March 4, 2023
Joe Snook, Administrator, Lee’s Summit Parks and Recreation Department, was honored with the Missouri Park and Recreation Association’s highest honor, Fellow Award, at their annual conference on February 16, 2023 in Lake Ozark, MO.
Since 2001, Joe has served the Lee’s Summit community, first as the Superintendent of Recreation Services and later Assistant Administrator, then eventually Administrator for their parks and recreation department. While serving in the Superintendent role, Joe implemented the “FISH” philosophy customer service model. This model was later implemented city-wide and remains a core training component for all new staff.
In July 2007, as the Assistant Administrator he was assigned the project lead for the design and construction of the $4.75 million multi-generational center. He led the department’s efforts to the successful passage (78%) of a sales tax referendum to provide over $55 million for capital projects through 2033 and assisted with the department’s NRPA national accreditation in 2003 and Gold Medal Application in 2010.
Since January 2018, he has faithfully served as Administrator where he oversees 48 full-time, over 300 part-time staff, and countless volunteers. He continues to invest in the staff to reach their fullest potential, by giving them a foundation to succeed.
When not fully engaged in his paying job, Joe has served in various roles for MPRA: Conference Program Chair, Co-Chair of Facility Design and Management School, Municipal Section President, Secretary/Treasurer, Study and Research Committee Chair, and Regent Chair of the Leadership Development Institute. He has presented many times at the conference over the years.
The Missouri Park and Recreation Fellow Award is given to one member of the association each year. The recipient must have at least 10 years of experience as a leader, instructor, supervisor, director, administrator, or a combination of same in the field of recreation and/or parks and must be certified by a certifying board recognized in the field of parks, recreation and leisure services. They must also contribute to the association and display distinctive and innovative leadership. For more details, the MPRA Awards code can be found at https://www.mopark.org/conference.
