PORTSMOUTH — Kudos and citations greeted two longstanding town employees at Monday night’s Town Council meeting in recognition of their upcoming retirements, effective June 30.

Administrative Assistant Barbara Ripa, who works just outside Town Administrator Richard Rainer, Jr’s office, is saying goodbye after more than 26 years of service, beginning Oct. 6, 1997.

Leon Lesinski, the Planning Board’s administrative officer since June 8, 2011, has announced his retirement after more than 13 years on the job.

Town proclamations were read in honor of both employees, thanking them for their “many accomplishments” and congratulating them for their “untiring efforts on behalf of our community.” They also received citations from the Rhode Island Senate and House of Representatives. 

“I leave with very mixed emotions as you all know,” Ripa said in a brief statement. “It’s been wonderful working here, most of the time anyway. I never expected to get the job when I got it; it was such a surprise. I hope I’ve done well for the town. I tried my best. I’ve met some wonderful people, too many of which have gone already. Thank you everybody.”

Lesinski quipped that he never received the same kind of attention at any of his previous jobs.

“I’ve enjoyed working here for the past 13 years. We have a fine group of people here working at the Town Hall. My age is catching up to me and it’s time I retire. Thank you very much,” he said.