News BREC Announces Finalists for Superintendent Position  

Baton Rouge, LouisianaMay 04, 2026BREC has identified three finalists in its national search for the organization’s next Superintendent, marking an important milestone in selecting the next leader of one of the nation’s premier parks and recreation systems. 

The finalists are Brooks Williams, Chris Maitre, and Daniel Betts, each bringing extensive executive leadership experience in public administration, parks, recreation, and organizational management.

During the week of May 4, each finalist will spend time in Baton Rouge participating in a comprehensive interview and evaluation process. They will be meeting with leaders, staff and touring East Baton Rouge parish and BREC facilities, with the goal of providing opportunities to experience Baton Rouge and the broader community firsthand. This immersive process is designed to give both candidates and the selection committee a deeper understanding of leadership fit, organizational vision, and community priorities as BREC prepares for its next chapter. 

Meet the Finalists:

Brooks Williams 

Currently serving as City Manager and Chief Executive Officer for the City of Ferris, Texas, Williams is an accomplished executive leader with experience in municipal government, strategic planning, operational excellence, and organizational transformation. He brings a strong background in fiscal stewardship, public-sector innovation, and systems leadership, with a Doctorate in Public Administration and a career focused on building high-performing organizations.  

Chris Maitre 

Maitre currently serves as Chief Executive Officer of Brackenridge Park Conservancy in San Antonio, Texas, and previously held senior executive leadership roles with New Orleans City Park and Tulane University. With nearly three decades of experience, he offers deep expertise in park operations, capital projects, revenue generation, public-private partnerships, and community-centered recreation leadership. 

Daniel Betts 

Betts is the Executive Director of Recreation for the Cincinnati Recreation Commission, where he leads a large-scale urban recreation system focused on operational excellence, strategic modernization, and community impact. His background includes leadership roles in Chicago, Denver, and Cook County, with extensive experience in municipal operations, public engagement, youth programming, and building strong, accountable organizations that serve diverse communities.  

“Selecting BREC’s next Superintendent is one of the most significant decisions for the organization’s future, and this process is designed to ensure the best possible choice for our staff, our parks system, and the community we serve,” said BREC Commission Chair, Mike Polito.  

The Superintendent decision is expected at the May 28 BREC Commission meeting.