Kent County Restores Parks and Recreation Director Position, Hires New Director
Appointee brings over 20 years of experience to the job
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (April 27, 2023) – Kent County has hired Ben Swayze as its Parks and Recreation Director. He will start the position on May 22, 2023.
This position was recently restored to increase the Parks Department’s administrative capacity to help lead many projects, including expanding the Grand River Greenway, updating the Parks master plan, and working on planned property acquisitions. The parks and recreation director will also work closely with the current parks superintendent to enhance residents’ and guests’ experiences and meet the growing needs of community.
“Parks and recreation are critical to the quality of life in Kent County, and we are fortunate to welcome Ben to the team,” said Kent County Deputy Administrator Mark Rambo. “He brings a wealth of experience in parks and recreation, municipal leadership, and a passion for enhancing the lives of everyone who lives, works, and plays in Kent County.”
Swayze is currently the township manager of Cascade Charter Township and previously served as the parks and recreation director and city manager for the City of Milan, Michigan, overseeing an extensive park and trail system and full-service recreation department. Prior to that, he held an assistant manager position for the Apex Center, a 168,000 sq. ft. multi-use recreation center, in Arvada, Colorado.
“I’m grateful for this opportunity to join a team of individuals who work so hard to serve the community,” Swayze said. “Parks and recreation are integral parts of the vitality of the county, and I’m excited to be a part of the continued success of this department.”
Kent County has one of the largest parks departments in the State of Michigan, encompassing 42 parks, greenspaces, and regional trails totaling more than 7,354 acres. Swayze will direct the development and implementation of policies, procedures, and programs to preserve, expand, and improve County park lands all under the direction of the County Administrator’s Office.
Swayze holds a Bachelor of Arts in sports management and communication from the University of Michigan and a Master of Public Administration from Central Michigan University.
Kent County initiated a national search to fill the position. A five-member internal selection committee reviewed applications and conducted interviews before Swayze was selected for the job.
###
|
