The Town of Coaldale welcomes new Director of Recreation and Community Services

Posted on September 8, 2020 by Sunny South News

The Town of Coaldale is eager to introduce Russ Tanner as its new Director of Recreation and Community Services. As Coaldale continues to grow, the need to build the internal capacity required to effectively respond to community needs and opportunities has become increasingly important.

“We are elated to introduce someone of Russ’ caliber to the organization. Building on the great work that has already been done in the area of community services, we are confident that Russ’ impressive track record and expertise will help take us to the next level,” said Kalen Hastings, the Town’s Chief Administrative Officer.

Coaldale has not had a fulltime, dedicated Director of Recreation and Community Services since 2013. Filling this position will help the Town achieve several milestones, including but not limited to: construction of the Multi-Use Recreation Facility, collaboration with the arena enhancement working group for a second sheet of ice, and continuing to have ongoing discussions about the future of aquatics in Coaldale.

Tanner is highly regarded throughout the province for his efficient and prudent approach to management and community programming, making him a natural fit for the position. He has an impressive background specializing in management and recreation and has worked for multiple southern Alberta communities, most recently as the Manager of Recreation and Facility Services for the City of Brooks. Tanner was an instrumental part of bringing several notable capital projects to completion throughout his career, including:

• Duke of Sutherland Water Park;

• JBS Canada Centre; and

• Centennial Regional Arena

“I want residents to take pride in the facilities and programs offered in their community,” said Tanner. “I’ve stuck to the municipal path throughout my career because I like being able to help cultivate a community identity and tie both the physical and mental aspects of healthy living into the fabric.”

Tanner is excited to work closely with Cindy Hoffman, Manager of Community Services at the Town of Coaldale, to evaluate existing recreational facilities and services to find ways to maximize efficiencies of current programming and to provide additional services to the community that work within the current models and strategies. Tanner and Hoffman will form an excellent duo, dividing and conquering the work effectively to make sure Coaldale can cultivate high quality services that our community groups deserve while taking on large-scale projects that support Coaldale’s long-term growth and development.

“I look forward to joining Coaldale’s sport and recreation community both personally and professionally,” said Tanner. “For me, it’s not just about doing the job but also becoming a part of the community.”

Tanner is expected to start on September 14. The Town looks forward to officially welcoming him on board.