Our Opinion: Distinguished career directing city parks

News Tribune editorial

If you've enjoyed any of the amenities operated by the Jefferson City Parks, Recreation and Forestry Department during the past 33 years, thank Bill Lockwood.

As agency director for more than three decades, Lockwood supervised and improved the local parks system.

No longer. During a Tuesday meeting of the Parks and Recreation Commission, a new director was hired and Lockwood was relegated to an advisory role, effective immediately.

The commission's action strikes us as a disappointing coda to a distinguished career, but our purpose here is not to chastise the commission.

Instead, it is to recognize and thank Lockwood for his commitment and his efforts to improve the quality of life in our city.

The parks and recreational opportunities we enjoy are unrivaled by many cities our size, as well as by some large cities. Among the amenities are parks large and small, together comprising more than 1,400 acres, an aquatic center and another swimming pool, a golf course, indoor ice arena, nearly 35 miles of greenway and hiking/biking trails and much more.

Although some facilities preceded Lockwood's tenure, he oversaw: the establishment of the greenway system; the transformation of the outdoor ice rink into an indoor arena; the transition of Memorial Park pool into an aquatic center; improvements and expansion at Oak Hills Golf Center; and more.

In addition, the parks agency operates more than 150 programs and partners with other community groups to host special events and athletic competitions.

As director, Lockwood supervised a staff of more than 45 full-time employees and more than 250 part-time or seasonal workers.

He also is the recipient of numerous community and professional awards. Among them, he received the Missouri Parks and Recreation Association's Fellow Award, the highest honor bestowed by the statewide group he served for 45 years, including stints as past president, treasurer and board member.

Despite his many awards and accomplishments, Lockwood management style was unassuming, deliberate and deferential to contributions of his staff and community partners.

That explains, in part, why he has been able to thrive amid changes in commissioners, city elected officials and community leaders. It also accounts for why many of his staff members also have established lengthy tenures with the agency.

Lockwood is a consummate parks professional but, equally important, he has devoted his career to improving Jefferson City's quality of life.

He has earned our appreciation and best wishes.