The city of Chillicothe has announced the hiring of Josh Norris as the athletic facilities manager for its parks system. With the recommendation of the city’s parks and recreation board, City Council members unanimously approved the hiring of Norris during a special executive session Monday night at City Hall.

Norris begins his position on July 1, filling the vacancy of Ron Krammes, who was named parks director in May. Krammes had been the athletic facilities manager for 10 years.

The Chillicothe parks system is nothing new to Norris. He is a Chillicothe High School graduate, played baseball with Chillicothe SPA, Chillicothe High School, the American Legion and the college-level Chillicothe Mudcats. He also has worked seasonally for the parks department for six years. “He’s played on every field we have and has helped get them ready,” Krammes said. Norris currently serves as assistant coach for the American Legion.

As athletic facilities manager, Norris will be responsible for the care of all athletic facilities.

Norris attended Northwest Missouri State University in Maryville and graduated with a bachelor of science degree in horticulture and a minor in coaching.

There were 15 applicants for the position and five were interviewed by the parks director and park board.