“Five Rivers MetroParks is a tremendous community asset to the Dayton region, and I look forward to serving the community while ensuring MetroParks’ long-term success,” Saunders said.
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Saunders joins the three-member Board of Park Commissioners, which currently includes President Alan F. Pippenger and Vice President Karen L. Davis. A health care professional and community volunteer, Davis has served since 1996; Pippenger, president of Requarth Lumber, joined the board in 2004.
A University of Dayton graduate, Saunders earned a bachelor’s degree in public relations and a master’s in public administration.
Bieser, a retired partner with the law firm Bieser Greer Attorneys at Law, served almost 20 years as parks commissioner.
He participated in multiple park improvements and conservation efforts including an addition to Germantown MetroPark, prairie restorations and adding recreational opportunities on local rivers.
“A strong parks system is making the whole community stronger, and the strength and reputation helps the whole region,” Bieser said.
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Bieser said he is particularly proud to have helped connect people to the rivers through RiverScape MetroPark and RiverScape River Run, projects that also helped rejuvenate downtown Dayton.
“These permanent enhancements are something we can all be proud of,” he said.
Bieser also served as president of the board of the Nature Conservatory of Ohio.
The park system includes 18 parks as well as a number conservation areas, the 2nd Street Public Market and 150 miles of regional trails.
MORE: Former Trotwood golf course to be converted to park
By Ohio law, the park system is governed by a three-person volunteer board appointed by the probate judge of Montgomery County. The board is responsible for overseeing funds, establishing rules and regulations as well as approving development plans and land acquisitions. Commissioners serve three-year terms and can be reappointed to successive terms.
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