North Austin News

Robert Brent Dennis has withdrawn from the candidacy for the City of Austin's Parks and Recreation Department Director position. In response, City Manager T.C. Broadnax has added Oscar Carmona to the list of finalists.

A Meet & Greet event is scheduled for Wednesday, November 13, at 6 p.m. at the Conley Guerrero Senior Center in Austin. This event will introduce community members to the three finalists for the director position.

The role of PARD Director involves overseeing department operations, programs, facilities, and staff. It requires strategic leadership aligned with Austin's long-term goals.

The finalists include Jesús Aguirre, who brings over 25 years of experience in public and non-profit leadership in education and parks and recreation. Aguirre previously led departments in Washington D.C. and Seattle to achieve strategic visions and national accreditation. He also served as CEO of Waterloo Greenway in Austin.

Oscar Carmona has extensive experience at municipal, state, and non-profit levels. He recently served as COO for Hermann Park Conservancy in Houston and held positions in Raleigh and Dallas focusing on operational standards, budgeting systems, park expansions, equity initiatives, and partnerships with sports organizations.

Angela Means is currently serving as Interim Director of Austin's Parks and Recreation Department. With over 25 years of local government administration experience, she has held various executive roles within Austin's city departments.

Community members attending the event can submit questions for a moderated discussion and provide feedback to be considered by City Manager Broadnax before making his decision.

The event will offer free parking with American Sign Language and Spanish interpretation services available. Additional language services can be requested by contacting city services by November 12.