City of Columbia names new parks and recreation director

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

The City of Columbia on Tuesday announced Gabe Huffington as its new parks and recreation director, according to a press release.

Huffington -- who has been the acting director of the department since April-- will begin Dec. 25. He will be sworn into the position at the next City Council meeting on Jan. 17. 

Huffington has worked in the department including golf and sports supervisor, park services manager and assistant director. He has a master’s degree in business administration, bachelor’s degree in business administration and an associate degree in turf and landscape management.

"I am extremely grateful for the opportunity to lead the Parks and Recreation department with the City of Columbia and look forward to continuing to work with our community to improve the quality of life for our citizens," Huffington said in a press release. "I have spent the past 14 years with the department and am excited to continue to work with our team to provide outstanding parks, trails, programs and special events throughout Columbia."

The Columbia park system includes 3,554 acres, 77 parks, 12 indoor recreation facilities, two golf courses, eight aquatic facilities and 62.45 miles of trails.