Title
A Resolution Confirming the Mayor’s Appointment of Britt Haley as the Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Director
Presenter:
John W. Suthers, Mayor
Body
Summary:
Pursuant to City Charter § 4-40(f)(5) and City Code §1.2.201(B), subject to confirmation by the concurring vote of a majority of the members of City Council, the Mayor shall appoint the head or director of the department relating to parks, recreation and cultural services, a position currently titled the Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Director (Parks Director).
Background:
Colorado Springs’ former Parks Director, Karen Palus, resigned effective June 18, 2022.
A nationwide search was conducted for Ms. Palus’ replacement, and 105 candidates applied. Four candidates were interviewed by the selection panel. The interview panel included a diverse group of key stakeholders selected to include both internal and external individuals familiar with the responsibilities and duties of the role and City operations. Britt Haley was chosen as the top candidate for the position.
Britt Haley has been with the City of Colorado Springs since 2012 and with the Parks Department since 2017, most recently in the position of Parks Development Manager. Prior to joining the Parks Department, Haley was the Corporate Division Chief in the Colorado Springs City Attorney’s Office, served as a deputy district attorney in Colorado’s 5th Judicial District, was the executive director for the Western Business Roundtable, the director of the State Board of Land Commissioners, the chief counsel and chief deputy legal counsel for the Office of the Governor of Colorado, and the assistant attorney general in Denver. Through this work, she focused on land and water rights acquisitions and exchanges, land stewardship and management, and gained specialized experience in government law. She has a bachelor’s degree in international affairs and a law degree from the University of Colorado.
Previous Council Action:
There has been no prior City Council action on the proposed confirmation of Britt Haley as the Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Director.
Financial Implications:
If confirmed as the Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Director, Britt Haley’s initial annual salary will be set within the salary range for Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Director established by City Ordinance No. 21-111, regarding the 2022 salary structure for civilian and sworn municipal employees. Ms. Haley has served as Acting Parks Director since May 4, 2022; thus, it is requested that if confirmed her confirmation be effective to that date.
City Council Appointed Board/Commission/Committee Recommendation:
N/A
Stakeholder Process:
Pursuant to Rule 6-3 of the City of Colorado Springs Rules and Procedures of City Council, the recommendation of Britt Haley as Parks Director was made to City Council on September 19, 2022, accompanied by Ms. Haley’s confirmation packet.
Alternatives:
Do not approve the proposed resolution.
Recommended Action
Proposed Motion:
Move for approval of the proposed resolution confirming the Mayor’s appointment of Britt Haley as the Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Director.
Summary of Ordinance Language
N/A