City Manager Stephanie Dietz announced the appointment of Christopher Jensen as the City’s Director of Parks and Recreations Department. Jensen officially begins Tuesday, January 18, 2022.
“Mr. Jensen brings more than 18 years’ experience in social services and behavioral health-supportive programming and has a reputation of being a thoughtful and collaborative professional,” said City Manager Stephanie Dietz. We are confident of his ability to manage our parks while developing relevant and equitable programs and services that will meet the needs of people at the neighborhood level and community-wide throughout the City of Merced,” concluded Dietz.
In his position, Mr. Jensen will be responsible for directing, managing, and leading the activities and operations of the Parks and Recreation Department, including recreation and special events programming, parks management, and zoo services. Additionally, Mr. Jensen will develop cultural, educational, community, and social service programs. Lastly, he will oversee and provide staffing needs for the Merced Zoological Society to develop Zoo facilities and programs.
“Parks are spaces in which communities come together to enhance our wellbeing. The parks we manage and the recreation programs we offer are a great illustration of the quality of life residents and visitors can expect from our City” said Jensen. “I am looking forward to leading a team of experienced and dedicated professionals as we work together to elevate our parks, our programs and expand our services to support the needs of our growing community,” he said.
With his broad skills and experience, Jensen will be a vital member of Merced’s leadership team as the City works to enhance programming, public spaces and engagement for all residents and visitors now and into the future.
Jensen is currently pursuing his master’s degree in Public Administration from National University.