Carroll Butts "Mr. Business"

Carroll Butts knew that every organization, in order to survive and prosper, must practice good business sense. Serving on the District's Board of Directors from its inception in 1955 to 1973, he provided that sound business judgment coupled with dedication to the welfare of him community to insure the early success of the District.

Carroll's knowledge of, and respect from, the local business community was invaluable in gaining support for the District's formation and, later, in obtaining much needed goods and services during the District's infancy. He was also instrumental in obtaining the cooperation of Adams County School District #50 and fostering the ongoing teamwork that has marked the relationship between these two entities for over 40 years.

During his tenure on the Board of Directors, the District passed a number of successful general obligation bond issues for the construction of both outdoor and indoor swimming pools, tennis courts, ballfields and parks. Under Carroll's continued leadership, the District opened the Hyland Hills Ice Arena in 1971, the Lions Community Building was constructed and Camenisch Park, the present site of Water World, was purchased as the District grew from an idea on paper to an energetic and healthy recreational entity.

Carroll's biggest contribution to the District was his strong support for a District-owned and operated golf course. The Hyland Hills Golf Course, completed in the fall of 1963, was the first public golf course built outside the City and County of Denver, and the first recipient of a federal Open Space Grant in the United States.

Carroll provided 17 years of service to the residents and taxpayers of Hyland Hills Park and Recreation District. His strong leadership, common sense and dedication to the benefits of parks and recreation for the entire community were invaluable to the formation, growth and spirit of Hyland Hills, and continue to serve as a guiding light for all who have followed in his footsteps.