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Federal Way honors parks director John Hutton after 34 years of service
Summary
The City Council and mayor recognized John Hutton for 34 years as Federal Way’s parks director, highlighting development of Town Square Park, the community center and 33 city parks; Hutton thanked staff and family during an emotional farewell.
The Federal Way City Council on May 19 formally recognized John Hutton for 34 years of service to the city’s parks and recreation operations.
Mayor Farrell led tributes that credited Hutton with overseeing the development and stewardship of 33 parks, the Federal Way Community Center, Town Square Park and other long-range projects. The mayor recounted hiring Hutton as parks director and praised his stewardship and fiscal care: the proclamation read, “To John Hutton, on behalf of the city of Federal Way, thank you for 34 years (1992–2026) of dedicated service to our community.”
Hutton, who said he began with the city when the population was roughly 75,000 and now leaves after helping add thousands of residents and many new parks, thanked the mayor, council and his staff. He singled out members of his management team and family, including his wife Danielle and daughter Shelby who was in attendance, and said the parks work had been “incredible” and a central part of his life.
Councilmembers and staff described Hutton’s tenure as marked by program expansion and stewardship, noting events, community programs and capital projects (Town Square Park, Silver Sneakers program, facility improvements) created under his leadership. Several councilmembers and members of the public offered personal anecdotes about Hutton’s mentorship and community impact.
What it means: The recognition formalizes a leadership transition in parks and underscores the city’s emphasis on recreation, event programming and facility maintenance as part of Federal Way’s community identity. The council recessed for a photo and reception following the remarks, and will proceed with selecting next steps for parks leadership and succession.
Next steps: The council held a brief reception and directed staff to continue parks operations; no personnel appointment was made at the May 19 meeting.
