City names James Gossett as Parks & Recreation Director

Published on December 16, 2021

Mayor Battle appointed James Gossett as the City’s new Director of Parks & Recreation. Gossett, Huntsville’s Recreation Superintendent, has years of leadership experience in the department.

“James is committed to the robust direction we are taking Parks & Recreation, and I have full confidence in his ability to lead us into the future,” Battle said.

“I am humbled and grateful to Mayor Battle for the opportunity to lead the Parks and Recreation Department,” Gossett said. “Our mission is “to improve the quality of life for Huntsville residents through safe recreational and cultural opportunities that inspire all people to participate, discover and strengthen our community. I look forward to bringing creative ideas, new trends that enhance our recreational and cultural opportunities for our residents.”

Gossett replaces outing Parks & Recreation Director Bernita Reese, who is leaving to lead the Parks & Recreation Department in Columbus, Ohio. Reese had previously worked as a recreation manager in Columbus before taking the Huntsville position earlier this year.

“We stole Bernita from Columbus and now they’ve stolen her back,” Mayor Tommy Battle said. “Bernita has done an amazing job setting a vision for our Parks & Recreation department and has set a high bar for the future. While we hate to see her go, we wish her the very best.”

In the short time Reese was with the City of Huntsville, she made a significant impact on the scope and vitality of programming inside recreation centers. Her afterschool care was particularly helpful to families as children returned to in-person learning during the pandemic.

Gossett said he’s committed to the vision set forth by Parks & Recreation department to enhance programming, activities and facilities across the City.