Garner Parks , Recreation & Cultural Resources
Garner Parks , Recreation and Cultural Resources ( PRCR ) manages 12 parks totaling 473 acres and five facilities featuring open space , athletic courts and fields , picnic shelters , playgrounds , trails , classrooms , and more .
The Town of Garner is committed to expanding the Parks , Recreation and Cultural Resources Department ' s programming and amenities with recreation parkland and greenway trails . Parks Capital Projects develop and enhance park , recreational and cultural opportunities for Town residents . In November 2021 , Garner voters approved four bond referendums , including $ 35.5 million in Parks and Recreational Bonds . These funds will go toward new park development , rehabilitation projects at existing parks , and greenways . Along with bonds , the Town has been awarded grants to help with this mission .
Mission Statement
To enrich the quality of life in Garner by offering a diverse system of parks , recreational facilities , programs , and cultural resources .
Vision Statement
Helping Garner maintain its high quality of life and service delivery to its citizens and visitors through the following core values :
• Leadership- fostering a climate of creativity that develops high-potential talent and embraces innovation cutting-edge ideas and accountability for making decisions and recommendations . ( TOG- Efficient & Timely Service Delivery )
• Efficiency- Ensuring that programs and services are provided efficiently and effectively while matching community needs . ( TOG- Fiscal Responsiveness , Efficient & Timely Service Delivery )
• Diversity- Recognizing the changing demographics of the community and celebrating the unique qualities , characteristics , and experiences . ( TOG- Orderly Growth )
• Stewardship- Maintaining aesthetically pleasing parks and facilities ( TOG- Quality of Life )
History
From its beginning in 1967 , the department was created to serve the community . Citizens requested funds for lights at a field being used for volunteer-led recreation . The following year , the Town hired the first part-time director to oversee this project and facilitate the other volunteer programs that were providing recreation . In 1972 , Ross Whitfield was the named the first full-time director , and recreation services in Garner began to expand beyond athletics to providing parks , programs , and facilities . By 2012 , the Town acknowledged the important role that arts and culture plays in the community and added “ Cultural Resources ” to the name of the department .
In 2015 , the department was honored as a nationally accredited agency by the National Recreation and Park Association and CAPRA and was reaccredited in 2020 . This mark of
GARNER PRCR STRATEGIC PLAN 2023-2027 4 9 / 28 / 2023