The Portage Park District welcomes its newest Board member. Portage County Probate Court Judge Robert Berger recently appointed Charles (Chuck) Engelhart to the Portage Park District Board of Commissioners to serve a three year term effective August 3.
Mr. Engelhart, a lifelong resident of Portage County, currently serves as Director of Parks for Cleveland Metroparks where he has over 22 years experience in forestry and parks and recreation management. He received degrees in Biology and Interdisciplinary Studies from Kent State and Hiram College respectively, and is an outdoors enthusiast who enjoys hunting, hiking, and both road and mountain biking.
“I’m extremely happy that Judge Berger entrusted me to serve as a Board member for the Park District. It’s an exciting time because the District is at a critical juncture in its history. Thanks to the support of voters in 2014, the district now has a stable source of funding and can more readily plan and expand on its mission. I look forward to working with the public, fellow board members and park staff to promote long-term sustainability and compatible growth for current and future generations.”
Judge Berger noted that Chuck’s extensive parks management experience and his knowledge and appreciation of Portage County will serve the Park District well at this critical time in its evolution.
The Portage Park District is an independent government agency whose mission is to conserve Portage County’s natural heritage and provide opportunities for its appreciation and enjoyment. Commissioners serve without pay and are the governing body of the agency, responsible for hiring the Executive Director, approving budgets and contracts and setting policies and regulations. The District manages over 1,500 acres and 14 miles of hike and bike trails across the county, and is in the process of developing a 10-year master plan; the public is invited to participate. To learn more, visit their website or call the office at 330-297-7728.