Dan Hamlin Replaces Terry Lande as BI Metro Park & Recreation District Head; Explore Sunny Hill Trail This Coming Thursday

The Island Wanderer | Posted on October 14, 2024 |

The Bainbridge Island Metro Park & Recreation District has appointed Dan Hamlin as its new Executive Director, replacing the retiring Terry Lande. Hamlin has been with the Parks District since 2006 and has spent 35 years working for parks organizations in Oregon and Washington states.

The Parks Board of Commissioners approved his appointment to the district’s top post at its most recent meeting earlier this month. Lande retired last May and Hamlin has served as the interim Executive Director ever since.

“It’s an honor to serve this community as Executive Director,” Hamlin said. “I’ve enjoyed overseeing the hardworking staff serving the community and I’m looking forward to the future of the Park District.”

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Hamlin will have some big shoes to fill. Lande spent nearly two decades at the Park District helm and was responsible for a number of innovations, including acquiring Fay Bainbridge and Fort Ward parks from the State of Washington, purchasing the Bainbridge Island Recreation Center (formerly the Bainbridge Athletic Club), expanding many Park District programs, as well as offering up a number of free Park activities, such as Concerts in the Park at Battle Point.

Lande has spent much of his early retirement, hanging out with his family, camping in the family RV, sailing his boat and doing some household projects.

Explore New Sunny Hill Trail to Nutes Pond this coming Thursday

Join the Parks Foundation for its second Stewards Circle Exploration of autumn. Experience the Foundation’s impact firsthand at these special gatherings for the organization’s supporters and friends.

Do you know anyone who might be interested in becoming a Stewards Circle member? Bring them along!

This walk is a sneak peek! Explore the new route to one of the island’s quietest and most picturesque parks. The trail will link scenic but isolated Nutes Pond, via the Sunny Hill Trail, with parks and neighborhoods – Blakely Harbor, Fort Ward and the extensive south-end trail system beyond.

The walk will begin and end at Blakely Harbor Park (Country Club Road parking area), with coffee and treats served.

Please note: This trail is still under construction, so the walk may be difficult through brush and rough terrain. There is also elevation gain, so expect a vigorous walk. Please dress and shoe accordingly if you join us for this event.

If you are unable to attend, don’t despair! Our trail-ready staff and board members would be delighted to guide you, including Dave Shorett, local trail expert and co-author of 30 Walks on Bainbridge