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Committee recommends Somerville parks and recreation director nominee after questions about equity and access
Summary
The committee recommended the mayor’s nominee for director of parks and recreation, Oheming Trematang, after the candidate discussed priorities for equitable programming, outreach to residents with limited internet access, and pool maintenance. The recommendation passed on a roll call of present councilors.
The confirmation committee recommended Oheming Trematang (transcript variants: Oheming/Oherman) for director of parks and recreation after a presentation and question-and-answer session.
Kim Wells, speaking as chief administrative officer and former city clerk, introduced Trematang and described his background in recreation, strategic planning, budgeting and grant work coming most recently from Hartford. Trematang told the committee he has "been in recreation for a very long time" and said he would rely on staff and council knowledge to prioritize equitable and accessible programming.
Councilors pressed him on limited indoor facility space, weekend programming for families, communication barriers (residents without reliable internet or in languages other than English) and pool maintenance responsibilities. Trematang said improving outreach and communications (noting MyRec as suboptimal) is a top priority and that he has previous experience as a certified pool operator; he identified collaboration with DPW for heavy maintenance tasks.
After discussion the chair moved to recommend the nomination. The clerk called the roll and the present councilors voted to recommend Trematang to the full council for confirmation.
The recommendation will go to the full city council for final action; Trematang expressed appreciation and said he looks forward to serving Somerville residents.
