Carroll County, July 28, 2025
News Summary
Carroll County introduces Kent Johnston as its new parks director, bringing over 30 years of experience in park management and community service. His expertise in horticulture, trail development, and park management highlights his commitment to enhancing local parks and recreational spaces. With initiatives like the Carrollton GreenBelt and nature trails, Johnston is set to make a significant impact, promising an exciting future for the community.
Exciting News for Carroll County: A New Parks Director Steps Up
Carroll County is buzzing with excitement as it welcomes Kent Johnston as its new parks director. This decision was announced recently by the Board of Commissioners Chairman, Michelle Morgan, and it marks a significant change in leadership for the local parks and recreation scene. With a promising future ahead, the community can be optimistic about what’s in store.
A Wealth of Experience
Kent Johnston isn’t new to the parks department; in fact, he has dedicated a remarkable 30 years of his career to the Carrollton Parks and Recreation Department. For 27 of those years, he served as the superintendent of parks, and for the last three, he took on the role of parks director. His extensive background makes him a well-qualified choice for this position.
Holding a Bachelor of Science degree in Ornamental Horticulture from the University of Georgia, Kent’s expertise lies in several critical areas, including horticulture, trail development, and park management. His commitment to excellence in landscaping is evident, as he has been recognized as a Georgia Certified Landscape Professional since 2003. Over the years, he has also earned accolades as a Certified Arborist and a Playground Safety Inspector, demonstrating his comprehensive understanding of safe and enjoyable outdoor spaces.
Leading Community Initiatives
One of Johnston’s most notable contributions has been his role in the creation and maintenance of the Carrollton GreenBelt since it launched in 2011. This vital project has provided many residents with beautiful walking, jogging, and biking trails that connect various neighborhoods and parks throughout the area.
In addition to the GreenBelt, he has successfully developed over three miles of multi-use nature trails in Carrollton Parks. Johnston has also contributed significantly to the establishment of nature trails at the University of West Georgia, fostering a love for the great outdoors among students and community members alike.
Kent’s impact isn’t limited to just trail development. His leadership as president and founding board member of Keep Carroll Beautiful demonstrates his dedication to not only the parks but also to the overall beautification of Carroll County. He has overseen numerous facility developments and renovations, transforming the local landscape for everyone to enjoy.
Family and Personal Interests
Kent Johnston and his wife, Kelly, have called the west Georgia area home for over 30 years. Their roots run deep in the community as their two sons, Logan and Luke, grew up in the region. Logan has gone on to graduate from the University of West Georgia and the Georgia State University Law School and is now practicing law right in Carrollton. Meanwhile, Luke is currently attending Kennesaw State University and is delving into the world of computer technology.
Outside of work, Kent enjoys spending time with his family, exploring parks and trails through activities like mountain biking and hiking. His love for the outdoors shines through in his enthusiasm for enhancing the parks in Carroll County, and he is eager to help create even more natural spaces for the community to enjoy.
Looking Ahead
With Kent at the helm, Carroll County can look forward to exciting improvements and enhancements in its recreational offerings. The combination of his experience, passion for the environment, and dedication to community service promises a flourishing future for local parks and open spaces.
FAQs
Who is Kent Johnston?
Kent Johnston is the newly appointed parks director for Carroll County, bringing over 30 years of experience in park management and community service.
What qualifications does Kent Johnston have?
He holds a Bachelor of Science in Ornamental Horticulture and is a Georgia Certified Landscape Professional, along with previous certifications as a Certified Arborist and Playground Safety Inspector.
What contributions has he made to local parks?
Johnston has played a crucial role in the development of the Carrollton GreenBelt and numerous nature trails in the area, along with spearheading various beautification projects.
What are his personal interests?
Kent enjoys mountain biking and hiking, often spending time outdoors with his family, engaging with the natural beauty of the parks he oversees.
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HERE Resources
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Jason Batt Set to Leave Georgia Tech for Michigan State
Additional Resources
- Times Georgian: Johnston Named County Parks Director
- Wikipedia: Parks and Recreation
- Baltimore Sun: Thousands in State Funds for Carroll County Parks
- Google Search: Carroll County Parks improvements
- Carroll County Comet: Family Donation to Improve Riley Park
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Landscape Architecture
- WBAL TV: Copper Wire Thefts at Athletic Fields
- Google News: Copper Wire Theft Carroll County
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