News Summary
Chattanooga has named April Furth as the new Administrator for the Parks & Outdoors Department, effective June 13. With prior experience as the Director of Community Development in Vancouver, WA, Furth aims to enhance the city’s goal of becoming the first National Park City in the U.S. Her appointment follows the departure of former Administrator Scott Martin, and she plans to work closely with Mayor Tim Kelly to improve green spaces and outdoor projects, fostering public engagement in the community.
Chattanooga Appoints April Furth as New Parks & Outdoors Administrator
Chattanooga has appointed April Furth as the new Administrator for the Parks & Outdoors Department. She will begin her role on June 13 and aims to enhance the city’s commitment towards becoming the first National Park City in the United States.
Furth brings valuable experience to the position, having served as the Director of Community Development for Clark County in Vancouver, Washington. With a strong background in operational management and customer service within the retail sector, she is poised to implement the innovative vision that the Parks & Outdoors Department is known for. Mayor Tim Kelly highlighted that this department is recognized as one of the most innovative in the country, reflecting Chattanooga’s strategic goals for outdoor spaces.
The appointment comes following the departure of the former Administrator, Scott Martin, who accepted a new position in Virginia. Since Martin’s exit, Monica Kinsey has been serving as the interim administrator, ensuring continuity within the department’s operations during this transition.
Furth’s Vision and Goals
April Furth expressed her eagerness to join the Chattanooga team, emphasizing her understanding of the pivotal role parks play in community well-being. Her primary goal includes executing the vision of transforming Chattanooga into a National Park City, a designation that underscores the city’s commitment to enhancing green spaces and outdoor recreational opportunities.
Furth is set to collaborate closely with Mayor Kelly and other city officials as they continue to develop parks and outdoor projects that align with the community’s needs and attract both residents and visitors. She is enthusiastic about fostering public engagement and exploring new initiatives that could enhance the city’s natural spaces.
Background Context
The National Park City initiative aims to recognize urban areas that prioritize nature and biodiversity, while also promoting environmental sustainability. Chattanooga’s ambition to become a National Park City reflects its dedication to improving the quality of life for its residents by integrating nature into the fabric of urban living.
With April Furth taking the lead in the Parks & Outdoors Department, stakeholders in Chattanooga are optimistic about the potential growth and vibrancy of the city’s green spaces. Furth’s diverse skill set and leadership experience are anticipated to bring fresh strategies and perspectives to the challenges and opportunities facing the department.
Overall, the addition of April Furth as the Parks & Outdoors Administrator is considered a significant step forward as Chattanooga continues to build upon its legacy of innovation in public recreational spaces.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Times Free Press: Chattanooga Names New Parks & Outdoors Administrator
- Wikipedia: National Park City
- Chattanoogan: April Furth To Head Chattanooga Parks
- Google Search: Chattanooga Parks Department
- Local 3 News: City of Chattanooga Celebrates New Park Opening
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Chattanooga
- Times Free Press: Chattanooga Parks Administrator Departing for Job
- Google News: Chattanooga Parks Administrator
Author: STAFF HERE CHATTANOOGA WRITER
The CHATTANOOGA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREChattanooga.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Chattanooga, Hamilton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Riverbend Festival, Chattanooga Oktoberfest, and Moon River Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Chattanooga Area Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater Chattanooga, plus leading businesses in manufacturing, insurance, and utilities that power the local economy such as Volkswagen Chattanooga, BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee, and EPB. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREKnoxville.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
