Park Hero Spotlight: Phil Smith

Park Hero Spotlight

Phil Smith, Parks Foreman, Town of Parma, Hilton-Parma Parks & Recreation

When we think of Park (and Rec) Heroes, we tend to spotlight our recreation staff as they are typically the ones on the frontline, interacting with the public. Meanwhile, our park employees are doing great things in the background such as making sure our fields are in pristine shape, prepping areas for events, or keeping our spaces clean and safe from hazards. These tasks alone make them true unsung heroes, but sometimes, you find a park employee that goes above and beyond on a daily basis. The Town of Parma has just that in their Park Foreman, Phil Smith. Phil started with the Parks Department in April of 2019. What he has done since then is nothing short of remarkable and admirable. In addition to taking on new and added responsibilities to the position, Phil has made the Town of Parma’s park and recreation system infinitely better with his presence and contributions. Here are just a few of Phil’s accomplishments over the past several years: • Reconstructed and revamped an eightbaseball field system which is now one of the most desirable locations in the area.

• Coordinated the COVID-19 safety supply and maintenance operations, training, and inventory for the entire Town (not just parks and rec). • Supervised the installation and area restoration of the new state of the art and inclusive Adventure Towers Playground at

Parma Town Park. His efforts and countless hours made it possible for the highly anticipated play structure to be ready for a grand opening under major time constraints. These are all tangible examples of Phil’s value to the community, but it is the intangibles that truly set him apart. Phil’s passion and jovial demeanor have created a fun and enjoyable working environment. Like a famous TV show with a different name, everybody loves Phil. It is not difficult to see why. He truly embraces the concept and culture that brings parks and recreation together, and all Town departments for that matter. In addition to putting in countless hours to get whatever job at hand done, Phil inserts himself into the recreation side of things. His family of six participates in most recreation offerings and when a coach is needed for youth sports, Coach Phil steps up. During a major event, Phil puts on his HP Parks & Rec staff shirt and takes on responsibilities of both a park and recreation professional and is the last one to leave. Simply put, Phil cares about the product he is behind and the idea of being the best product around. For these reasons and so much more, Phil Smith is a true Park Hero.