South Gwinnett News

Gwinnett County has elevated its Parks and Recreation division to a standalone department, aiming to enhance service delivery and address the increasing demands of its award-winning parks system. As part of this restructuring, County Administrator Glenn Stephens appointed Chris Minor as the Director of the new Parks and Recreation Department and Lindsey Jorstad as Director of the Community Services Department.

“Gwinnett’s stability can be attributed much to our longstanding practice of developing exceptional leaders within our organization, and with these two appointments, we reaffirm that practice,” said Stephens. “I am confident that Chris and Lindsey possess the values and capacity to significantly enhance the remarkable work already underway across our community-focused services and programs.”

Chris Minor, who joined Gwinnett County in 2013, became the first Black leader of Parks and Recreation in 2021. Under his leadership, Gwinnett's recreational programming and facilities have gained national recognition, including consecutive nominations for the National Gold Medal Award for Excellence in park and recreation management. Minor holds a Bachelor of Science in Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Management from Clemson University.

“Our parks and recreation programs set the standard nationwide,” Minor said. “Being named a finalist for the Gold Medal Award two years in a row reflects the dedication of our team. I look forward to building on this success and elevating our offerings even further.”

Lindsey Jorstad will assume her new role as Community Services Director on January 18th, following Tina Fleming's retirement on January 17th. Fleming concludes over 27 years of public service, with 24 years dedicated to Gwinnett County. Her tenure included expanding Health and Human Services as well as Parks and Recreation Divisions.

Jorstad began her career with Gwinnett County in 2007 in aquatic center operations. Her leadership has focused on enhancing collaboration with community partners, stakeholders, and residents.

“Community Services plays a vital role in creating opportunities for connection and growth,” Jorstad said. “I’m humbled to lead this exceptional team and excited to build on the strong foundation established by past leadership. Together, we will continue delivering programs that inspire, empower, and make a meaningful impact in Gwinnett.”

For further details about Parks and Recreation or Community Services programs, visit GwinnettCounty.com.