Chelan Council confirms Audrey Cooper as Parks and Recreation Director

CHELAN — After three months leading the Parks and Recreation Department on an interim basis, Audrey Cooper was unanimously confirmed by the Chelan City Council on Feb. 10 as the city’s Parks and Recreation director.

Cooper stepped into the interim role in late 2025 following the departure of former Parks Director Paul Horne. In that capacity she has overseen capital projects, coordinated department services and helped guide programming while the city completed its search for a permanent leader.

Council members expressed confidence in Cooper’s leadership and familiarity with department operations.

“Your work this past quarter has been steady and effective,” Councilmember Terry Sanders said. “You’ve kept parks moving forward without missing a beat.”

Chelan’s Parks and Recreation Department manages the city’s network of parks, open spaces and recreational facilities, including Lakeside Park, Don Morse Memorial Park and municipal greenspaces throughout the community. The department also oversees capital improvements to amenities and coordinates with local partners on youth and community recreation programs.

Before taking on the interim director role, Cooper served as the department’s assistant director and capital projects manager, where she was involved in planning and implementation of park upgrades and infrastructure improvements.

Under her leadership as interim director, the department has continued work on long-planned renovations at Lakeside Park and provided coordination for youth sports partnerships and community recreation services.

Mayor Erin McCardle said the council’s vote reflects both Cooper’s experience and the department’s need for continuity heading into the spring programming season.

“We look forward to the work ahead and the continued stewardship of our parks system,” McCardle said.

Cooper’s confirmation comes as several major parks projects and community recreation efforts are underway or approaching construction phases, including the ongoing Lakeside Park renovation and expanded recreation partnerships with local providers.

The city’s parks system includes dozens of acres of public space and recreation areas that draw both residents and visitors year-round, from shaded lawns and walkways to waterfront amenities and picnic areas.

Cooper will now serve as the city’s permanent Parks and Recreation director, overseeing day-to-day operations as well as long-range planning for facilities and community programs.

Andrew Simpson: 509-433-7626 or andrew@ward.media