By GRAHAM BROOKS / Staff Writer

HELENA–The Helena City Council will be asked to consider eliminating one of the Helena Parks and Recreation directors’ positions at the next Helena City Council meeting on Sept. 14.

If approved by the council, the number of directors for the Helena Parks and Recreation Department would be reduced from two to one beginning Oct. 1, the start of the new budget year.

Helena Mayor Mark Hall said sometimes tough decisions must be made with long term goals in mind.

“I will be asking the council to eliminate one of the park directors positions for the new budget year, which begins Oct. 1,” said Hall. “I am proposing eliminating Director Jason Powers’ position, and promoting the facilities director to handle all operations and facilities in a combined position. We can reallocate the funds saved to better provide much needed services in other areas of parks and rec. which will ultimately better serve the needs and services offered by the parks and recreation department.”

Powers issued a statement through email on Monday, Aug. 31, acknowledging the possibility that his position could be eliminated.

“I have enjoyed working with each of you,” read the statement. “I got to know many of you and your children and thank you all for your contributions to the betterment of Helena’s kids both on and off the field or court.”

If approved by the council on Sept. 14, Bill Miller, director of facilities for parks and recreation, would take over and handle both operations and facilities management for the department.