As Community & Library Services Director, Leslie Hardy oversees Orange’s 22 parks, three libraries and recreation programs.  Currently, she is overseeing the installation of pickleball courts and a skate park in the city.

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Leslie Hardy

Leslie Hardy, Community Services Director for the City of Orange, has recently become the Community & Library Services Director.

“We have 22 parks that we operate,” says Hardy.  “Whether it’s maintenance, a capital improvement project or programs, they all fall under us.  We also have three libraries in the city that we operate.”

The parks span across the city, from Hart Park on the South Side, all the way up to Eisenhower Park, and as far east as Fred Barrera Park, to a new park being planned for near the west side of town near the 57 and 5 freeways.  The recreation programs include youth and adult sports, classes, summer camps, aquatics programs and facility rentals.

“I love my role because there is never a traditional day,” Hardy says.  “There's always something new.  I like being a resource to figure out how to make things happen for the community.”

One of the most anticipated projects under Hardy’s leadership is the construction of 10 lighted pickleball courts at Hart Park.  The courts are slated to open in 2026 and will be located near the Orange Grove.  Another major project Hardy is overseeing is the building of a skate park at Grijalva Park, which is also slated to open next year.

“2026 will be a big year for us,” notes Hardy, who is particularly excited about the $2 million in federal funding secured for the pickleball project through Congressman Correa’s office.

Hardy’s vision extends to improving existing facilities, as evidenced by the rehabilitation of Handy Park.  Her department also played a crucial role in the recent restoration of the historic fountain in Plaza Park.  She emphasizes the importance of community engagement, particularly through social media @OurOrangeRec and @OrangePublicLibrary

“Leslie is the G.O.A.T.,” says Holiday Zimmerman, CEO of the HUB OC, who partners with the city to end homelessness.  “She wants the best for the city and its residents.  She does it with such grace and character and is easy to work with.  She unifies the city—you’d want her on your team.”

Hardy came to Orange in 2018 as Assistant Community Services Director after eight years with the City of Newport Beach.

“At that time, my husband and I were also buying a house in Orange,” she recalls.  “I got the job, and we got the house.  What I love about Orange is there’s something for everyone here, whether you’re an outdoor person, you like shopping, you’re a foodie, or you like the historic side of things.  When you tell people you live (or work) in Orange, they respond with, ‘I love that city.’” 

Leslie Hardy, Community & Library Services Director
714-744-7274  /  www.CityOfOrange.org