Outgoing Great Bend Recreation Commission board chairperson Bruce Hofeling was recognized at Monday’s meeting for his years of dedicated service to the board. Executive Director Diann Henderson said she is grateful for Hofeling’s dedication.
“I know it takes time dedicated to providing public recreation service and Bruce has done an outstanding job for the commission and for the public,” Henderson said.
Hofeling served a total of 16 years over two separate tenures on the GBRC board. Hofeling began as a City of Great Bend appointee on Jan. 1, 2005, and served until Dec. 31, 2012. After taking two years off, Hofeling returned to the board in January of 2014, and served until the end of his term on Dec. 31, 2021. Because the Rec board is a term-limited position, Hofeling was not eligible to serve another four-year term. Hofeling has served as the board’s chairperson for about the last four years.
Henderson described Hofeling as a “progressive forward thinker,” who helped guide the board through several major improvement projects during his tenure.
Hofeling, reflecting on his time with the board, was grateful for the work the board has done for the community during his tenure.
“(The board is) a very proactive group,” Hofeling said. “If a project is good for the Recreation Commission and good for the community ... we act on it and we move forward. We’ve always been very proactive about anything that’s good for the community.
“I’ve worked with a lot of really good people on the board and everyone that is a part of the Rec Commission. It’s always been a really good group.”
Hofeling was honored to be recognized by the board for his years of service.
“With any volunteer position, it’s nice to be appreciated,” Hofeling said.
Stepping into Hofeling’s role as chairperson will be board member Andrea Bauer, after the board elected new officers for 2022. Bauer said she is looking forward to filling the role.
“The Great Bend Rec Commission works tirelessly to both enhance and create new recreation opportunities for our community,” Bauer said. “I’m honored to serve as the new chairperson and to be part of the positive momentum. In the years ahead we’ll continue to enrich lives through parks, playgrounds, and programs that bring the community together.”
Dr. Jon Pike was appointed as vice-chairperson and Sue Cooper was appointed as board secretary. Newly appointed board member Randy Goering fills Hofeling’s seat on the board, effective Jan. 1.
Great Bend Recreation Commission board meeting at a glance:
Here’s a quick look at what the GBRC board did Monday:
• Assistant Director Chris Umphres advised the board that the Great Bend Sports Complex turf installation project has been completed. A ribbon cutting is scheduled for Feb. 17.
• New officers were appointed for 2022, including chairperson Andrea Bauer, vice-chairperson Dr. Jon Pike and secretary Sue Cooper.
• Recognized outgoing chairperson Bruce Hofeling for 16 years of service on the Rec Commission board.
• The 2022 GBRC board calendar was presented.
• The board received annual conflict of interest disclosure forms for completion.
• Umphres provided a timeline for spring sports and activities.
• The board heard department regular updates from Umphres, Aquatics and Enrichment Director Megan Hammeke, Enrichment and Activity Center Director Garet Fitzpatrick and Executive Director Diann Henderson.
