By Herman Wang

Staff Writer



Dan Kral, the city of Chattanooga’s director of parks, is taking a position with Stein Construction Co. and will leave city employment July 6.



Mr. Kral, 33, was responsible for operations and maintenance of the city’s parks, including the 21st Century Waterfront.

“It’s an opportunity for me,” he said. “I’m at that stage of my life where I have to take the opportunities that are going to give me and my family the best chance to be successful.”

Mr. Kral earned an annual salary of $95,000. He was hired June 14, 2005, after serving as project manager for the 21st Century Waterfront.

He said his decision to leave the city was not related to the firing of former Parks and Recreation administrator Rob Healy in March and that he maintains good relationships with Mayor Ron Littlefield and current Parks and Recreation administrator Larry Zehnder.

“I’m leaving because of this opportunity, not because of anything that was said or done,” Mr. Kral said.



“It’s strictly a personal, private decision on my part, looking at my job and seeing what would be the best environment for me to accomplish my goals, whether it be with the city or at private practice.”

In a statement, Mayor Ron Littlefield praised Mr. Kral.

“His work was energetic and timely, and he was a pleasure to work with,” the mayor said.

Mr. Zehnder said he hopes to fill Mr. Kral’s position as soon as possible.



E-mail Herman Wang at hwang@timesfreepress.com



For complete details, see tomorrow’s Chattanooga Times Free Press.