Newberry parks director outlines expanded programs; mayor proclaims July Parks and Recreation Month

Rod Clark, parks and recreation director, on July 14 updated the City Commission on program participation, recent hires and park capital projects while the mayor read a proclamation naming July Parks and Recreation Month. Clark said the department has grown from seven to 9.5 positions in the past year and highlighted partnerships, camps and renovations across city facilities.

Clark said the department has increased staffing and programming to meet demand. “Our department is living proof that teamwork makes the dream work,” Clark said. He described new hires including a special events coordinator, two grounds maintenance staff, and an intern, and noted partnerships with schools and nonprofits for camps and educational offerings.

The presentation summarized youth sport participation, seasonal registration trends, and summer programs. Clark said volleyball and soccer are among top registration drivers and that space constraints — particularly indoor gym space — limit further growth. He described new or improved facilities at Easton and Jimmy Durden parks, upgraded parking and sidewalks at Easton, and fencing and renovated fields at Jimmy Durden.

Clark reviewed community events hosted by Parks & Recreation: summer camps (including partner camps with university coaches and NFL-affiliated camps), a toy giveaway, MLK celebrations, West Fest and a series of tournaments at Champions Park. He said the department has been working with Newberry High School athletics on joint programming.

The mayor read a city proclamation that cites national findings about park use and economic impacts and formally designates July as Parks and Recreation Month in Newberry. The proclamation text, included in the meeting record, references National Recreation and Parks Association survey results and the National League of Cities study.

Why it matters: Clark framed the work as a combination of expanded services, volunteer and business partnerships, and targeted capital projects intended to support recreation access and downtown revitalization. The commission thanked Clark and staff and acknowledged local sponsors.

Details and next steps: Clark invited commissioners and residents to upcoming events and noted that plans for holiday and tournament calendars are underway. No formal vote or budget action was taken during the presentation; the proclamation was read aloud by the mayor as an official recognition.