General Manager

As the General Manager of the Hayward Area Recreation and Park District, I am responsible for the overall operation of the District that provides recreation and park services to the residents of Ashland, Castro Valley, Cherryland, Fairview, Hayward, San Lorenzo and a section of the unincorporated area of San Leandro.

Most recently, I served as the District’s Recreation, Arts, and Community Services Director. For over 30 years, I have served the public in many capacities within the recreation and park profession. My experience includes coordination, supervision or management in the City and County of San Francisco, the cities of Oakland and Nevada City, the Greater Vallejo Recreation District, the Town of San Anselmo, and the City of San Ramon.

I have served on several professional boards and committees, including as Past President of the California Parks and Recreation Society (CPRS), and current Chair of the Board of Trustees for the California Foundation for Parks and Recreation. I am an active member of the National Recreation and Parks Association (NRPA) and other professional organizations. One of my greatest assets is my professional relationships with others in our field over time.  

H.A.R.D. is a tremendous organization with a great track record of serving the community. I am honored to have the opportunity to work with the many astounding people, traditions, cultures, and communities within the District. 

 In an effort to bring the best level of service possible, please do not hesitate to provide comments, suggestions, compliments, or issues that need our attention through Citizen Request Tracker located here on our website, and we will do our best to see to it that your needs are being met.

Documentation:

James Wheeler - Form 700