Brentwood brings on new parks director

BRENTWOOD Brentwood has named E Harith Aleem Jr as its new director for the Parks and Recreation department He is set to start on July Taking over for Bruce Mulder Aleem brings over years of experience in municipal parks and recreation leadership to the position left vacant earlier this year Related Articles Gilroy budget sets up passion-filled flashpoint over fate of parks Sargent Ranch Landowners who proposed quarry sell large chunk of property in Santa Clara County After two decades of restoration work a crucial Bay Area habitat returns to its original natural beauty Mount Tamalpais hiking acclaimed in state parks poll Is there life after extinction Certain Bay Area scientists and conservationists are trying to find out Aleem had previously served as assistant director for Oakland s Parks Recreation and Youth Progress where he managed services such as aquatics facility operations capital improvement projects and recreation offerings His roots in general function began as a teenager working as a certified lifeguard in Oakland A Brentwood resident Aleem stated he was excited to give back to the district he calls home Brentwood s parks and recreation services are a vital part of what makes this group so special explained Aleem I look forward to working with staff residents and city leadership to continue building programs and spaces that bring people together Throughout his career Aleem has strongly advocated for youth employment programs improved recreation infrastructure and has cultivated collaborative partnerships to enhance access to services the city noted His leadership style emphasizes community-driven solutions and a commitment to equitable high-quality recreational opportunities the city announced in a press release Interim City Manager Darin Gale explained Aleem s expertise and a community-minded approach are qualities that make him ideal for the role We look forward to the positive impact he will have on Brentwood s parks and recreation services noted Gale Aleem is a graduate of the Alameda County Leadership Academy He has a bachelor s degree in citizens management and earned his Certified Park and Recreation Professional credential from the National Recreation and Park Association according to the city