Celebrating 35 Years of Service: Kristen Smith, Recreation Manager

This year marks a remarkable milestone for Kristen Smith, who is celebrating 35 years of dedicated service in Parks and Recreation. Kristen currently serves as the Recreation Manager for the City of Bellflower, where her journey began in September 1989 as a part-time Recreation Leader, overseeing after-school programs for local youth.

Kristen's path to City service started with an unexpected introduction. "My brother Craig was a baseball coach at a local high school and stopped by Thompson Park one day to ask about field availability. Craig had unforgettable charisma, and Chuck Fernandes, the park supervisor at the time, encouraged him to apply for a position. Craig declined, but without hesitation, he recommended me instead," Kristen recalls. "I met with Chuck, and we immediately bonded. I applied, navigated the recruitment process successfully and instantly felt how special Bellflower was. That moment changed everything."

From that first role, Kristen steadily advanced, spending two decades as recreation supervisor at Simms Park where staff affectionately nicknamed her "Boss Lady". During that time, she discovered her passion for mentoring youth, developing staff and helping families plan unforgettable events such as weddings and Quinceañeras.

"Our Administrative office is located at Simms Park which allowed me to work in close proximity to our former and long-time Director, Rich Pierce," Kristen explains. "I would often go to him for advice and was a sponge absorbing everything I could from him. I did not realize it at the time, but that experience prepared me for my next role."

In 2013, Kristen was promoted to Recreation Manager, where she now oversees department operations, plans special events like the annual BRAVO Awards, manages transportation services, and is involved in major grant-funded projects. "My parents were property managers and taught me the value of hard work early on. The skills I learned from them - managing spaces, working with people, solving problems - have been invaluable in my career."

Kristen holds a bachelor's degree in public administration from National University but credits her real-world experience as the foundation of her success. "I've done nearly every job in this department, and that hands-on experience has given me a deep understanding of how the city operates. Parks and Recreation touches every department in some way, and it's essential to understand how each one functions and to respect their processes."

Her pride in Bellflower shines through. "I am incredibly proud of the work we do and the friends I've made along the way, many of whom have become like family," shares Kristen. "We are fortunate to have a supportive City Council, a visionary city manager and an exceptionally talented team. That's the real magic behind our organization's success. Our Parks and Recreation staff is truly among the best in the field, thanks in large part to the high standards set by our director, P.J. Mellana. Working with P.J. is always an adventure. While our personalities couldn't be more different, we share the same commitment and sensibilities. That balance, and our ability not to take ourselves too seriously, is what makes our dynamic work so successful."

Looking ahead, Kristen remains energized about the future. "There are still a few projects I want to see through, most notably the construction of The Oak Center, Bellflower's landmark multi-generational community center. I am also optimistic about the emerging leadership within our department. We have so many talented players warming up on the bench and ready to step forward.. It's hard to believe 35 years have flown by. Parks and Recreation truly is the fountain of youth - it's what keeps me feeling young!"

Outside of work, Kristen finds joy in cardio (especially when it involves shopping), listening to great music, watching sports, enjoying good food and sharing laughs with her husband of 28 years, Brad. She also cherishes every moment with her nephew Easton, 11, and niece Peyton, 7. "They are my world. Their endless energy and enthusiasm for play inspires me every day!"

Employee spotlights are part of the Bellflower 2025-27 Strategic PlanGoal #3: Continue Investing in a High-Performing and Efficient Team at City Hall.