John Johnson

Name and title
John Johnson, Superintendent of Park Operations
Number of years with Jackson County Parks + Rec
Seven

1. Overall responsibilities
   I manage the Park Operations Division, helping the department exceed visitor’s expectations by providing clean, safe and accessible facilities and green spaces throughout the nearly 22,000-acre park system. Park Operations consists of Park Services, Natural Resources, Longview, and Fleming Park work groups. Staff members work diligently to mow, clean and maintain the grounds and structures at historic sites, marinas, shelters, Neighborhood Parks, campgrounds, beaches, and trails.

    

2. What is your fondest memory working with the Parks Department?
   Being a small part of the planning and execution of Christmas In The Park. The long hours that the Park Operations staff puts in to install, maintain and staff this cherished holiday tradition is, in my opinion, one of the best things Parks + Rec does for the community. Christmas in the Park is a generational tradition for so many, my family included.

    

3. Why is Jackson County Parks + Rec so important to our community?
   Parks is the one area of government where people choose to spend their time. As such, Parks + Rec works hard to provide a diverse offering of programs and facilities that help foster positive mental health, encourage physical activity, and facilitate enjoyment, whether it be on the water, on the fairway or just having a picnic. We work hard to provide the types of opportunities and positive experiences that justify the choice people make on how and where to spend their time.

    

4. What sets Jackson County Parks apart from all other parks in our region?
   The sheer size of the park system, nearly 22,000 acres, with multiple lakes, historic sites, campgrounds, sports complexes, marinas, radio control flying fields, championship archery courses, championship golf, horse park and of course the trails, improved and primitive.