Business Journal: Sue Black on short list for job in Dallas

MILWAUKEE -- The Milwaukee Business Journal is reporting fired former Milwaukee County Parks System Director Sue Black is among two candidates vying to become the new parks director for the city of Dallas. This, according to the Dallas Morning News.

Black had served as Milwaukee County Parks Director since 2003, but was fired by Milwaukee County Executive Chris Abele in 2012.

The Milwaukee Business Journal reports Black emerged from a pool of 114 applicants for the Dallas job. The other candidate in the running is Willis Winters, assistant director of the Dallas Park and Recreation Department.

Black gave an upbeat speech to a group of Milwaukee civic and business leaders back in November. Black discussed her past with the County Parks System, and even hinted at what her future may hold.

“I love nature and I love the outdoors and I love working with kids. When I first got the position, I said there are three things I care about: kids, the environment and accountability,” Black said.

Black’s entire presentation discussed unfinished parks projects, and hinted she may have unfinished business with Milwaukee County.

“I want to make sure I contribute. I want to work with people. I like to think of myself as a uniter, rather than a divider,” Black said.

During Black's service, the Milwaukee County Parks System won several awards. However, Black was fired by County Executive Chris Abele with no explanation.

“In terms of details of personnel decisions, I don’t think it’s appropriate to talk about them publicly, both to protect the person and to protect the county,” Abele said.

When asked whether she would consider running against Abele for the County Executive position in the future, Black said: “Things work out the way they’re going to work out. I’ve thought about it for a long time. I thought about it before Chris even ran.” 

Abele sent a statement to FOX6 News, saying this regarding Black’s future: “I’m not focused on anything other than implementing the 2013 budget and moving Milwaukee County forward. I wish Sue well in all of her future endeavors.”

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