INTRODUCTION note from Nicole

As with most public service agencies, our employees are our greatest resource. In 2022, we continued recovering from the impacts of COVID. At times, we had over 20% of our full-time positions vacant while at the same time our program participation and facility visitations increased. Zero programs were eliminated this year and our recreation division staff once again stepped up and worked additional hours to ensure that all services continued. I want to thank our team for their creative ideas, teamwork, encouragement and support they gave to each other as our Recreation Division continued to meet the needs of the community.

Community demand and service growth is a theme throughout this report. It is evident in many ways, most notably in our 40% cost recovery of budgeted expenses including the cost of personnel. This and other noted accomplishments represent only a small percentage of what our team accomplished this year.

I would like to thank all of our Gulf Shores Recreation Division staff, Grant Brown - Director of Recreation and Cultural Affairs, the Gulf Shores City Council, and Mayor Craft for all they do. We would not have accomplished so much without their unwavering support.

Finally, I want to say thank you to every member, facility and park visitor, program and event participant. I meet people every day who are passionate about these beautiful places, facilities and programs. We appreciate your commitment to us, and in return we look forward to providing you with another great year filled with programming and adventures.

Nicole Ard Recreation Division Manager City of Gulf Shores

Mission Statement

"Gulf Shores Recreation & Cultural Affairs enriches lives and fosters harmony within the community through area-wide leisure services targeted to improve healthy lifestyles, educational and recreational opportunities, public participation, and environmental and economical stewardship."

RESPONSIBILITIES & SERVICES

The Recreation & Cultural Affairs Department provides top quality recreation and leisure activities for the community while striving to be the best stewards of the public resources that fall within the department's care, adapting as necessary to meet the varied needs of the residents and visitors.

Recreation Division Core Values

Community Enrichment

Enabling lives through education and programs

Civic Responsibility

As public servants, striving to better the world around us

Fun

Delivering fun to patrons and community

Exceptional Customer Experiences

Providing service that is responsive, professional, courteous, and accountable

Health and Wellness

Providing and promoting healthy lifestyle opportunities

Diversity and Inclusion

Creating programs and services that reflect the diversity of our community

Safety

Ensuring safe and secure environments

Building a Legacy

Maintaining a vision for the future while sustaining a healthy recreation system