MONTEREY – Monterey city staff announced the hiring of a new parks and recreation director. She joins Monterey from Newton, Massachusetts, where she served as commissioner of parks, recreation and culture. Banks brings more than 20 years of experience in municipal parks and recreation leadership. City staff cited her operational experience and collaborative management approach as key factors in her selection. As parks and recreation director, she will oversee community centers, field sports, youth camps, the Monterey Sports Center and the parks division which includes parks and beaches, trees and urban forestry, Veterans Memorial Campground and Cemetery El Encinal.