March 29, 2011

After 29 years with Portland Parks & Recreation (PP&R), and eight as Director, Zari Santner announced her retirement today.

Zari leaves a rich legacy for future generations of Oregonians - from her efforts to fully integrate recreation programs into other areas of the organization to her commitment to quality design, from diversifying the funding base for parks to protecting and managing our natural areas.

Under Zari's leadership, PP&R had significant achievements:

• Treasured community parks - the Vera Katz Esplenade, Director Park, Jamison Park, Tanner Creek Park, Caruthers Park, the Holly Farm, and the Ed Benedict Skateboard Park.

• Gains in East Portland - new properties, master plans for a number of sites, the LEED Platinum East Portland Community Center, and creative thinking about how to increase equity in our parks system.

• Commitment to stewardship of our natural areas, most notably Forest Park, the crown jewel of our parks system.

• An amazing team, which consistently earns high marks from the community for its services, facilities, and programs.

We'll be conducting a national search to fill Zari's position and continue her legacy of excellence. Nick told the Oregonian's Brad Schmidt this morning, "The truth is, I can't replace Zari Santner. She's left a beautiful legacy for us to build on."

Thank you, Zari, for your service to our city.

Portland parks director retires

The Portland Tribune

Santner retiring from parks bureau

The Business Journal

Zari Santner, Portland Parks & Recreation director, announces retirement

The Oregonian