The Emporia Recreation Commission will have a new director of Rec Operations by next year.
That’s because, during its regular meeting Monday evening, the Emporia Recreation Commission voted unanimously to approve a separation agreement with longtime director Tom McEvoy. McEvoy has played an instrumental role in local recreation for nearly four decades and in a prepared statement given to KVOE News following Monday’s meeting he stated “it has been an honor to collaborate with dedicated board members over the years, working together to enhance community programs and facilities.”
McEvoy went on to thank his family for their “sacrifices and patience” throughout his career as well as his colleagues and the City of Emporia for the “wonderful memories we have created together.” The full statement from McEvoy can be found below.
McEvoy’s tenure will come to an end effective January 1. In the meantime, the search for McEvoy’s replacement will begin with the formation of a special committee that will be responsible for setting the parameters for said search according to ERC Chairman Jeremy Dorsey.
The committee will consist of Dorsey and fellow Rec Commissioner Mike Helbert, staff members Aaron Hammond and Stephanie Drescher and two community members to be named at a later time pending their acceptance of appointment. Dorsey says a report from the committee is expected at the commission’s next regular meeting in November at which time an interim director will be discussed and possibly approved.
An exact timeline for appointing a permanent director is currently pending.
While speaking with Dorsey Monday evening, KVOE News asked why the commission chose to develop and approve a separation agreement with McEvoy. Dorsey could not comment on all of the factors due to confidentiality reasons, however, he says one of the contributing factors for the separation agreement was the fact that McEvoy never had a formal contract for his position.
Dorsey adds the commission has already taken steps to ensure an agreement of this nature will not be needed in the future.
In other business Monday evening, commissioners received the latest update on the new Emporia Recreation Center from the rec steering committee, discussed a potential facilities study, received public comment from senior rec center patrons regarding a new senior programming supervisor and discussed employee tax credits.
The ERC is set to reconvene on Monday, November 18 at 5:30 pm inside of the Lee Beran Recreation Center.
Full statement from Tom McEvoy:
Emporia, KS – October 21, 2024 – I am announcing my retirement as Director of the Emporia Recreation Commission, effective January 1, 2025, as I prepare to pursue new opportunities in the field of parks and recreation across Kansas.
After nearly four decades of service to the city of Empori and the Emporia School District, I reflect on the journey I’ve taken with a deep sense of fulfillment and pride. It has been an honor to collaborate with dedicated board members over the years, working together to enhance community programs and facilities. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to work alongside such an exceptional staff, a group I proudly refer to as the “Team of Champions.” Their dedication, talent and unwavering commitment has not only made our achievements possible together but have also inspired me daily. The daily interactions and friendships we’ve built will be deeply missed.
I would like to extend my deepest gratitude to my family, whose sacrifices and patience have been instrumental in allowing me to commit myself fully to this work over the years. Their unwavering support has been a constant source of strength and motivation, enabling me to meet the demands of this career with dedication and resilience. Through long hours, missed family events and countless late nights, they have stood by me with understanding and love. I am profoundly grateful for their encouragement, which has been the foundation of my journey and has made all my achievements possible.
To the Emporia community, I want to extend my sincere appreciation for the wonderful memories we’ve created together. The countless experiences we’ve shared over the years have left a lasting impact on my life and I will carry them with me as I move into this next chapter. While I eagerly look forward to the opportunities the future may bring, I will always treasure the moments, friendships and connections that have made my time here so meaningful. Thank you for allowing me to be a part of this incredible community.