The Parks & Recreation Department is divided into four primary areas of responsibility: Administration, Recreation Services, Capital Planning and Development, and Facilities and Operations. The Department is charged with the responsibility for operating and maintaining space (passive and active), and providing a comprehensive program of leisure opportunities and activities for all segments of our population. The needs and demands of our citizens are identified by input from the Parks & Recreation Citizen Advisory Board, Recreation Councils and the concerned public. A Recreation Council represents the leisure needs and interests of its members and the general community it serves. The staff of the Department work in close association with the Recreation Councils in program development and to assure that the expressed needs of the public are adequately addressed. Partnerships formed between the 20 local Recreation Councils and joint use agreements with the Board of Education enable the Department to lessen the burden on tax generated revenues while maximizing the return to taxpayers. The Department is committed to enhancing the lives of all our citizens through the provision of a diversified menu of leisure opportunities; the acquisition and protection of open space; the development, operation and management of adequate public recreation facilities; and the adherence to a strong environmental ethic.