Madison - Mayor Dave Cieslewicz today nominated Kevin Briski to serve as the new Parks Superintendent for the City of Madison. Briski would succeed Jim Morgan who retired from the post in January. Information Technology Director Dick Grasmick has been leading the agency on an interim basis since then.

"Kevin has extensive leadership experience with parks departments throughout the nation," said Mayor Cieslewicz. "He has been an able manager and a good leader in his prior positions. Most importantly, Kevin is passionate about the stewardship of parklands and natural resources. This was not an easy decision, given the very high-quality candidates we had to choose from." The other finalist for the position was Si Widstrand, a well-respected and talented Madison Parks Division leader.

Briski's experience in the field of parks and recreation is broad and deep. He has been a Director of Parks and Recreation since 1985, first in Berlin, Wisconsin; then in Monroe County, Indiana; in East Chicago, Indiana; in Flint, Michigan; and currently in Escambia County, Florida. Briski is a native Wisconsinite, graduating from Oconomowoc High School and from the UW - LaCrosse, with a degree in Parks Management. He also earned a masters degree in Public Administration from Indiana University. Briski has been married to his wife Susie for 15 years and has one daughter.

In addition to extensive parks systems, Briski has successfully run golf courses, pedestrian/bike trails, sports complexes, baseball stadiums, pools, botanical gardens, greenhouses, marinas, community centers, campgrounds, and an equestrian center. He has extensive experience generating grant funds and private donations to support community parks and recreation.

"I am very excited to serve the residents of Madison," said Briski. "I look forward to working with the dedicated staff and the numerous groups that have a high regard for parks, recreation and the associated quality of life."

Briski's nomination is subject to confirmation by the Common Council. He is expected to start in late June.