Officials with BREC say the search for the agency’s next superintendent is entering a critical phase after a week of interviews, tours, and meetings with candidates and community leaders.
During an appearance on “Mornings with Brian Haldane” on Talk 107.3, BREC representatives Janet Simmons and Maurice Velasquez detailed the extensive interview process. The three finalists spent several days touring parks, meeting employees, speaking with commissioners, and participating in community discussions.
The finalists include Brooks Williams, city manager and CEO for Ferris, Texas; Chris Maitre, CEO of Brackenridge Park Conservancy in San Antonio; and Daniel Betts, executive director of recreation for the Cincinnati Recreation Commission. Officials said all three candidates bring strong leadership and municipal experience.
BREC employees also played a role in the process. More than 200 workers attended a town hall with the candidates, while more than 400 employees submitted feedback through surveys. Officials said the commission wanted input from all levels of the organization before making a final decision.
Commissioners are scheduled to meet on May 13 to continue evaluating the finalists. A final decision could happen that day or later this month during a commission meeting. Officials expect the new superintendent to begin around mid-July.
BREC leaders also highlighted several upcoming community meetings tied to park improvement projects. Public discussions are planned for Perkins Road Park on June 3, Baker projects on June 9, and City Park updates on June 11.
Officials also announced a June 2 ribbon-cutting for the new Freedom Heritage Trail, a six-mile biking and walking trail connecting areas from Scotlandville through Baton Rouge. The project received funding through a Louisiana Department of Transportation congestion mitigation and air quality grant.