Director of Spokane Parks & Recreation Garrett Jones helped launch and advocate for the voter approved Together Spokane initiative, a $200 million Spokane Public Schools bond and a $240 million Parks & Recreation levy — aimed at maximizing efficiency and leveraging shared resources to accomplish more than 200 projects throughout the Spokane community.

Through his first job as a greenskeeper at Suncadia Resort in Cle Elum, Washington, Jones would develop an interest in landscape design, eventually working for the city of Spokane in a variety of roles, including park planning designer and landscape architect, interim city administrator, and director of parks and recreation.

Education: Bachelor’s degree in landscape architecture, Washington State University.

Who do you turn to for professional inspiration or mentorship? My grandpa has always been my guiding force and someone I aspire to be like. He has taught me to be true to who I am as a person, build and maintain relationships, and value the importance of family, whether it is your family at home or your work family.

Why did you choose your career path? To be a part of a team that impacts the Spokane community in a positive way, from youth to seniors.

What is a major professional accomplishment you’re proud of? There are many professional accomplishments I am proud of, from a playground replacement, the Riverfront Park redevelopment, to the Together Spokane Initiative. The biggest accomplishments have been strengthening partnerships and seeing the community and families enjoying our outdoor spaces.