Athens-Clarke County Unified Government (ACCGov) Manager Bob Cowell has appointed Kimberly Zygmant to serve as the new Leisure Services Department Director starting May 26, 2026. She has served as the Assistant Parks and Recreation Director for Layton City, Utah since 2023. 

“Kimberly has a wide variety of experience in many different facets of parks, recreation, and cultural facilities operations at communities across the country,” said Cowell. “The knowledge and leadership she brings to Athens-Clarke County will benefit not only the Leisure Services Department, but all of our residents and visitors into the future.” 

In her current role, Zygmant supervises over 150 full-time and part-time staff; oversees the management and operations of three gymnasiums, 25 athletic fields, a 2,000-capacity amphitheater, and a museum; and directs the recreation division responsible for city-wide special events exceeding 50,000 attendees, sports leagues with over 10,000 annual participants, and more than 30 annual programs. 

Prior to her role with Layton City, Zygmant served as the Parks and Recreation Assistant Director for Victoria, Texas for three years, the Recreation Facility Manager for Asheville, North Carolina for four years, and in several roles at the Discovery Center and in recreation for Ocala, Florida over three years. 

“I’m honored and thrilled to join the Athens-Clarke County team as the new Leisure Services Director and to become part of a community that so clearly values the people, their spaces, and the experiences that bring people together,” said Zygmant. “From parks and trails to recreation programs and cultural spaces, Leisure Services plays an essential role in enhancing health and wellness by connecting the community to parks, facilities, programs, and community.” 

Zygmant holds a bachelor’s degree from Appalachian State University in Recreation and Parks Management. She is a Certified Parks and Recreation Executive and certified Aquatic Facility Operator by the National Recreation and Park Association.  

“I’m excited to bring my experience and passion for meaningful community experiences as we continue creating accessible, welcoming spaces for everyone,” she said. 

Former Leisure Services Director Kent Kilpatrick retired from the director position as of April 1, 2025. Assistant Director Alex Bond has served as the department’s interim director since that time. 

“I’d like to thank Alex for guiding the department through this transitional period between directors and maintaining the high level of service and programming that the community expects,” said Cowell.  

The Athens-Clarke County Leisure Services Department's mission is to build a healthier and more livable community by providing opportunities to learn, to create, and to play in quality parks, programs and facilities that are valued by Athens-Clarke County residents. 

For more information on the Leisure Services Department and its programs and facilities, visit www.accgov.com/leisure.