The Dallas Park and Recreation Board approved and released its fiscal year 2012-2013 annual report that highlights the department’s efforts to fulfill its vision of being a premier park and recreation system in the United States. The report recaps the department’s achievements from October 1, 2012 to September 30, 2013.

Park and Recreation Board President Max Wells said he and the entire Board are excited about the department’s future. He expressed full support of the park system’s new director, Willis Winters, who was appointed to the top leadership position in January 2013.

Wells said, “Willis’ training as an architect and his longtime dedicated and innovative work as a park department employee brings unique skills to the tasks we all face together. He brings the right combination of expertise and leadership to the position. He is serving Dallas, the department and the citizens well.”

Focusing on the department’s programs and services, the report details multiple projects that were guided by challenging goals and the zealous efforts of administrators and staff. It includes a summary of new initiatives and of the department’s operating budget that totaled $72,747.397. Of the total budget, 34% was appropriated for park land maintenance, a primary focus of the board and department.

“The year was enormously fruitful and the accomplishments represent the high quality of our employees and their determination to deliver a park system that fully meets the interests and wishes of our citizens,” said Winters. “Our department is appreciative of the Park Board and their commitment to serving the citizens of Dallas by providing the next phase of departmental strategic planning and vision.”

Winters said two programs initiated by the Park and Recreation Board continue to grow because of the Board’s continual support: Send A Kid To Camp and It’s My Park Day. The report states that Send A Kid To Camp served 1,500 youth at 17 park sites across the city with funding received from annual campaign donations of $34,085. Also, It’s My Park Day fall and spring events brought nearly 3,000 volunteers to 115 parks to help with a variety of beautification projects.