Towson, MD, January 21, 2026
Bryan Sheppard has been appointed as the acting director for Baltimore County’s Department of Recreation and Parks, following the retirement of the previous director, Bob Smith. Sheppard, who has over 15 years of experience in public recreation management, aims to maintain and enhance community engagement through various recreational programs. The county plans to search for a permanent director in the coming months, ensuring alignment with its vision for recreation and parks.
Baltimore County Appoints Bryan Sheppard as Acting Director of Recreation and Parks
TOWSON, MD — Baltimore County Executive Kathy Klausmeier has appointed Bryan Sheppard as the acting director of the Department of Recreation and Parks, effective immediately. This appointment follows the recent vacancy left by the previous director, Bob Smith, who has retired after serving in the role for several years.
Sheppard’s Background
Sheppard brings over 15 years of experience in public recreation management to the position. Prior to this appointment, he served as the deputy director of the Department of Recreation and Parks, where he was instrumental in overseeing various community programs and facilities. His leadership has been recognized for enhancing community engagement and expanding recreational opportunities across the county.
County Executive’s Statement
County Executive Klausmeier expressed confidence in Sheppard’s ability to lead the department during this transitional period. She emphasized the importance of maintaining the high standards of service and community involvement that the department is known for. Klausmeier highlighted Sheppard’s deep understanding of the department’s operations and his commitment to the community as key factors in his selection.
Next Steps
The county executive has outlined plans to conduct a comprehensive search for a permanent director in the coming months. The goal is to identify a candidate who aligns with the county’s vision for recreation and parks, ensuring the continued growth and success of community programs and facilities.
About the Department of Recreation and Parks
The Department of Recreation and Parks is dedicated to providing quality recreational programs, facilities, and services to Baltimore County residents. It plays a vital role in enhancing the quality of life by offering diverse activities that promote health, wellness, and community engagement.
Contact Information
For more information about the Department of Recreation and Parks or to inquire about upcoming programs and events, residents are encouraged to visit the department’s official website or contact their local community center.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who is Bryan Sheppard?
Bryan Sheppard is the newly appointed acting director of the Baltimore County Department of Recreation and Parks. He has over 15 years of experience in public recreation management and previously served as the deputy director of the department.
Why was Bryan Sheppard appointed as acting director?
Bryan Sheppard was appointed to fill the vacancy left by the retirement of Bob Smith, the previous director. His extensive experience and leadership within the department made him a suitable choice for this role.
What are the plans for a permanent director?
The county executive plans to conduct a comprehensive search for a permanent director in the coming months to ensure the department’s continued success and alignment with the county’s vision for recreation and parks.
How can residents get more information about the department’s programs?
Residents can visit the Department of Recreation and Parks’ official website or contact their local community center for information about upcoming programs and events.
Key Features of the Appointment
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| New Acting Director | Bryan Sheppard appointed as acting director of the Department of Recreation and Parks. |
| Previous Director | Bob Smith retired after several years of service in the role. |
| Sheppard’s Experience | Over 15 years in public recreation management; former deputy director of the department. |
| County Executive’s Confidence | Emphasis on Sheppard’s understanding of department operations and commitment to the community. |
| Search for Permanent Director | Plans to conduct a comprehensive search for a permanent director in the coming months. |
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