Manatee County merges natural resources, parks departments

Ed Hunzeker, Manatee County administrator, announced today the merger of the Parks and Recreation department and the Natural Resources Department. 

The new department will be called the Parks and Natural Resources Department and it will be headed by Charles Hunsicker, Manatee's Natural Resources Department director. 

All programming, athletic leagues and recreational opportunities will remain the same under the new department. 

"Under Charlie's leadership, we will accomplish a truly global view of the recreational amenities needed to serve our growing community at a critical time as we implement the How Will We Grow plan," Hunzeker said.

Nick Azzara, county information outreach coordinator, said the merger will create greater efficiencies by bringing together two departments which formerly shared responsibilities for several areas, including beaches, boat ramps and other outdoor recreational opportunities. 

It is unclear what staffing changes will occur with the new organization. 

Contact Josh Siegel at [email protected].