Parks director details storm recovery, staffing shortfalls and facility closures ahead of spring season
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Summary
Director Odom reported that tree damage from a recent ice storm has forced temporary closures of several golf courses and community center gyms, described staffing shortfalls (953 of 1,395 positions filled) and said FY26 operating budget requests focus on operational needs including additional tree crews and skilled trades.
Director Odom told the board that Metro Parks is still in recovery from a winter ice storm, with significant tree damage concentrated in and around Percy Warner Park and ongoing debris removal in the system.
"Our crews have made significant progress, but, again, recovery, particularly tree cleanup, will be lengthy for us," Odom said, noting that Harpeth Hills, McCabe and Percy Warner golf courses are closed and expected to reopen in seven to 14 days pending debris removal and course prep.
Odom also announced leadership changes in Parks Police effective March 1: Captain Christopher Holden is serving as parks police captain and Lieutenant Michael Russell has joined the parks police team; he said the department will continue to refine partnership and visibility across the park system.
On staffing and budgets, Ashley White (Finance and Administration) reported the division is budgeted for 1,395 positions with 953 currently filled (about 719.1 FTEs). White said the FY26 operating budget is $77,169,700 with salaries comprising roughly $42,125,500 (55%) and that roughly $11,000,000 remains for other operational expenses; the division’s budgeted revenue for FY26 is $18,515,400.
Odom told the board he has submitted FY26 operating requests focused on additional tree crews, skilled trades positions (carpenters, HVAC technicians), safety and security support, expanded disability and dance programming, and golf operations staffing. He said the department has begun a golf operations assessment to inform future strategy and that FEMA filings are underway for storm repairs.
The director also said the Parthenon is closed through June for HVAC and lighting upgrades to preserve collections, and that gyms at Shelby and Easley community centers remain closed for safety while repairs are coordinated; no firm reopening dates were available.