1970 – 1979

A park district is born - With the support of Hancock County voters, a park district is created. Tim Brugeman is appointed the first park district planning director and planning is underway.

– 1970's Timeline –

1980 – 1989

Progress continues - Voters looked to the 80's with anticipation as the newly created park district provided recreational opportunities including hiking trails, winter sports, canoeing activities, bikeways and “special” places to visit close to home.

– 1980's Timeline –

1990 – 1999

Continued growth - A decade of park growth builds new facilities and parks including the “Doc” Phillips Discovery Center at Oakwoods Nature Preserve, and Litzenberg Memorial Woods on the west side of Hancock County.

– 1990's Timeline –

2000 – 2009

Change begins - The new century begins with major changes as parks are maintained and new facilities are constructed within the parks system, and HPD director Tim Brugeman retires.

– 2000's Timeline –