PARD support services present operations data; Parks Board approves letter of appreciation

The Parks and Recreation Department’s support services teams presented metrics and work summaries to the board and members approved a board letter thanking the division for administrative and operational support.

Finance manager David Hillers and business process consultant Ben (last name not provided) described the contributions of communications and engagement, human resources, safety, financial services, information systems management, contracts/purchasing/grants, records and performance management. Ben told the board the “support services mission is to be value‑added business partners that get results.”

Key figures given at the April presentation included: finance oversight of approximately $137 million in FY24 and $180 million in FY25; hiring of 173 full‑time equivalents in the prior year and 76 so far in FY25; an 11% vacancy rate and 45 active recruitments; nearly 3,000 pro‑card transactions processed last year and a FY24 accounts‑payable turnaround of 23 days reduced in FY25. The records and public‑information team reported an increase in public‑information requests (PIRs) but a decreased average days‑open time for responses.

After the presentation, Chair Pedro Villalobos read a draft letter dated April 28, 2025, addressed to the support services staff expressing appreciation for their work. Chair Villalobos moved approval of the letter; board member Merritt seconded. The motion carried 11–0.

Why it matters: Support services provide payroll, safety training, records management, grants and contract work that enable parks programming and facility operations across Austin. The board’s letter formalizes appreciation and acknowledges workload across a broad department.

(Ending) The board did not take other formal action on support services metrics beyond approving the letter of appreciation.