At the Aug. 5 joint meeting for the Russellville City Schools Board of Education and the Russellville City Council, members of both groups approved a contract agreement to extend RCS’s management of the city Parks and Recreation Department.

The agreement allows RCS to continue management of the department for the next five years. Per the original agreement, the city will continue to maintain ownership of the properties, paying for insurance on the properties, the utilities and will be responsible for major maintenance. RCS will be responsible for day-to-day maintenance, management of fields and parks and employment.

RCS first took over management of the Russellville Parks and Recreation Department five years ago, which was a way for the city to utilize school employees and coaches to help breathe life back into the department so it could be a viable resource for the city.

At the time, RCS administrators and Russellville Mayor David Grissom agreed it was a win-win situation for both groups.

“The city and schools worked together as a team to revitalize our Parks and Rec Department and have accomplished so many positive things over the last several years,” Grissom said. “It worked out well for all involved and has been a very successful initiative.”

Grissom said the department’s staff has made all the difference in the success of the partnership and the city’s willingness to extend the contract agreement.

“I want to commend Parks and Rec Director Donnie Flanagan for his leadership and the many hours he and his team have invested in making this department truly top notch,” Grissom said. “His dedication to excellence in both maintenance and management has helped bring in additional revenue through the tournaments we have hosted now that we have such wonderfully maintained facilities. I have heard so many positive things from community members and out-of-town guests about the enjoyable experience coming to events in Russellville, and I’m thankful for his hard work and the hard work of his employees.”

While the employees have played a significant role, RCS students have also contributed greatly to the improved conditions of the fields and facilities.

“When this agreement was first made, a new class at Russellville High School was created in the RCS Career and Technical Education Department for Turf, Grass and Field Management,” current RCS Superintendent Dr. Tim Guinn said. “This class has been very beneficial to our students looking to have a career in this field or who just want to learn more about grass maintenance and management. In turn, these students are able to practice the skills they learn at the park and rec facilities and provide necessary services. It has worked out well for everyone, and it’s something we’re glad to see continue. Any chance to educate our students in a hands-on way and help them gain necessary experience and knowledge is something we want to be part of.”

Grissom said seeing the Parks and Recreation Department flourishing over the last five years has him excited for what’s to come.

“I’m glad we can work together with the RCS board and administration to maintain this partnership that has worked very well for both groups,” Grissom said. “I look forward to several more years of ensuring our young people have access to the best facilities and programs possible at the Park and Rec level here in Russellville.”