Judge Timothy Grendell has appointed his employee, Constable John Ralph as GPD Park Commissioner. Considering this flawed appointment, it’s time to explore what makes a good park commissioner. Here’s some things that we should consider when appointing a commissioner.

Being a commissioner requires a time commitment. It’s lots more than just showing up once a month and voting yes on everything put before you. It requires one to study and review Park budgets and expenditures prior to spending.

One of the most rigorous and vital functions of a commissioner is to carefully review proposed land acquisitions. 

Another challenging part of the job is to review architectural plans to determine the suitability of construction projects under consideration. Careful review of what the finished project will look like needs to happen prior to its inception.

One of the hardest jobs as a commissioner is to say no to the Director for projects that are not in keeping with GPD’s mission to conserve, preserve and protect the park land.

Last and most important is that each member regardless of their area of expertise must have a personal commitment to conservation. We have an incredible park system.  We must appoint people who will preserve and protect it.

Submitted by Barbara Partington