Meet Our Team

Kim Watt: Director

Kim has served as Director of Acworth Parks, Recreation, and Community Resource Department since August 2021, previously serving as the Assistant Director over Recreation as well as the Director of the Acworth Tourism Bureau Authority. Kim graduated from Western Carolina University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Sport Management and a minor in Marketing. She is a Certified Parks and Recreation Professional and a graduate of GRPA Leadership program. Kim and her family reside in downtown Acworth and in her spare time she enjoys traveling, exploring new parks, and volunteering with Special Olympics. She has over 20 years of recreation experience and is extremely honored to work and play in the community where she lives.

Neely Motiejunas: Assistant Director – Recreation

Neely joined the City of Acworth team in 2018 after an 18-year tenure with Cherokee Recreation and Parks Agency. She began her journey in Acworth as the Community Center Director and now serves as the Assistant Director of Recreation. In this role, Neely oversees the Customer Experience Team, the Recreation Team, and the overall operations of the Acworth Community Center.

Neely holds a bachelor’s degree in Recreation Management from Shorter College and remains deeply involved in her profession as an active member of the Georgia Recreation and Park Association, contributing on both state committees and within her district.

Outside of work, Neely enjoys life’s simple pleasures—spending time with family and friends, cooking, hiking with her husband and dogs (Bandit & Dexter), watching her daughter play lacrosse, spending too much time on Tik Tok and faithfully cheering on the ever-frustrating Atlanta Falcons.

Ask Me What I do for the Acworth Community:

From sweet Southern “I do’s” in Tanyard Creek Overlook to competitive sporting competitions at all levels in the Activity Center, I’m your gal for all things events, programs, and community fun! Whether you’re booking a space to celebrate, fundraise, compete, or share with others in extraordinary experiences —I’ll help you feel right at home. If it brings people together with smiles and a little Southern hospitality, I’m all in!

Nick Fryman: Assistant Director – Operations

Originally from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, Nick moved with his family to Acworth in 1997 and has called it home ever since. He is a graduate of Truett McConnell College, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in Sport Management.

Nick’s favorite part of his job is collaborating with the amazing staff and contributing to the ongoing improvement of local parks and facilities. Of all the events he helps organize, Santa’s Arrival holds a special place as his favorite.

Outside of work, Nick enjoys spending time outdoors, attending concerts, hanging out with friends, and cheering on the Atlanta Braves. He currently lives in Dallas with his wife, daughter, son, and their Australian Shepherd, Rory.

Ask Me What I do for the Acworth Community:

Parks Maintenance, Dallas Beach, Proctor Beach, Cauble Beach, Great Lake Clean Up, and Acworth Lake Authority

Ryan Lopez: Assistant Director – Property Management

Ryan Lopez is a proud Army veteran, husband, father of four, coach, and lifelong learner. Born and raised in Dumas, Texas, Ryan spent 10 years serving in the U.S. Army, an experience that shaped his values of discipline, leadership, and service. After completing his military service, Ryan and his family moved to Michigan where he served as a Contract Specialist & Cost Price Analyst for the Depart of Defense, with Ryan’s commitment to his local community he served as the Parks Superintendent in Lake Orion, Michigan. Ryan recently moved to Acworth where his family now calls home.

Education has always been important to Ryan, earning both his MBA and Bachelor’s in Liberal Studies from Purdue University — a journey that deepened his commitment to personal growth and professional development.

These days, Ryan stays busy coaching, a role he truly enjoys as it combines a passion for the sport with the opportunity to mentor young athletes. When he’s not on the field, you’ll likely find him golfing, spending time with his wife and kids, walking, going to the zoo, or enjoying the local events put on by the Parks and Recreation Department, or hanging out with his service dog, Ranger — who’s always by his side.

Edwin Lacher: Senior Recreation Coordinator – Athletics

Edwin graduated from Florida State University with a Bachelor’s degree in Sport Management in 2012, followed by a Master’s degree in Sports Administration in 2014. Originally from Jupiter, Florida, he now lives in Buckhead with his dog, Chief.

Edwin loves his job because it keeps him immersed in the world of sports every day. In his free time, he enjoys staying active, spending time with family and friends, and cheering on his favorite teams — Florida State, the Falcons, Atlanta United, the Braves, and the Florida Panthers.

Ask Me What I do for the Acworth Community:

Got burning questions about Itty Bitty Ballers, achieving athletic feats in our youth or adult leagues, or chasing that perfect pickleball serve? Whether it’s the Acworth Turkey Chase, our epic sports leagues, or any athletic camp, I’ve got the inside scoop!

Daulton Hill: Events and Communications Coordinator

Daulton Hill is a proud Acworth native with a strong background in athletics and community engagement. He played collegiate baseball at Calhoun Community College and Georgia Highlands College before transferring to Kennesaw State University, where he earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Sport Management in 2018.His passion for recreation, teamwork, and community service is at the heart of everything he does. Daulton plays an integral role in supporting programs and events across the department and is passionate about serving his community both professionally and personally. He is an active member of the North Cobb Rotary Club, where he continues to give back through service and local involvement.Outside of work, Daulton enjoys spending time outdoors—whether it’s hiking, playing volleyball, or participating in local sports leagues. He’s also an avid Atlanta Braves fan and loves traveling and making memories with his wife.

Ask Me What I do for the Acworth Community:

How Santa finds Acworth every year, bringing the community together one event at a time, making your event official (permit in hand!), and keeping our socials as lively as our concerts. I’m also your go-to for becoming a vendor or sponsor at our events—and helping you get involved in the events that make Acworth feel like home.

Lauren Ham: Therapeutics Coordinator

Lauren is passionate about creating inclusive, meaningful experiences for our community. She graduated from Winona State University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Therapeutic Recreation and Recreation & Leisure Studies and is both a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS) and a Certified Parks and Recreation Professional (CPRP).

Lauren and her family call Kennesaw home, where they stay busy keeping up with their two pups, Zoe and Oliver. Her favorite Acworth program is Horizon Baseball, where she gets to watch athletes of all abilities shine on and off the field.

Outside of work, Lauren has been dedicated to pure barre fitness classes for seven years, enjoys playing with her dogs, and loves to travel whenever she can.

Ask Me What I do for the Acworth Community:

I proudly lead our Special Needs Programs – building opportunities for connection, growth, and fun for all!

Lauren McMurry: Active Adult Coordinator

Lauren is a Georgia native who is always on the hunt for a good adventure and a laugh. She’s a wife, new mom to baby Cade, and proud dog mom to Hank and Stella. Her world is a mix of baby bottles, dog hair, and a calendar full of adventures—just the way she likes it.

When she’s not organizing day trips and overnight getaways for the city’s Vintage Voyagers, she’s most likely laughing with friends or spending time with family, recharging with good conversation and even better company. Her soundtrack of choice? 90s and early 2000s country—with Alan Jackson and George Strait always on repeat.

She believes in meaningful connections, thoughtful planning, and making space for fun wherever she goes.

Ask Me What I do for the Acworth Community:

Bucket list adventures, finding your new favorite fitness class, making new friends, the best places to get breakfast

Jordon Gonzalez: Youth Programming Coordinator

Jordon graduated from California State University, Northridge with a Bachelor’s Degree in Kinesiology and a Master’s degree in Recreational Sport Management. Originally from Southern California, she moved to Georgia in 2016 while her husband attended UGA (Go Dawgs!) and they have planted their roots in Northwest Georgia ever since. She is a graduate of the GRPA Georgia Harris Leadership Series and recipient of the GRPA District 5 Outstanding Programmer Award. She has a passion for creating extraordinary programs for youth such as Tiny Tots, Camp Acworth and Breakfast with the Grinch. When she’s not busy planning youth programs, she’s planning family fun time for her own kiddos. In her free time, she enjoys reading, camping with her family and their two dogs, doing crafts with her kids, and playing video games with her husband. And her favorite numbers? 6~7!!!!!

Ask Me What I do for the Acworth Community:

Toddler Programs: Tiny Tots and Tiny Tots: On the Move!; Elementary Programs: Creative Crafters Studio, Pokémon Trainers Club; Middle School/ High School Programs: Acworth Achievers and Expanding Horizons; Camps: Winter Break Camp, Camp Acworth; Family Events: MLK Day of Service and Celebration, Acworth Egg Hunt, Halloween JamBOOree, Daddy Daughter Date Night, Mother Son Camp Out and Breakfast with the Grinch!

Trey Tidwell: Assistant Recreation Coordinator

Trey was originally born in New Jersey, then moved to Acworth, Georgia, when he was 10. He has grown up through recreational activities and has worked for the City of Acworth for just about 9 years, starting out as a Counselor in Training. In his free time, Trey enjoys traveling, fashion design, live music, festivals, food, anime, and walks with his dog Marley.

Ask Me What I do for the Acworth Community:

Acworth Achievers/Expanding Horizons, Adult and Youth Athletics, Youth Camps and Programs, Active Adult Programs.

Jonathan Bennett: Operations Manager – Parks

Jonathan has served the City of Acworth for over a decade in various roles, including Crew Lead, Parks Operations Supervisor for Athletics, and now Parks Operations Manager. He began his career with the city as a full-time staff member and has grown alongside the department through his dedication and leadership. Jonathan holds a certification in Diesel Engine Theory and Technology from North Metro Tech and earned his Class A CDL through the Troops to Transport Program at Fort Benning. A graduate of Year 1 of the GRPA Maintenance Management School, Jonathan is passionate about maintaining and improving the spaces that bring the community together. Outside of work, he enjoys hunting, fishing, and spending time outdoors. A longtime Acworth Baseball coach and mentor for over 11 years, Jonathan treasures the opportunity to teach, learn, and grow with his community through his passion for our parks.

Ask Me What I do for the Acworth Community:

Parks Maintenance, Dallas Landing Park, Proctor Landing Park, Cauble Park, and the Great Lake Clean Up

Clem Freeman: Operations Manager – Athletics & Horticulture

Clem attended Manatee Junior College before transferring to Florida State University to play college baseball. He was the two time 1st round draft pick to play baseball professionally for the Cincinnati Reds. Clem relocated to Georgia in 2011 and now works with us full time. He was named the 2014 GRPA, District 5 Outstanding Facility and Grounds Maintenance Staff Member of the Year. He now resides in Euharlee with his wife and enjoys spending time with their blended family of 6 children, playing golf, and cheering on the FSU Seminoles and the Atlanta Braves.

Ask Me What I do for the Acworth Community:

Athletic Fields and Horticulture

Joseph Jones: Operations Manager – Property Management

Joseph Jones is a dedicated professional from Calhoun County, Alabama, with a Bachelor’s in Business Management and a Master’s in Sports Management from Jacksonville State University. His career began at Fort Benning as a Program Assistant and Sports Specialist before joining the City of Acworth, where he advanced from Crew Lead for Athletics to Operations Manager for Facilities. Joseph holds a Class A CDL and is a Certified Playground Safety Inspector. He resides in Dallas, Georgia, with his wife, daughter, and two German Shepherds, Ray and Gabby. He enjoys fishing, attending church, spending time with friends and family, and cheering for the Alabama Crimson Tide and Jacksonville State Gamecocks!

Ask Me What I do for the Acworth Community:

Building and Facility Maintenance

Ash Jordan Fox: Business Manager/Assistant Recreation Coordinator

Ash graduated from the University of Northwestern with a degree in Communication Studies. Originally from Minnesota, she now lives in Kennesaw with her partner and has loved getting to know the community. In her free time, Ash enjoys exploring a new city, making people laugh, playing her music way too loud in the car, reading a good book, and finding weird stuff for her home at antique malls.

Ask Me What I do for the Acworth Community:

Snagging the perfect place for your next picnic or party, signing up for that class you didn’t know you needed, or how I juggle finances, helping to hire new employees, and keeping the behind-the-scenes magic alive (maybe with the help of a little coffee!)

Brittany Salkill: Customer Experience Coordinator

Brittany joined the team as Customer Experience Coordinator in April 2025. She has loved getting to know the Acworth community and bringing people together through the community classes offered at the Acworth Community Center! A classically trained flutist, Brittany holds two degrees in flute performance. She regularly plays with the LaGrange Symphony Orchestra and freelances around the Metro Atlanta Area. Outside of work, She enjoys spending her free time crafting and does everything from Cross stitch to Sewing!

Ask Me What I do for the Acworth Community:

Online Facility Reservations, Class Registrations, Community Class Proposals, and General Comments or Questions Related to Parks and Recreation.