Tempe is launching a new ranger program with 14 full-time, soon-to-be-hired employees who not only will enforce the rules but serve as ambassadors for the city’s parks, preserves and green spaces. The program, due to start this fall, was made possible as a result of a Tempe City Council-approved budget allocation for fiscal 2023-24.
Tempe’s strong financial position and favorable economic outlook has allowed for increased funding of programs and services to meet the needs of residents, say those who approved it. The program will reside within the Community Services Department. The city is asking for community input so that the program truly reflects the parks and neighborhoods where the rangers will be serving.
A public meeting will be held 6-7 p.m. Monday, July 24, in the lower level of the Tempe Public Library, 3500 S. Rural Road. An online survey is also available at tempe.gov/forum through July 31 for community members to submit feedback. As the program was envisioned, the rangers will provide resources and information, as well as education about park rules. They will have the ability to issue city citations, though they will not carry firearms, according to a city spokesperson. Their focus will be on education first. Rangers will use a service-oriented approach and be the community’s connection for information and questions. Tempe had a park ranger program many years ago, however it was discontinued during the Great Recession due to resulting budget cuts.
Now, the City Council has okayed bringing the program back with what are said to be adjustments and improvements to make the service even better. The newly hired rangers will be aimed at having a focused approach on building connection among community members and providing information about resources and services. Tempe is home to more than 50 neighborhood parks, community parks and preserves.
Positions for the park ranger program will be posted throughout July at tempe.gov/jobs. The city is seeking candidates who feel a passion for parks, want to build relationships among neighbors and can represent the wide diversity of the Tempe community. Information: tempe.gov/ ParkRangers.
