Richardson parks and recreation director set to retire in June
Published: Tue, 01/17/23
Richardson parks and recreation director set to retire in June
Lori Smeby, director of Richardson's Parks and Recreation Department, joined the city in 2015.
(Courtesy city of Richardson)
Community Impact
By Kevin Cummings
Updated
In a role that involves overseeing nearly 1,000 acres of parkland and more than 90 miles of trails in the city, Smeby’s tenure included the construction of the Ann Eisemann Inclusive Playground, the expansion of the Spring Creek Nature Area and the creation of Pawtoberfest.
“Leaving a position and career like this can only be bittersweet, and I am so proud of the men and women with whom I’ve had the opportunity to work,” Smeby said in a statement. “We have been a part of some tremendous projects together, and I leave feeling blessed to have been part of such a dedicated team of people who truly make a difference.”
Before joining the city of Richardson, Smeby had worked in other local parks and recreation departments, including with the cities of Arlington, Grapevine and Allen.
The parks and recreation department said it is still developing a succession plan, which it will unveil at a “future date.”
“Lori has been an innovative, committed leader, helping us elevate our parks and recreation amenities and services to a superior level,” Richardson City Manager Don Magner said in a statement. “Lori has accomplished much during her tenure, including creating a culture focused on customer service and quality programming.”