This department provides a variety of services to all sectors of our community on a year-round basis. The department’s resources are channeled through three main areas: Programs, Buildings and Grounds, Maintenance and Cemeteries/Downtown Appearance. The department’s programs staff combines a variety of more than (10-20) instructional classes, special events, and (7) major organized athletic activi
ties to reach the broadest number of Newton residents. The buildings/grounds maintenance staff ensures the optimum upkeep and cleanliness of the majority of the City’s various properties, which include (6) parks, which are located in the Northside, Southside, Westside, Jacob Fork Park, Little Brook mini park, Central/East Newton, swimming pool and a 3-1 greenways trail, (2) centers, (1) community building, City Hall and the Newton Train Depot. The cemetery staff see to the ground’s care and organization of the (3) cemeteries, a living tree memorial program located at various sites around the city, downtown hanging baskets and large vases with plantings. It is through these areas that the department contributes the totality of its efforts to improve community life. Aside from these direct contributions, the department maintains close ties to various city committees and in so doing, provides additional services. The department supports the Newton Appearance Commission, Festival and Events Committee, City Tree Board, Human Relations Committee, and the Parks and Recreation Commission. The department’s buildings/grounds superintendent serves as the safety coordinator and conducts safety programs throughout the year for department employees. In addition to all these duties, the department receives advice and recommendations from the Parks and Recreation Commission, which oversees interpretation of programs, facilities, services, and studies which help advance park and recreation services. The Newton Parks and Recreation has demonstrated an extensive and laborious commitment to not only the recreation needs of the community, but to its civic needs as well.
