The Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission has announced the appointment of Issaquah resident Peter Mayer as the agency’s new director, effective March 15. Mayer currently serves as the Deputy Executive Director of Metro Parks Tacoma, where he is responsible for governance, strategic direction and overall business operations. During his time there, the organization received the prestigious National Recreation and Park Association’s Gold Medal award. 

As the state director, Mayer will be responsible for leading one of the country’s most beautiful and diverse park systems encompassing more than 120,000 acres with 124 developed parks, numerous properties and heritage sites, and a team of 1,000 dedicated staff.  

Previously, Mayer helped lead Snohomish Health District, Vancouver-Clark Parks and Recreation, and Mercer Island Parks and Recreation. Earlier, he spent time as a seasonal park aide and interpretive assistant at Fort Casey Historical State Park and former state park Chief Timothy. 

Mayer, 52, holds a master’s degree in parks and recreation administration from Washington State University. Mayer and his wife Jen have two children — Zack, 18, and Isabel, 14. 

Materials courtesy of Friends of Lake Sammamish State Park.