FOREST CITY, NC –– The Town of Forest City congratulates Parks and Recreation Director Jody Wright on his retirement, effective February 20, 2026. Wright’s retirement was recognized at the Forest City Board of Commissioners meeting on Monday, February 16, where Town Manager Janet Mason and Mayor Steve Holland expressed their gratitude for his years of dedicated service to Forest City.
Wright began his career with the Town of Forest City in October 1997 as Athletic Director and was promoted in January 2005 to Parks and Recreation Director. During his tenure, Wright led significant recreational developments and enhancements, including the completion of McNair Field, the Pavilion on Park Square (POPS), and Legacy Soccer Park.
In addition to facilitating the development of these parks and facilities, Wright has been instrumental in securing grant funding to improve existing amenities without increasing the financial burden on taxpayers. Through these efforts, Crowe Park received a new playground, Larry K. Ross Gym received new basketball goals, and various improvements have been made across all parks and recreation facilities. Other key projects completed under his leadership include the renaming of Larry K. Ross Gym, the installation of pickleball courts at Callison’s Gym, and the resurfacing of the basketball courts at Hardin Road Park.
During the February 16 Board of Commissioners meeting, Mayor Steve Holland offered his appreciation to Wright. “Thank you for everything you’ve done for this town,” he commented. “You’ve made a huge difference in our community and we really appreciate you.”
Throughout his career, Wright emphasized collaboration and community partnership as the foundation of the Town’s success. Reflecting on his years of service, he shared, “The thing I’m most proud of is the way the town worked together to make Forest City the best it can be.”
Town Manager Janet Mason also shared her gratitude, saying, “Jody leaves behind more than fields and facilities – he leaves a stronger parks system, increased recreational opportunities, and a lasting impact on the quality of life for Forest City residents and visitors. We thank him for his years of service and wish him the very best in his well-earned retirement.”
At the Board of Commissioners meeting, Dr. Mason announced Julie Powell as the Town’s next Parks and Recreation Director. Powell currently serves as the principal of East Rutherford High School and brings with her years of operational leadership experience, a background in coaching and youth athletics, and a deep passion for expanding recreational opportunities in Forest City. A lifelong member of the community, Powell considers Forest City home and looks forward to working alongside Town leadership, staff, and residents to continue advancing recreational opportunities for the community.
City Clerk Emily Sain will serve as interim Parks and Recreation Director until Powell officially assumes the role.
The Town of Forest City expresses gratitude to Jody Wright for his 29 years of service and celebrates his lasting impact on the town’s parks and recreation programs.