Our Purpose
The Hendry LaBelle Recreation Board is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for residents and visitors by providing safe, welcoming parks and recreational opportunities that bring people together. Through community events, youth programs, outdoor activities, and public spaces, we strive to create places where families can connect, friendships can grow, and lasting memories can be made.
Our parks serve as gathering places for celebrations, sports, fitness, and recreation. From local festivals and seasonal events to youth athletics and family activities, we work to offer experiences that encourage community involvement and active lifestyles for people of all ages.
We believe parks play an important role in building strong communities. They provide opportunities for neighbors to connect, children to play, families to spend quality time together, and visitors to experience the unique character of our area. By maintaining and improving our parks and facilities, we help ensure these spaces remain enjoyable for current residents and future generations.
The Recreation Board continues to support programs and events that celebrate community spirit while promoting health, wellness, and outdoor recreation. Whether attending a local festival, participating in a youth sports program, enjoying a family picnic, or simply spending time outdoors, our goal is to create opportunities that strengthen community connections and enrich everyday life.
We are proud to serve the residents of LaBelle and Hendry County and remain committed to fostering a vibrant, active, and family-friendly community through quality parks, recreation programs, and special events.
Board Members
Emory “Rowdy” Howard
County Commissioner / Chairman
Emory “Rowdy” Howard is a fifth generation and lifelong resident of LaBelle. Rowdy is retired from the Lee County Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting Department of 29 years. He also has served on various boards and committees in Lee and Hendry Counties. He lives in LaBelle with his wife of thirty four years and two grandchildren.
Paul Samerdyke
Schoolboard Member / Vice Chairman
Paul Samerdyke is a 38-year resident of LaBelle, where he has lived with his wife of 41 years and their four (4) children. He is a veteran of the U.S. Army and a dedicated public servant to the residents of Hendry County through his 35-year career with the Florida Department of Education; as past President of the Hendry County Education Association; and currently as President of the Port LaBelle Utility System Board.
Bobbie Spratt
City Commissioner
Bobbie Spratt has served on the Swamp Cabbage Committee, as a Chamber Director and has volunteered for various other community events. She is a veteran educator of 44 years in Florida Public Schools, living in LaBelle and working in Hendry County Schools since 1973. After getting married in June 1974, she and her husband moved to Clermont for 6 months but both missed LaBelle, so they moved back in December of ’74, never to leave again.
Mitchell Wills
County Commissioner
Mitchell was born an raised in Hendry County. He graduated from LaBelle High School. Mitch began his career with the County over 20 years ago. In 2016, he gained a seat as Commissioner for District 3. County Commissioner Mitchell Wills has been a member of the Hendry-LaBelle Recreation Board for many years.
Staff Members
Steven Lynn
Director
Steven started working with Hendry-LaBelle Recreation Board in July of 2021, learning the ropes of his job. Steven is a high school graduate and attended some college, earning a certificate in welding. He is a veteran, having served as a Unit Armorer for seven years. He has training as Military Police, ESM and CLS. He is also certified in CPR, first aid and AED. He was raised in LaBelle and has been in many clubs in the area.
Larry Lambert
Supervisor
Maddison Belcher
Office Manager
Maddison started working with Hendry-LaBelle Recreation Board in May of 2024. She has attended some college; she was raised in Hendry County and is active in the community.
Maria Rafaela
Groundskeeper I
Gustavo Zapata
Groundskeeper I
Frank Santiago
Groundskeeper I
Groundskeepers are responsible for maintaining the landscape of our parks and community centers. Essential duties include mowing lawns, removing weeds, trimming shrubs, planting new greenery, removing unwanted shrubbery and ensuring walkways remain clear. They also pick up and remove trash and debris from the properties on a daily basis. This crew is responsible for the maintenance of all the buildings, including concession stands and restrooms. There are over 170 acres of land associated with the parks that need constant care.