Meet Orangevale Recreation & Park District, also known as OVparks, an Independent Special
District in the community of Orangevale within the unincorporated area of Sacramento County.
SCERS spoke with Greg Foell, District Administrator and SCERS member for 10 years.

Describe what you do.

I work with the Board of Directors and a great staff to provide the best park facilities and recreation programs for the community of Orangevale. We’re a midsized district with approximately 35,000 residents and 13 fulltime staff, taking care of more than 150 acres of park land and outstanding recreation facilities
such as a community center, activity building, youth center, Kidz Korner preschool house, a swimming pool and a world recognized Disc Golf Course.

What makes OVparks a great place to work?

In a small district environment, you have the opportunity to participate in all aspects of serving the community.

This includes property purchases, finance, working with an elected board of directors, public outreach, working with volunteers and service clubs and participating at our special events periodically as the emcee. It is fun and rewarding work.

In your opinion, what makes special districts special?

Special Districts are a great form of local government that are close to constituents, residents and patrons; we can respond quickly and in a personal manner cater to specific needs.

Recently, we got a call from a resident who wanted better wheelchair access to a tennis court and within a few months we were able to get an accessible pathway built. That’s the kind of service we work to provide consistently in our recreation programs and facilities that I hope endear the District to our community.

It is also exceptional to have a Board of Directors that values and encourages community participation and input.

What should we visit in our next trip to Orangevale?

Come and enjoy a round of disc golf at the Shady Oaks Course or attend the 8th Annual Fright Night on October 18, a fun filled event well supported by community businesses, patrons and our entire team.