Coconino County Supervisor Matt Ryan
FLAGSTAFF AZ (October 17, 2012) – Dedication to promoting the future of Coconino County’s parks system, its trails and open space, earned County Supervisor Matt Ryan the recognition of the Arizona Parks and Recreation Association’s 2012 Outstanding Public Official Award.
Supervisor Ryan, who represents District 3 on the County Board of Supervisors, was recognized during the Association’s Annual Conference and Trade Show in Phoenix for his contributions and leadership in ensuring the vitality of our public park areas.
“Northern Arizona is filled with endless natural beauty, which must be preserved for the generations that follow us. To do just that, however, requires thorough planning and gathering input from our various community partners,” Supervisor Ryan said. “Being recognized for my dedication is truly an honor, but I share it with those who have helped lead to these successes, including our staff and my fellow board members.”
An avid outdoorsman, Supervisor Ryan has helped build hiking trails in our National Forests and participated in numerous events aimed at getting people outdoors. He also aided in fostering agreements that supported partnerships with private companies to provide additional recreational outlets for visitors, while providing additional revenue sources for the County and local economy.
The County has partnered with Flagstaff Extreme Adventure Course, which allows visitors to master obstacles and zip-lines through the towering pine forest; the North Pole Experience, a holiday-themed park that will include Santa’s workshop; and the Pepsi Amphitheater at Fort Tuthill Park, the County-owned outdoor concert and events venue.
Supervisor Ryan’s support of the parks system has led to the creation of several community parks and the acquisition of more than 2,300 acres of open space for natural areas and trails. Thorough planning between the County and its partners have led to wetland and spring conservation, wildlife habitat and corridor protection, cultural and historic conservation and the social benefits each bring, Supervisor Ryan added.
“These innovative partnerships and growing our county park system wouldn’t have been possible without the support of the Board of Supervisors and Supervisor Ryan,” said County Parks and Recreation Director Judy Weiss. “Supervisor Ryan has always been an advocate for thorough planning to ensure the vitality of our park system for generations to come.”
The Arizona Parks and Recreation Association is a non-profit organization formed to promote, broaden and improve public parks and recreation opportunities throughout the state. The Association also provides members services and networking outlets to share best practices.
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