Parks & Recreation Director Resigns for New Position

Yet another department head is leaving the City of Ames.

Ames Parks and Recreation Director Nancy Carroll announced in a release this week that Carroll will take a new job as director of fund development for BILD International, a non-profit organization in Ames that trains church leaders around the world.

Carroll's last day with the Parks Department is Jan. 31.

Ames City Attorney Doug Marek, the former fire chief, an assistant city manager and the city's building official left in 2012.

Carroll has worked for the city since 1985.

Excerpts from the city's press release on the matter are below:

"After 28 years, leaving the City of Ames is an extremely difficult decision," Carroll said. "I love this job, my co-workers, the City leadership, and this community. I've been honored to be part of an organization that truly makes a difference in peoples' lives. Yet, I am excited because I love the ministry and I feel pulled to use the rest of my active years to help build and strengthen His kingdom as He continues to direct my life."

An Ames native, Carroll joined the City of Ames on April 15, 1985 as the aquatics supervisor. She was named Parks and Recreation Director in 1991. Before joining the City of Ames, Carroll worked in New Hampton and Waverly, Iowa. After nearly three decades with Parks & Recreation, Carroll said she was looking forward devoting her time, talent, and energy to BILD International and will remain in Ames.

City Manager Steve Schainker thanked Carroll for her years of service.

“During Nancy’s tenure, the Ames Parks and Recreation Department continually accomplished its mission of enriching the quality of life for Ames citizens. Nancy has played a critical role in developing many of the amenities we enjoy today including Ada Hayden Heritage Park, the Ames/ISU Ice Arena, and the Furman Aquatic Center. Her passion, leadership, enthusiasm, and commitment to customer service will be greatly missed, but I’m sure will serve her well in her new position.”