Lindsay Hart, who has twice served as interim director of the City of Lawrence’s Parks, Recreation and Culture, has been named to the permanent position, the city announced Friday.
Hart first served in the interim role in December 2023 until former director Luis Ruiz started in his position in May 2024. Hart was again named to the interim role after Ruiz left the city in October.
Hart said in the city’s news release that the two interim stints have only strengthened her commitment to the staff, community “and the important work we do every day.”
“I am passionate about the future of Parks, Recreation and Culture, and I look forward to implementing our new Master Plan while continuing to build on the strong foundation our team has created together,” Hart said in the release.
City Manager Majed Al-Ghafry, who just recently began his work with the city, said in the release that Hart had demonstrated steady leadership, operational expertise and a collaborative approach.
“Her appointment ensures continued stability for the team, which is one of my top priorities,” Al-Ghafry said in the release.
Hart has worked with the city since November 2021.
“Hart brings 22 years of municipal parks and recreation leadership experience to the role, including overseeing multimillion-dollar budgets, managing complex facilities and leading large, diverse teams,” according to the release. “Her experience spans strategic planning, organizational leadership, community partnerships and the daily work of supporting employees who deliver essential services to residents.”
The city also announced Friday that Joe Hardy, who has served as interim chief of Lawrence-Douglas County Fire Medical since December 2024, has been named to the permanent role. The two permanent roles have been long vacant as the city waited for the new city manager to take the helm.
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