MORRISTOWN — The Morris County Freeholders are expected to vote in a new County Parks Commissioner at their next meeting scheduled meeting set for October 14. At a prior meeting of the Freeholders, a majority including Hank Lyon, David Scapicchio, John Krickus and Thomas Mastrangelo indicated that they would be in favor of appointing Parsippany Councilman Dr. Louis Valori to the post.
Former commissioner Judith Schleicher vacated her position in July and Valori’s appointment will fill her unexpired term which ends December 31, 2017.
“I feel honored to be considered,” Valori told Parsippany Focus.
The Morris County Parks Commission was established in 1956 by voter referendum. Lewis Morris County Park in Morris Township was the first park dedicated in March 1958 with 350 acres. The second park acquired was 75 acres and is now known as James Andrews Memorial Park in Randolph.
Morris County is the largest county park system in New Jersey based on acreage and is steward to over 18,730 acres of parkland. It includes 38 facilities: historic sites, golf courses, outdoor educational and recreational facilities, arboreta, conservation areas, 150 miles of trails, ice skating arena, and an artificial turf field complex with two inline hockey rinks. More than 3.5 million visit the parks each year.
The Morris County Parks System staff includes 156 full-time and 149 seasonal and part-time employees. Hundreds of volunteers contribute more than 13,000 hours each year.
There are 9 volunteer Park Commissioners serving 5-year terms selected by the Board of Chosen Freeholders. Each Commissioner serves on several committees to oversee the Park System’s activities. The Commission has public meetings monthly, except for August.
