LB appoints new director of Parks, Recreation & Marine

The City of Long Beach has appointed Gerardo Mouet– who has served as the executive director for Santa Ana’s Parks, Recreation and Community Services Agency the last 14 years– as the new director of Parks, Recreation & Marine. Mouet brings 28 years of local government experience in various leadership positions, including overseeing parks, recreation and community services operations, human-resources administration and city-wide functions in budget development and contract administration, according to officials.
During his tenure, he has managed 50 parks, 17 recreation centers, the Santa Ana Zoo and the public library system. He took the lead in major department restructuring that resulted in merging the City of Santa Ana’s library services with the Parks and Recreation Agency, increasing efficiency and cost savings, according to Long Beach officials. He oversaw a budget of $24 million annually with 72 full-time employees and 350 part-time employees. He is also a member of the Orange County Fair and Event Center Board of Directors.
“Mr. Mouet has a wealth of expertise, having served in a similar capacity at a large urban municipality. He will be a great asset to the team as he has a proven track record of creative program development and general municipal management,” said Long Beach City Manager Patrick West. “We are excited to work with him to continue providing quality parks and services to our residents and those who visit our great city.”
The Parks, Recreation & Marine Department consists of more than 1,000 full-time and part-time employees with a budget of over $55 million that provides animal care services, marine and beach maintenance, and community recreation services.
“The Long Beach Parks, Recreation and Marine Department has a national reputation for providing outstanding quality services to the community. I am honored to be joining the entire City of Long Beach team to work hard and continue delivering excellent programs and services,” Mouet said. “It is exciting to be part of this dynamic community.”
Mouet holds a bachelor’s degree in political science from the University of California, San Diego.
He is replacing Stephen Scott, who filled the position on an interim basis and will return to his deputy director position in the Department of Parks, Recreation & Marine.
“It is without a doubt that Mr. Scott is a valued member of our team at the Parks, Recreation and Marine department,” West said. “I would like to thank him for stepping into the leadership role as interim director once again and for his continued service with the City.”
Mouet’s appointment will be effective June 18.
Source: City of LB