New Orleans Recreation Development’s top leader is stepping down after nearly a decade in the position.
CEO Larry Barabino announced his resignation to spend more time with family.
Tuesday’s meeting drew in extra attention as neighbors shared concerns about needles at a Mid-City park.
“It’s time for a lot of upgrades and renovations to our playground,” said Morgan Clevenger.
The state of Comiskey Park is top of mind for some neighbors.
“It’s not safe, it’s not safe for the average citizen,” said Clevenger.
The life-long New Orleanian is disheartened to learn needles, trash, and alcohol bottles are an issue one Mid-City park is still dealing with, after several efforts to clean it up.
“Drug use in a space that is supposed to be safe and supposed to be for children and to find relaxation, exercise and to find community,” said Clevenger.
Inside council chambers Tuesday evening, city leaders did not provide an immediate solution, but did say they are working to improve all parks, but the budget deficit is just part of the problem.
“It’s easy to say what is needed and you not act on it. But it’s difficult to see a problem and not go in there to solve it… We need volunteers at these parks,” said Councilman Freddie King.
The concerns come as NORD’S CEO Larry Barabino Jr. shared his resignation, stepping down to spend more time with his three grandchildren.
“I have enjoyed every moment of it, the good, the bad, the ups and the downs,” said Larry Barabino Jr.
Natasha Robinson was appointed as interim CEO. Neighbors say they hope the next CEO follows in Barabino’s footsteps and is committed to improving their parks.
“The next leader also has to be an expert in figuring out how to really analyze the budget, and make sure the allocation of resources is going where it needs to go,” said Clevenger.
READ MORE:NORD appoints interim CEO, after long-time leader steps down
