A Legacy of Transformation: Lee Jones' Trailblazing Journey with Mecklenburg County Park and Recreation

two photo group, children in a group looking at items on a table, and one child playing hopscotch

A Legacy of Transformation: Lee Jones’ Trailblazing Journey with Mecklenburg County Park and Recreation

After two decades of dedicated service, Lee Jones is retiring as director of Mecklenburg County Park and Recreation. In his last weeks in office, Jones spent a few minutes with us to reflect on a career marked by significant achievements, cultural shifts, and personal growth. His journey from an architect to a transformative leader in parks and recreation is a compelling narrative of adaptability, perseverance, and community impact.

*Photo Courtesy: Mecklenburg County Park and Recreation*

A Global Perspective

Jones’ early career was marked by diverse experiences that, quite literally, shaped his worldview. During his time at the University of Virginia, he had the opportunity to spend six months in Venice, Italy, where a chance encounter led to an unexpected opportunity to play professional basketball.

“I ran into Sidney Wicks, who used to play for UCLA and the Boston Celtics,” Jones reminisces. “He asked if I’d like to play on a team and get paid for it, and we said, ‘yeah, let’s do it!”

“Turns out, being paid 10,000 lire a game is like $9 a game,” he laughs, “so that was enough to cover our food, but it was a great experience”

And while that experience wasn’t exactly financially rewarding, it did provide a unique cultural exchange that Jones cherishes to this day.

Jones would eventually return to Charlottesville, where he would become the first person of color to graduate with a master’s of architecture degree from the University of Virginia.

Jones and his Italian basketball teammates— then and now. *Photo Courtesy: Lee Jones*

Navigating Career Transitions

Jones’ journey to Mecklenburg County was not without its challenges. After working in the private sector for a decade, including stints in London and New York, he faced a tough recession in the late 1980s before exploring opportunities in Charlotte.

“The Wall Street Journal put out an article that said the worst thing you can be in America right now is a 40-year-old architect,” Jones recounts. This economic downturn led him to pivot towards public sector work, eventually bringing him here.

Transforming Mecklenburg County Park and Recreation

Initially reluctant to take a position with the County, Jones soon saw the potential for impact. In 2018, he would eventually be hired as the department director. Under his leadership, the department saw remarkable growth and transformation. Key projects during his tenure include:

– Romare Bearden Park: Named after the renowned artist and Charlotte native, this park became a catalyst for urban development and community engagement. Jones worked closely with sculptor Richard Hunt on the park’s centerpiece, “Spiral Odyssey,” forging a meaningful connection to the art world.

Jones and the late artist, Richard Hunt; designer of the “Spiral Odyssey” sculpture at Romare Bearden Park.” *Photo Courtesy: Lee Jones*

– Regional Recreation Centers: Two new centers provided state-of-the-art facilities for residents, promoting health, wellness, and community activities.

– Greenway Expansion: Miles of new greenways were developed, enhancing connectivity and outdoor recreation opportunities for the county’s residents.

– Memorial Stadium Renovation: This historic venue was revitalized, preserving its legacy while modernizing its facilities.

Strengthening Partnerships

One of Jones’ significant achievements was the strengthening of partnerships, particularly with Partners for Parks. This relationship flourished under his leadership, expanding beyond Mecklenburg County to include work with other park and recreation departments.

“The partnership with Partners for Parks has grown substantially,” Jones notes. “They used to just be working with us as partners for Mecklenburg County Parks and Recreation, but they expanded that and work with other Park and Recreation departments. But at the same time, we still seem to be the hub and the original partner.”

Jones said this collaboration has been crucial in enhancing the department’s ability to serve the community and communicate about innovative programs and projects.

Championing Diversity and Inclusion

One of Jones’ most significant contributions has been fostering a culture of equity and inclusion within the department. When he first joined, there were few people of color or women in leadership positions. Jones made it a priority to change this.

“I really wanted to change the culture here to be more equitable and inclusive for everyone,” Jones explains. “Not just people of color, but anyone over here … for all people.”

Jones says these changes are reflective of the County Manager’s strategic plan and the diversity of Mecklenburg County.

“I didn’t do it all by myself, but I think that the change in culture in the department has really boosted morale. And I really feel that the department is at a point now that’s just great.”

A Lasting Legacy

As Jones prepares for retirement, he looks back on his career with pride and gratitude. His efforts have not only transformed the physical landscape of Mecklenburg County but also its cultural and organizational fabric.

“This has been the best job I’ve ever had,” Jones reflects. “The accomplishments we’ve achieved as a team, the partnerships we’ve built, especially with Partners for Parks, and the positive impact on the community are what I’m most proud of.”

Jones’ impact extends beyond Mecklenburg County. He notes that other park and recreation directors across the state frequently seek his advice and insights, a testament to the department’s success under his leadership and the strong partnerships he has fostered.

Looking Ahead

In retirement, Jones says he plans to stay active and engaged. He looks forward to traveling, playing golf, exploring, and spending time with family. He also plans to revisit Italy, reconnecting with former teammates from his brief basketball career.

“I want to enjoy life and all it has to offer,” Jones says. “There’s so much to do, you know, and just enjoy that. That’s what I really want to do.”

Lee Jones’ story is a testament to the power of adaptability, perseverance, and a commitment to making a difference. From his groundbreaking achievement at the University of Virginia to his transformative leadership in Mecklenburg County, Jones has truly left a legacy on the community he’s served.