Don Pierce confirmed as White County parks director amid questions over hiring timeline

White County commissioners confirmed Don Pierce as Parks and Recreation Director in February following a recommendation from the county executive and state HR participation in the hiring process. The roll‑call recorded 11 yes, 1 no and 2 absentees.

Executive Robinson explained the appointment was tied to a partial grant and that Robinson and HR had monitored the interview process and recommended Pierce for the role. "We have a recommendation of Don Pierce. He is experienced in our local youth sports facilities," the executive said.

A commissioner asked how many applications had been received and whether commissioners had an opportunity to participate in the hiring. Officials said there were five applications and that HR handled testing and initial vetting; the executive said commissioners were invited to participate in interviews if they wished.

One commissioner raised concerns about the timeline, noting Pierce’s application date (stated in the record as February 3) came much later than most other applications (cited as December 1), and called the process "shady." The executive and other commissioners pushed back, saying initial applicants did not meet qualifications, HR ran the process, and there was an invitation for commission members to join interview sessions.

Commissioner Chris Springton cast the only recorded 'no' vote. After roll call, the chair announced Pierce is appointed to the position. The commission did not place conditions on the appointment during the meeting; follow up on onboarding and role responsibilities was implied.