When Mike Hahm says he leads one of the best public park systems in the country, he's not lying.
Ranked second nationally by the Trust for Public Land, with 99% of city residents living within a 10-minute walk of one of its 264 parks, St. Paul scores well year after year for its park amenities, programming and green space.
The city's parks and recreation director since 2008, Hahm started his career 36 years ago as a recreation leader, flooding hockey rinks and working with kids. He retires Feb. 28.
Hahm, 54, who is married to St. Paul City Council President Amy Brendmoen, said he believes he is leaving a strong parks system better than he found it.
In a recent interview with Eye On St. Paul, Hahm talked about adding "hidden gems" to St. Paul's roster of parks, launching programs that are more inclusive of the city's cultural diversity. He also describedwhat he plans to do after retirement.
This interview was edited for length.
Q: What's your plan after retiring?
A: I'll be around. I plan to stay involved in the community — 36 years is a long time to work for an organization. We have a great team here, and they're totally ready to pick stuff up. I have total confidence in that.