Community briefs for April 11, 2002

Thursday, April 11, 2002 | 8:32 a.m.

Parks director Rongyocsik retires

Henderson Parks and Recreation Director Steve Rongyocsik is retiring after seven years as head of his department, having brought the city national recognition for its parks and recreation facilities.

In a day when cities devote the price of a respectable home to build a single park bathroom -- industry standard is about $150,000 -- Rongyocsik was able to convince city staff and voters to fund a $55 million bond to build more parks in 1997, the same year he was appointed director.

Since that time, Rongyocsik, 52, has directed construction of 111 acres of new parks, with another 140 acres funded and in planning stages.

Under his watch, the department gained national accreditation, and in 1999 the city won the National Gold Medal from the National Recreation and Parks Association, the highest award for the industry.

Rongyocsik, who earned $120,000 annually, works his last day today. Utility Services Director Kurt Segler will serve as acting parks and recreation director while the city conducts a national search for a replacement.

Rongyocsik said three recent vocal chord surgeries have made public speaking difficult and led to his decision to retire.