Kelly Gonzalez has more than 23 years of experience in public service, administration, and parks and recreation.
The City of Folsom announces the selection of Kelly Gonzalez as its next Parks & Recreation Director, effective May 8. Gonzalez brings more than 23 years of experience in public service, administration, and parks and recreation.
Gonzalez will oversee the operations of 48 parks, over 50 miles of paved trails, facilities, and recreation programs. She will manage current and future park development initiatives and serve as an advisor to the Folsom Parks & Recreation Commission. She will oversee the department’s 48 full-time and 200+ seasonal employees.
“Kelly joins our leadership team with a wealth of experience in parks, recreation, leadership, and administration, as well as a proven track record of cultivating a strong sense of community,” said City Manager Elaine Andersen. “I am confident Kelly’s leadership and expertise will serve the Folsom community extremely well by providing abundant opportunities to learn, play, grow, and do.”
Gonzalez served as a division head for the Cosumnes Community Services District for the past 16 years in both the Administration and Parks and Recreation Departments. The Cosumnes CSD serves a population of over 200,000 residents in South Sacramento County and provides emergency medical service, fire protection, parks, and recreation services.
Her senior leadership roles included Director of Administration, Director of Business and Public Affairs, Superintendent of Recreation and Community Services, Management Analyst, and Recreation Manager. Gonzalez’s experience consists of facilitating the budget process, policy development, revenue generation, public affairs, facilities operations, program development, long-term planning, and building sustainable parks and recreation systems.
Gonzalez was instrumental in the development and implementation of multiple parks and recreation master plans and strategic plans. Under her service areas of responsibility, Cosumnes CSD has been recognized for several award-winning programs, events, facilities, community outreach, and marketing efforts.
Gonzalez has worked to develop multiple partnerships for nonprofit, private, and governmental agencies. She recently served on the project team with the City of Elk Grove facilitating community engagement to prioritize services that will enhance the quality of life for all residents in Elk Grove.
“I am honored to have been selected to serve the community of Folsom by providing high-quality facilities and recreational opportunities,” said Gonzalez. “Parks and recreation are an integral part of the health and vitality of a thriving community.”
Gonzalez holds a bachelor’s degree in recreation administration from California State University, Sacramento, and holds certification as a Parks and Recreation Professional from the National Recreation and Park Association. Gonzalez is a member of the California Parks and Recreation Society and the National Recreation and Park Association. She has volunteered in leadership positions in the Sacramento region, advocating for quality-of-life services. In her time at Cosumnes CSD, Gonzalez also served as a champion for the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee.
Outgoing Parks & Recreation Director Lorraine Poggione retired April 28 after serving the City of Folsom for 21 years, the last five as director.
The Folsom Parks & Recreation Department’s mission is to establish and maintain facilities, parks, and services that enhance the quality of life for all ages, cultural origins, and abilities. As stewards of the public trust, it is the department’s purpose to reflect on the changing human service needs of our community.
For more information about Folsom Parks & Recreation Department, visit the departmentwebsite.