JIM BURKE NAMED DIRECTOR OF GLENDALE’S PUBLIC FACILITIES, RECREATION & SPECIAL EVENTS DEPARTMENT

GLENDALE, Ariz. — Glendale City Manager Kevin Phelps has selected Jim Burke as
the city’s new director over the Public Facilities, Recreation and Special Events
Department. The permanent appointment comes three months after Burke assumed the
role as the departments interim director.
“Jim brings decades of experience and leadership to this important role directly serving
our public,” said Glendale City Manager Kevin Phelps. “He understands this region and
the needs of our residents and we are very pleased to have him become a permanent
member of our team.”
Burke began the transition into his role last December when he was named interim
director of Public Facilities, Recreation and Special Events. “Glendale has a very robust
parks system, and this is an exciting time with many opportunities to continue to serve
those who live, work and play in this great city,” said Burke.
Burke brings 34 years of experience in the parks and recreation profession. Most
recently, he was the Parks and Recreation Director for the city of Phoenix where he
managed a $106.5 million operating budget and oversaw a department with more than
1,000 full-time and 900 contract employees. Burke played a key role with the
development of the extensive land preserve system in Phoenix, execution of several
major library projects and he worked on the planning and design of multiple community
centers, pool complexes and golf courses during his tenure with city of Phoenix.
Burke holds a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Arizona and a Master’s Degree
from the University of Phoenix.
Glendale’s Public Facilities, Recreation and Special Events Department provides a
multitude of “quality of life” services to residents across the city, including the operation
of parks, recreational amenities, festivals and event and civic meeting space and brings
in revenue through tourism programs that drive visitors to the city. For more information,
visit www.GlendaleAz.com.