New commissioner helped system get tax levy passed

A lawyer who worked on Metro Parks’ last levy campaign in 2009 is the park district’s newest commissioner.

JB Hadden was recently appointed by Franklin County Probate Judge Robert Montgomery to replace Jeff McNealey, who is recovering from a stroke.

Hadden, 49, of Bexley, was treasurer during the district’s successful campaign to pass a 10-year, 0.75mill levy. Hadden has been with the law firm of Murray Murphy Moul & Basil for three years. Before that, he worked with McNealey at the Porter Wright law firm for 17 years. He counsels clients on public policy and energy and serves on the rules committee for U.S. District Court in Columbus.

Tim Moloney, the parks executive director, said Hadden also has experience working on environmental issues.

“I think he’s the ideal replacement,” Commissioner Jim McGregor said. “He

“I hope our goal is to go back, show the voters what we’ve accomplished.”

—JB Hadden

has loads of legal experience. JB, being a practicing attorney, will bring a real good perspective to the board.”

Commissioner Greg Lashutka said, “He’s a very bright guy with a lot of common sense, some passion for what Metro Parks stands for.”

Hadden said he thinks the parks board has taken the right direction since the levy passed.

“I hope our goal is to go back, show the voters what we’ve accomplished,” he said.

Hadden said he spent a lot of time walking and discussing the parks with former Commissioner Robert “Tad” Jeffrey, who died in 2016.

The system has opened three parks since the levy passed, including Scioto Grove Metro Park along the Scioto River in southern Franklin County. Metro Parks officials are now negotiating for land for a 20th park south of Griggs Reservoir.