City of Merced announces appointment of director to lead Parks and Recreation Department

The City of Merced has announced the appointment of the director to lead the Parks and Recreation Department.

According to City Manager Stephanie Dietz, Christopher Jensen has been appointed as director of the department and will take over the position next week on Jan. 18, according to a City of Merced news release on Monday.

Jensen will be responsible for the directing, managing and leading activities and operations for the department including special events programming, recreation, zoo services and park management. Jensen will also develop educational, community, cultural and social services programs, according to the release.

He will also oversee staffing needs for the Merced Zoological Society in developing zoo programs and facilities.

“Mr. Jensen brings more than 18 years’ experience in social services and behavioral heath-supportive programming and has a reputation of being a thoughtful and collaborative professional,” said Dietz in the release. Dietz went on to say “we are confident of his ability to manage our parks while developing relevant and equitable programs and services that will meet the needs of people at the neighborhood level and community-wide throughout the City of Merced,” Dietz said.

According to the release, Jensen is pursuing a master’s degree in Public Administration from National University.

“Parks are spaces in which communities come together to enhance our wellbeing,” Jensen said in the release. “The parks we manage and the recreation programs we offer are a great illustration of the quality of life residents and visitors can expect from our City.”

Jensen said he looks forward to leading experienced and dedicated professionals while working to elevate programs and parks as well as expanding services to support the needs of the the city’s growing community

The city said Jensen’s skills and experience make him a vital member of its leadership team as it works to enhance public spaces, engagement and programming for residents and visitors into the future.