The Fairfax County Park Authority Board bid farewell to at-large member Jim Zook at the board’s Jan. 11 meeting. His departure marks the end of his nearly six-year service as a member of the Park Authority’s governing body and a storied career with Fairfax County government.

"I am pleased to recognize and express my appreciation to Jim for his contributions to this board and for the perspective he’s brought, especially around equity," said Chairman Kiel Stone. "He has been a big part of helping us move things forward, and we wish him the very best in his future pursuits."

Zook was appointed to the Fairfax County Park Authority Board as an at-large representative by former Board of Supervisors Chairman Sharon Bulova in May 2018. Zook, a former director of the Fairfax County Department of Planning and Zoning for more than two decades, was originally recognized as a "longtime friend to the Park Authority" in 2010 upon his retirement from the county. Since that time, his expertise, advocacy and passion for the county’s open spaces have continued to benefit the Fairfax County park system as he occupied his seat on the board.

"It has been my honor to have worked with each member of the board and with the staff," said Zook in his final remarks. "You can’t help but be impressed with the quality of people you have working for the Park Authority, from the top to the field to wherever you can see that people care."

The vacancy on the board effected by Zook’s departure is expected to be filled within the next several weeks.

For additional information about the Park Authority Board, visit the Board website or contact the Public Information Office at Parkmail@fairfaxcounty.gov.