Adrien Lumumba has been hired as Belfast’s new Parks and Recreation director.
The city received 18 applications for the job and held two rounds of interviews in January, said City Manager Erin Herbig, who was on the hiring committee. The City Council on Tuesday approved the committee’s recommendation to hire Lumumba.
“We were very, very impressed with his education and with his professional experience,” Herbig said.
Lumumba has a background in college athletics, working for Rice University, the University of New Hampshire and others, directing facilities, overseeing capital projects and coordinating large events. This is his first job in municipal government.
As director, Lumumba will be responsible for coordinating community-wide events and developing and administering budgets, among other responsibilities.
“I think my background and experience has positioned me to come into this position and bring a fresh perspective,” Lumumba told the council.
The council also voted to appoint Carolyn Steeves as assistant to the parks and recreation director and pool operator.
Steeves was hired as the city’s pool operator last April. Since then, Herbig said her role has expanded.
“She has taken on reservations, she’s worked with community groups, she’s jumped on a mower. She’s done pretty much everything that it takes to make our parks and rec department move,” Herbig said.
The city’s former Parks and Recreation Director, Pam Salokangas, resigned in December after less than two years on the job.
Belfast’s parks have seen increased use in recent years, which has led to concerns about rule breaking and nuisance behavior.
Plans are underway to improve the playground and restrooms at Belfast City Park, according to a report from Herbig. In November, the City Council voted to accept the donation of a 94-acre off-leash dog park.
