Mount Vernon resident Gil McCutcheon is retiring from his post as Mount Vernon Park Authority Representative effective immediately.

McCutcheon held his post for almost 20 years after being appointed by Supervisor Gerry Hyland in 1992. He has lived in Fairfax County for more than 60 years and has established himself as a dedicated public servant.

In 2008, he received the Distinguished Volunteer Service Award from the Virginia Recreation and Parks Society and has also received the Lawrence V. Fowler Award, which honors distinguished service by a member of a Fairfax County board, authority or commission.

During his tenure as representative, he helped to acquire and develop what is now Laurel Hill Park and has worked diligently to prevent park areas from being taken over by housing developments.

McCutcheon's position will be filled by a person of Supervisor Hyland's choosing. Hyland has established a committee to interview and evaluate applicants for the position. Applications for the position will be accepted until Jan. 5 and should contain a resume and a statement regarding the applicant's viewpoints on representation and current issues facing the Mount Vernon area. These applications can be submitted via email to mtvernon@fairfaxcounty.gov or via mail to Supervisor Gerry Hyland's office at 2511 Parkers Lane in Alexandria, 22306.