The Pickaway County Park District is pleased to announce the appointment of Arista Hartzler as its new Executive Director, effective January 1, 2024. Arista will be succeeding Tom Davis, who has admirably served the District for the past seven years and played a pivotal role in achieving significant milestones during his tenure.
Under Davis’s leadership, the Pickaway County Park District achieved remarkable accomplishments, notably the successful passage of the District’s first levy. This funding injection facilitated crucial projects, including the construction of the Roundtown Trail and paving of the initial mile and a half of the Pickaway Trail, the acquisition of Metzger Preserve, the development of Canal Park and its playground, the construction of the Ohio Erie Canal bridge connecting over the Pickaway Trail, the establishment of the first public river access site on Big Darby Creek, and the acquisition of the former Cooks Creek Golf Course.
As Davis retires, the District is confident in the seamless transition to Arista Hartzler, who has been an integral part of the organization since 2018. Serving as the former Deputy Director, Arista brings a wealth of experience, dedication, and a deep understanding of the local community’s needs. A proud alumna of Ohio University and a native of Pickaway County, Arista is poised to continue the legacy of providing exceptional outdoor recreation opportunities for the residents.
“I am honored and excited to take on the role of Executive Director for the Pickaway County Park District,” said Arista Hartzler. “I am committed to building on the successes of my predecessor and leading the District towards new heights. Our focus will remain on enhancing outdoor experiences for the community, and I look forward to collaborating with our dedicated board and staff , community partners and the residents we serve.”
Looking ahead, Arista Hartzler has outlined several upcoming projects, including the continued development of the Pickaway Trail, the transformation of the former Cooks Creek golf course into a new preserve, featuring the new District Headquarters and Nature center, and further enhancements at Canal Park and the Pickaway Trail. The District is enthusiastic about the future under Arista’s leadership and anticipates continued growth and success in serving the recreational needs of Pickaway County
