Christopher Williams, Acting Superintendent of Parks and Recreation for the past four years, announced on Aug. 20 that he would step down to the role of Deputy Superintendent. Williams is returning to his previous role with the department as he manages some personal health issues.

"I want to thank Christopher for his dedication and service to Seattle Parks and Recreation and the people of Seattle over the last four years as Acting Superintendent, and for many years before that in other capacities with the department," said Seattle Mayor Ed Murray. "Under his leadership, the department has successfully weathered significant budget reductions as the result of the Great Recession, including both service and staffing cuts. Seattle's park system will benefit from Christopher's work for years to come."

The Mayor said he will conduct a national search to find a new leader for the Parks and Recreation Department. The search is underway and will be completed by January of 2015.