Hello everyone,
The Board of Commissioners is holding a retreat at 1:00p on Wednesday, April 29 at Strawberry Hill Center. The focus will be on setting priorities based on input received from the community through the Comprehensive Plan update process. Three key themes clearly rose to the top:
- Maintaining and Improving Inventory – continuing to enhance what we already have in order to better serve the public
- Trail Connections – expanding and connecting our trail network
- Shoreline Access – improving access to and enjoyment of our waterfront areas
These priorities reflect what our community values most, and they will guide our work moving forward.
At the same time, we remain committed to maintaining long-term financial health. Our goal is to complete priority projects while preserving a strong, healthy reserve. To do this effectively, we will continue to rely heavily on partnerships and leveraging tax dollars through fundraising efforts and grant opportunities whenever possible.
I also want to highlight recent success for our Bainbridge Aquatic Masters (BAM) swimming program. BAM Head Coach April Cheadle was recently honored as Pacific Northwest Association of Masters Swimmers (PNA) Coach of the Year, marking the third time she’s received this distinction — an unprecedented accomplishment in PNA’s history. This honor was accompanied by a second major award for the team, with Assistant Coach Tamara Tulou receiving the Dawn Musselman Inspirational Swimmer award. Having both awards go to members of the same team speaks volumes about the culture, dedication, and community that have been built. What stands out most is how this recognition reflects not just individual excellence, but the strength of the entire BAM program. Leadership has helped foster a highly engaged, supportive, and successful team culture, where participation and teamwork are clearly valued.
Additionally, I would like to recognize Assistant Recreation Director Bryan Garoutte as he approaches retirement on May 24. I’ve had the privilege of working with him for 20 years. In total, he has been with the Park District for 38 years. His service has exemplified professionalism, commitment, and excellence, and his contributions will have a lasting impact on the Park District.
As we move into this busy time of year, we are actively preparing for the summer season and all that comes with it. We’re currently hiring and hosted a very successful job fair on Monday, April 20, with over 60 attendees. We’re excited to work with many wonderful people to make this summer productive and memorable. If you’re interested in working with us, check out our open jobs here.
Thank you for your continued support as we work to serve our community.
See you out there,
Dan Hamlin, Executive Director