New leader excited for opportunity

HURON TWP. — A woman steadily climbing the ranks of Erie County's predominant park district recently landed the top spot within her longtime organization. And she expressed a great desire to provide the public with flourishing areas — like greenspaces, woodlands, waterways, trails and other nature-based recreational areas — so people can enjoy the outdoors locally for many generations. Earlier this week, Melissa Price officially became Erie MetroParks' new executive director. She replaces Amy Bowman-Moore, who retired on Dec. 31 after putting in 15 years with the park district. "I love our park and this community," said Price, who previously worked as deputy director, effectively the second-in-command position, under Bowman-Moore for several years. Price's tenure with the park district dates back to 2002, working in various capacities. Starting off as a part-time employee, she elevated herself throughout the district's hierarchy, earning executive management roles as fiscal officer and deputy director. Price said she took advantage of "every training and opportunity that presented itself" to prepare her for these roles. This would include her serving on many statewide boards, such as the Ohio Parks and Recreation Association, and distinguished education committees. "I feel honored and humbled to be entrusted with the directorship," Price said. When asked about the most important aspect of her position, Price didn't hesitate, emphatically stating, "service." "I'm here to serve Erie County taxpayers, our amazing park staff, our selfless volunteers and collaborate with local governments and other partners to better serve our communities," she said. Among her top three short-term goals, Price intends to focus on: • Completing the new nature center, which is being built at Osborn MetroPark; Work should wrap up late this year. • Replacing and rebuilding Shelter No. 1, damaged by a 2023 summer storm, at the same park area off East Perkins Avenue in the Huron area • Getting approval of a renewal levy on March's ballot; If approved, taxes won't increase. She's still giving some thought to her longer-term goals. "I would like to form and publish a three- to five-year strategic plan based on staff and community engagement to guide future decisions," said Price, who's making $92,000 in her new position. The three park commissioners — Don Miears, Margaret Murray and Troy Wisehart — each believe Price can help Erie MetroParks flourish largely due to her passion for parks. Price's track record also speaks to a successful track record, convincing them to promote her. "Melissa has been a dedicated employee for many years, serving many different positions with Erie MetroParks," Miears said. Added Wisehart: "We are very excited to have Melissa accept the position of park director. I'm happy that we could hire from within, and I am confident that Melissa will continue the success that the metro parks have enjoyed over the last decade."