Parks and Recreation Director and committee adopt mission wording that adds protection of Bangor’s natural resources

The Parks and Recreation Director opened the July 9 meeting with two draft mission statements and led a discussion that culminated in adoption of a version that explicitly includes protecting Bangor’s natural resources.

"Bangor Parks and Recreation is dedicated to strengthening community connections and civic pride through safe, accessible, and diverse recreational opportunities that promote lifelong enjoyment, well-being, and protect Bangor's natural resources," the director said while reading the agreed phrasing to the committee.

Committee members debated specific wording for several minutes, with some arguing the word "stewardship" might not resonate with the public. One member said the term felt uncommon and suggested alternatives such as "fostering" or "protection." The director incorporated that feedback and proposed the wording that the group ultimately accepted.

Members also confirmed the committee intended the phrase "natural resources" to include waterfront assets such as the harbor and river, noting that harbor oversight historically sat with a separate advisory body and now falls under this group’s remit. The director explained that management plans and other department documents will reflect that inclusion.

The director said staff will finalize the statement and circulate the approved version to committee members. No formal roll-call vote was recorded in the transcript; the adoption was reflected by group assent during the discussion.