About Us

The Garden City Department of Recreation and Parks takes great pride in our mission of "Enhancing the lives of residents, serve as stewards of Village resources, and foster a sense of community by providing diverse and valued parks, open space recreational facilities and programs". Feel free to browse this web-site to obtain detailed information on the cultural, sports and senior programs we offer as well as a listing of all of our recreational parks and facilities.

Garden City's great reputation for beautiful tree-lined streets is known throughout the nation. Each year, over 100 new trees are planted and hundreds are pruned. In addition, approximately 30,000 flower bulbs are planted annually during the Spring for a kaleidoscope of color in over 35 different locations.  The Department of Recreation and Parks cares for all Village-owned parkland and malls. Maintenance includes cutting grass, weeding, collecting leaves, cultivating shrubs and the general policing of these areas.  The department also has four mobile watering tanks to keep the Village's plantings vibrant during the hot summer months.

Board of Commissioners for Cultural and Recreational Affairs

Kevin E. Ocker, Chairperson
Michael Ryder

Timothy Stapleford
Judy Courtney
Kristina Russo
Christian Siragusa
Walter McKenna

Department of Recreation and Parks Staff

Kevin E. Ocker, Department Head
Sandra Young, Recreation Development Program Supervisor

Timothy Messner, Supervisor of Parks
Stephen Espey, Recreation Supervisor
Thomas McGerty, Recreation Supervisor​
Lori Kampe, Administrative Assistant