Prescott Names New Recreation Services Director

Kristy Diaz-Trahan has been named the new Recreation Services Director for the City of Prescott. A respected leader with over 25 years of experience in Arizona parks and recreation, Diaz-Trahan brings a strong record of innovation, collaboration, and community-centered service to this vital role.

A fourth-generation Arizonan and longtime parks professional, Diaz-Trahan most recently served as Recreation Division Manager of Pima County Parks and Recreation, overseeing a vast system of regional parks, trail systems, community centers, shooting sports and recreation programs across the Sonoran Desert. Her leadership supported capital improvement projects, community partnerships, and inclusive programming in both urban and rural areas, serving a diverse population across southern Arizona.

Prior to her work with Pima County, Diaz-Trahan served as Parks and Recreation Director for the Town of Oro Valley. During her tenure, she led the Town through a dynamic period, launching wellness-focused initiatives, expanding sports tourism, and overseeing the development of multi-generational recreation amenities. She worked closely with Council and community stakeholders to align parks and recreation efforts with broader municipal goals related to health, economic development, and environmental stewardship.

“I’m honored to join the City of Prescott and excited to serve a community that values its outdoor spaces and active lifestyle,” said Diaz-Trahan. “From growing up exploring Arizona’s wild spaces to leading parks and recreation efforts across the state, my personal passion and professional path have always been aligned with building strong, healthy communities through parks, people, and purpose.”

City Manager Dallin Kimble shared, “We are thrilled to welcome Kristy to our leadership team. Her depth of experience in Arizona, her strong commitment to collaboration, and her innovative approach to community recreation make her a fantastic fit for Prescott and the future of our Recreation Services Department.”

Diaz-Trahan will begin her new role on June 2, 2025, replacing long time Director Joe Baynes who retires as of May 1, 2025.  The recruitment process netted nearly 50 applications, and Kristy was selected from a group of four finalists.