Logo courtesy of the City of Gridley

GRIDLEY, CA (MPG) - Gridley moved to stabilize and rebuild its recreation department on May 4 when the city introduced Jamie Luevano as its new recreation manager, a position the city created to bring consistent leadership to programs, staffing and community activities.

Luevano, originally from Paradise, relocated after the Camp Fire, spent about 14 months in Biggs and then settled in Gridley, where he and his family have established long‑term roots. He has served as the JV head coach for the Gridley High School girls basketball team and has worked in a range of youth sports programs over the years, experience he said shaped his approach to community recreation.

“I have a lot of ideas,” Luevano said. “I’m grateful for the opportunity to bring them to Gridley and expand the recreation for all citizens, little ones and retired ones. I think it’s important for community and family to be involved in recreation in all forms.”

The City Council approved the recreation manager position in February to restore full‑time leadership to a department that had operated without a director for years. During that time, other city staff, including the finance director, temporarily handled administrative oversight while programs continued with limited capacity. Council members said the new position will bring stability, improve coordination and support long‑range planning as the city works to expand recreation opportunities.

The council adopted the job description and a monthly salary range of $4,301 to $5,764, outlining duties that include overseeing programs, supervising staff, coordinating with public works on park maintenance, and leading budgeting, grants and long‑range planning. Luevano said his background working with youth programs, along with his coaching experience, prepared him for the responsibilities of the position. Before accepting the job, he had pursued a teaching credential for grades three through five, but said the recreation role offered a better fit for his skills and interests.

“This is a great opportunity for myself and my family,” he said. “We’re established here in Gridley and we’re here for the long term.”

City officials said the recreation manager role supports a broader effort to strengthen the department and improve coordination across parks and programs. Council members welcomed Luevano and thanked him for his willingness to serve the community.