Oceanside Rec Director Quits Abruptly

The director of the Oceanside Recreation Department resigned abruptly Tuesday amid what sources said was an investigation into his possible misuse of public funds to buy surfboards, swim fins and sunglasses for personal use.

City Manager William O. Talley issued a press release late in the afternoon saying Richard J. Watenpaugh had resigned from the post he had held since July, 1982.

Talley could not be reached for comment late Tuesday, but sources close to the investigation say Oceanside police, acting on an anonymous tip, went to Watenpaugh’s home earlier in the day and confiscated five surfboards. There were conflicting reports on whether the boards were the full-size variety or the shorter “boogie boards.” A top-quality, full-size surfboard can cost several hundred dollars.

A short time after police went to Watenpaugh’s house, Talley met with the recreation director behind closed doors, and they emerged with the signed resignation, City Hall officials say.

The press release issued later said only that Watenpaugh had resigned for “personal reasons.” Watenpaugh’s wife told a reporter Tuesday evening that he was not home.

His post with the city will be filled on an interim basis by Jeffrey L. Porter, 40, who has been city recreation superintendent since 1983.

City officials say Watenpaugh, quiet and athletic-looking, had enjoyed a good working relationship with the council during his tenure. He was given high marks in recent years for his tireless work to broaden the city’s recreation programs and help push through plans for a new municipal pier.

The resignation comes one week after Watenpaugh was involved in an unusual public dispute at a City Council meeting with two of his employees, who protested plans to shift longtime recreational supervisors to new duties within the department.

Shortly after Watenpaugh submitted his resignation, two recreation employees were put on administrative leave. Officials would not reveal their names or say why the action was taken.