Thomas Kenney is coming from Fort Hood, Texas
The city of Henderson on Tuesday named Thomas Kenney as the new parks and recreation director, replacing Trace Stevens who retired in early June.
Kenney comes to Henderson from Fort Hood, Texas, where he helped to reopen the Belton Lake Outdoor Recreation Area beach after it had been closed for a long time, according to a city of Henderson news release.
He was also instrumental in the implementation of recreation programs such as kayaking, paddleboarding and Fish & Fun days, the release said.
After Kenney’s hiring was approved by the Henderson City Commission during Tuesday’s regular meeting, he joined the meeting via a video call as he was driving through Houston. His enthusiasm on the call caught some off-guard, eliciting chuckles from the audience.
Kenney said he and his family are excited to move to Henderson.
“We are happy to be a part of the community,” he said.
His hiring passed by a 5-0 vote.
“I like the energy,” quipped Commissioner Kelsey Hargis.
Kenney holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Recreation and Parks Administration from Western Kentucky University. He also said Tuesday that his wife is also a WKU graduate.
He brings a wealth of experience in parks and recreation management to his new role, said the release.
Prior to his time in Texas, Kenney served as the first Parks and Recreation Director for Mount Pleasant, Tenn. During his time in this role, he was instrumental in the creation of the local Teen Center where he established programming for middle and high school aged students, said the release.
In his new role as the Parks and Recreation Director in Henderson, Kenney will oversee the management and operations of more than 20 parks facilities owned and maintained by the city, including cemeteries, the John F. Kennedy Community Center, and the various water features across the community.
“I am eager to build on Henderson’s beautiful parks and green spaces by bringing fresh ideas and programming to enrich this wonderful community,” said Kenney I a prepared statement. “Looking ahead, I am enthusiastic about collaborating with local organizations to forge strong partnerships and help position Henderson into a flagship city for the Commonwealth of Kentucky.”
“We are very excited to have Mr. Kenney join our team,” shared City Manager Dylan Ward. “I look forward to the impact he will have within our community as he works to strengthen the partnership between our parks and local organizations. His strong background in special events and recreational programming will continue to further the quality of life for our residents.”
Kenney and Sharon have three sons, Ross, Cameron and Eli.
