CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — Jermel Stevenson has been active in his first six months as the new Corpus Christi Parks and Recreation director.
Stevenson looked to one of America's top marketers for ideas in implementing his strategy as a leader. He weeded through his staff, looking to create a better atmosphere within his department as he "really wanted to begin training our staff to have a bit more of a Disney feel to our customers."
Today not only marks Stevenson's six-month mark but also the start of the fiscal year for the Parks and Recreation Department. He spoke with KRIS 6 on his accomplishments so far and what he expects for the future.
With some help from City Manager Peter Zanoni, Stevenson tells us he was able to increase the yearly budget to $3 million.
The move "will enable us to deal with our mowing cycles, some needs in our aquatics areas, also some trail development as well," he said.
Within the next year, people can expect to see mowing and landscaping happening more frequently at city and neighborhood parks.
Parks and Recreation plan to bring in more splash pads throughout the aquatics areas as well.
"We have some, but they aren't free standing -- and very soon we'll take that proposal and that idea to city council for approval," he said.
One of the big accomplishments Stevenson was able to scratch off of his long list of 'to-do's' was the new ordinance for Blucher Park.
He hopes that by next spring and summer more plans will be implemented. One of them went into effect today, with free admission to all city swimming pools.
To find hours and locations of all city pools, you can do that here.
