader who listens to all perspectives and has extensive knowledge in municipal regulations that will serve the needs of Arlington residents. I’m confident she will continue to provide exceptional service to the Department as she has done for the Health & Human Services Department.” 

Since 2005, Waden has served Arlington, mostly in the Health and Human Services Department, first as the Town’s Lead Health Compliance Officer for 11 years and then as the Public Health Director for 7 years. During her time in the Health Department, she oversaw the department’s operations, budgets, programs and services, while supervising staff, volunteers, and sub-contractors. She also co-led the Town’s COVID-19 response during the pandemic. Since June 2024, Waden has been serving as the Interim Recreation Director, overseeing those operations while the Department settles in their new home in the Parmenter Building. 

“Arlington is an incredibly passionate community,” said Waden. “I look forward to working with our dedicated staff and committees fulfilling the recreational needs of the community.” 

Waden holds a Master of Public Administration from Suffolk University and a Bachelor of Science in Health Education and Wellness Management with a Minor in Human Resource Management from Plymouth State University. She also has certificates from the Massachusetts Municipal Association and Suffolk University in Municipal Finance Management and Local Government Leadership and Management.