Pickaway County, OH – March 24, 2025 – The Pickaway County Park District Board of Commissioners is excited to announce the appointment of Craig Sanders as its new Executive Director, effective March 24, 2025. Sanders succeeds Arista Hartzler, who recently resigned from the position to focus on her family. Hartzler served the Park District for six years, with the last year as Executive Director, and made notable contributions during her tenure.
During her time as Director, Hartzler was instrumental in securing key grants for the Park District, including a $2 million TAP Grant to refurbish a historic bridge on the Pickaway Trail and a $40,000 NatureWorks grant to install a restroom at Canal Park. Additionally, she was responsible for hiring the Park District’s first full-time education and outreach specialist to expand outdoor recreation programming.
Craig Sanders brings a wealth of experience to the role, having served as the Director of the O.O. McIntyre Park District in Gallia County for the past seven years. A graduate of Ohio Christian University, Sanders has a deep understanding of the needs and challenges facing communities like Circleville and Pickaway County. In addition to his work in the park district, Sanders has held roles with the Gallipolis City Schools and the Gallia County Community Action Agency.
“I am honored and excited to take on the role of Executive Director for the Pickaway County Park District,” said Sanders. “I am committed to building on the successes of my predecessors 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.”
Sanders will spend his first few months acclimating to the new role, reconnecting with Circleville and Pickaway County. He is eager to help advance projects planned for 2025, including the installation of a restroom at Canal Park and continued improvements to the Park District headquarters as preparations are made for the development of the county’s first nature center.
The Board of Commissioners and staff are enthusiastic about the future under Sanders’ leadership and look forward to continued growth and success in providing exceptional outdoor recreation opportunities for the residents of Pickaway County.
