He started when Overland Park was only 10 years old, before the presence of Corporate Woods, the Deanna Rose Children's Farmstead and so much more.

Parks & Recreation Director Jim Cox has announced his retirement effective Dec. 18. Cox began his career with Overland Park in January 1970 as a groundskeeper at the Overland Park Golf Course. Over his 40 years, he was promoted five times. He was promoted to his current position in 1989.

During his service Jim has seen the creation of the Farmstead; negotiated the purchase of a 300-acre tract for the Arboretum & Botanical Gardens, 179th and Antioch; helped Overland Park become Tree City USA for 29 consecutive years; and delivered a $1 million check in 1971 for the purchase of land that today is home to the Farmstead, the Soccer Complex and St. Andrews Golf Course.

Throughout his career, Jim was involved and directed various parks projects including the Farmstead opening in 1978; building of the first section of the bike/hike trail in 1974; construction and opening of the Matt Ross Community Center, 2005-07; and the construction and opening of the Overland Park Soccer Complex.

Congratulations, Jim, on a job well done!