Cabarrus County Commissioners declare July as Parks and Recreation Month

The Cabarrus County Board of Commissioners held a regular meeting on June 16, 2025, focusing on the importance of parks and recreation in the community. The meeting began with a proclamation recognizing July as Parks and Recreation Month, emphasizing the vital role these services play in promoting health, wellness, and community engagement.

Brian Haylor, a representative from the Parks and Recreation Department, addressed the commissioners and attendees, highlighting the significance of parks in enhancing the quality of life for residents. Instead of a traditional reading of the proclamation, Haylor presented a video showcasing the stories of dedicated staff and community members whose lives are positively impacted by local parks and recreation programs.

The proclamation outlined several key benefits of parks and recreation, including their contributions to physical and mental health, the promotion of active lifestyles, and the provision of essential services such as nutrition education. It also noted the economic advantages parks bring to the community, including increased property values and tourism, as well as their role in environmental sustainability and resilience against climate change.

Following the video presentation, Haylor expressed gratitude to the communications department for their efforts in creating the video, particularly acknowledging Jalen McCray for his contributions. The meeting concluded with a call for John Poole, a program supervisor for Franklin's Park, and other special guests to join the discussion, further emphasizing the community's commitment to active living and the importance of parks.

Overall, the meeting underscored the Cabarrus County Board of Commissioners' dedication to enhancing community well-being through parks and recreation, setting the stage for a month-long celebration of these vital resources.