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Seattle Parks superintendent announces aquarium director Ronald Glazier's resignation on November 9, 1984.

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On November 9, 1984, Seattle Parks Superintendent Walter Hundley (1929-2002) announces the resignation of Seattle Aquarium director Ronald Glazier. Glazier cited frustration with Parks Department management as the reason for leaving the post he has held for three years.

Glazier was the aquarium's second director, having replaced Doug Kemper, who was forced out in June 1981 after expressing similar concerns about City management.

Hundley said he did not try to talk Glazier out of resigning, claiming that many top staff left during Glazier's term. The previous year, the aquarium had suffered its fourth consecutive year of declining attendance.

Glazier blamed the lack of major new exhibits since 1977 for the declining attendance. However, he said the trend had reversed. He predicted more visitors next year.

The long-delayed Tropical Pacific exhibit, a high priority when Glazier was hired, was expected to open in late 1985. The exhibit was delayed when the 20,000-gallon main tank sprung leaks.

Glazier said he was frustrated about cutbacks to the aquarium's promotional budget and said science and research functions did not receive as much support as recreational programs.

Hundley said Parks Department operations director C. M. "Bud" Girtch would assume control of day-to-day operations until a new director could be found.

Sources:
Duff Wilson, "Seattle Aquarium Director Resigns," The Seattle Times, November 10, 1984, p. A-3.

By Patrick McRoberts, January 01, 2000

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