City of Joplin names new Parks and Recreation director

(From the City of Joplin)

City Manager Sam Anselm announces that Scott Garrie has been promoted to the position of Director of Joplin Parks and Recreation. Garrie has served as Assistant Director for the department since joining the City in January 2014. He was named Interim Director in June of this year, when former director Chris Cotten took a similar position in Normal, Ill.

Garrie has more than 12 years of experience in several aspects of parks and recreation. Prior to joining the City of Joplin, he was in Nixa, Missouri, serving as the Director of the Parks department. He has worked in several Kansas City suburb communities, including the City of Harrisonville as the Business Manager. During his career, he has focused on budget analysis and management, expansion of parks and recreation facilities, and developed various programs and services to fit citizens’ needs and interests.

“Scott’s expertise in the business of parks and recreation activities will benefit our community,” said Anselm. “He has served our residents well during his tenure as assistant director, and I know he will continue to bring the same effort and enthusiasm to his new role in service to our community. I’m looking forward to having him as a member of our leadership team.”

Garrie earned Master’s degrees in Business Administration and Management and Leadership from Webster University. He received his Bachelor’s degree in Parks and Recreation from the University of Missouri. Currently he is one of a handful of Missouri Parks and Recreation professionals who has a certification as a Certified Parks and Recreation Executive (CPRE). He is a member of the National Recreation and Park Association and the Missouri Park and Recreation Association.

He is originally from Harrisonville. He and his wife, Kate, have three children: Luke, Ellie and Michael. For a number of years, he volunteered his time coaching youth sports and enjoys attending his children’s various school and sporting events. Garrie is looking forward to continuing to be a part of the City of Joplin as the new Director, and is eager to direct the department in developing a quality Parks and Recreation experience for our citizens.

Garrie’s promotion was effective August 3, 2015.