Olympia parks director Paul Simmons receives statewide award

The Olympia City Council has signed a proclamation designating July 2023 as Parks and Recreation Month and recognized Parks, Arts, and Recreation Director Paul Simmons for receiving an award from the Washington Recreation and Park Association (WRPA).

The WRPA bestowed Impact and Influence Award to Simmons for his dedication and achievement in the parks and recreation field.

Parks achievements

During the proclamation, Recreation and Facilities Director Scott River highlighted some of the parks department's accomplishments, including launching the Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (EIB) Committee led by Olivia Salazar de Breaux.

He said the committee serves as a platform for employees to address issues related to equity, inclusion, and belonging, develop solutions, and drive the implementation of policies and practices throughout the department.

River recognized de Breaux, who has been instrumental in organizing eight cultural celebrations directly or through partnerships. These events include the Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage celebration in May, the recent Juneteenth Celebration festival, and the upcoming Hispanic Heritage Month.

"I intentionally shared our equity, inclusion, and belonging committee work because our remaining accomplishments are all influenced by this work…that work has become part of the culture in our department," River told the city council.

Squaxin land stewardship

After a discussion between the Squaxin Island Tribe Council and Olympia City Council's resolution, River said Squaxin Park was officially renamed on April 25, 2022.

He said the new title honors the enduring presence and stewardship of the tribe on the land since time immemorial.

The parks department is collaborating with the Squaxin Island tribe, the Olympia Historical Society, and an intern from St. Martin's University to develop an interpretive sign to be installed in the park.

Accomplishments

The parks department has kept a reserve of up to 20% of camp registrations for families qualifying for scholarships before opening the camp registration to the general public.

River said they had awarded $16,000 in scholarships for summer camps this year.

River also recognized Laura Keehan, the department's parks planning and design manager.

In March, Keehan graduated from the Northwest Women's Leadership Academy, a competitive year-long program designed to advance women in leadership roles who work in local government.

"She is a respected leader in the city that strives for excellence," River commented.

Proclamation

The city council encouraged the community to support and utilize the parks, which were valuable resources.

Parks offer recreational classes, camps, and programs that improve individual health, build community, and support.

The proclamation stated parks and natural recreation areas preserve the ecological beauty of the community and provide spaces for people to connect with nature and engage in outdoor recreation.