Houston City Controller Sylvia R. Garcia today released a performance review of the City’s Parks and Recreation Department. The review, performed by the City Controller and Empirical Management Services, revealed many noteworthy practices and provides approximately 60 recommendations to improve management and operations.

In addition, suggestions have been made which would enhance customer satisfaction and attract more visitors to the City’s parks and other recreation facilities. Controller Garcia praises PARD director Oliver Spellman saying, "We have seen tremendous improvements in the Parks and Recreation Department since Mr. Spellman came on board last April. We feel confident that, based on our auditors’ reports, this improvement will continue."

Among the areas under review were Recreation and Field Operations, Planning and Facility Management, Procurement Services and Information Technology Services. Auditors have suggested the outsourcing of certain services as a possible means of saving more than $1.2 million over the next five years.

The performance review of PARD operations is the second phase of a three-part performance review outlined in the City Controller’s audit plan. Phase one consisted of a review of the City’s Youth Sports Program and the third phase will include the zoo, City golf courses and tennis centers.

Says Garcia, "We have just begun the final phase in our audit of the Parks and Recreation Department. I am looking forward to working with Mr. Spellman and his team to give our taxpayers a complete picture of this very important City department."