Mayor McDavid Honored by Missouri Park and Recreation Association

(COLUMBIA, MO) -

Columbia Mayor Bob McDavid was honored by the Missouri Park and Recreation Association (MPRA) with the 2016 Public Official Achievement Award. MPRA Executive Director Jan Neitzert presented a plaque to McDavid at the Columbia City Council meeting on Feb. 15. 

McDavid was honored for his active support of Columbia Parks and Recreation in the six years he has served as mayor. Only a few months after being elected in 2010, he campaigned for the renewal of the Park Sales Tax, speaking to numerous community organizations in support of the tax extension. When the Park Sales Tax came up for renewal in November 2015, he again spoke to community organizations, asking for their support.

McDavid has been a constant speaker at Columbia park and trail dedications and has always spoken favorably of the Parks and Recreation Department, helping to promote a positive image of the department to the community. In 2015, he proclaimed July as Parks and Recreation Month in the City of Columbia. McDavid is an avid trail user and has supported trail development in his role as mayor.

Columbia Parks and Recreation nominated McDavid for the Public Official Award, which was judged by a statewide panel in the parks and recreation field.  The MPRA Awards are given each year at the association's state conference. McDavid received his award during a special presentation at the City Council meeting, since he is unable to attend the Conference, which will be held Feb. 23-26 in Columbia.

About the Missouri Park and Recreation Association: The Missouri Park and Recreation Association, whose members work to provide opportunities for all state's citizens to enjoy quality leisure activities, is dedicated to promoting public support for parks and recreation and public awareness of the contribution of recreation to a balanced life. The association works to ensure the growth and improve the quality and accessibility of urban and rural parks, open spaces and recreation lands, facilities and programs for all Missourians. It promotes research and information dissemination on parks, conservation, recreation and leisure issues.