Gainesville Parks and Recreation again named best in state

JEKYLL ISLAND - The Georgia Recreation and Park Association has once again named Gainesville Parks and Recreation the Agency of the Year. The award was presented Thursday night at the association's annual conference at Jekyll Island.<br /> <br /> This is the 11th time over the last 15 years that Gainesville has won the honor in the association's 20,000-50,000 population category.<br /> <br /> &#8203;The agency was cited for its strategic planning, strong operations, programming, services, community partnerships and continued development of green space. <br /> <br /> Director Melvin Cooper said the award "represents our continued dedication to playing a vital role in Gainesville's quality of life and the health and well-being of our residents."<br /> <br /> &#8203;Gainesville Parks and Recreation is one of only 136 nationally accredited parks and recreation agencies in the country.