The City and Borough of Juneau (CBJ) is pleased to announce Marc Wheeler as the new Director of Parks and Recreation. A 30-year resident of Juneau, Wheeler brings dynamic experience from his previous work in local government, youth development and the private sector to his new role.  

“My two kids are products of Juneau youth activities, and I consider myself a Parks and Recreation ‘Power User,’” Wheeler shares. “The Parks and Recreation department does a ton to make Juneau a great place to live, and I’m excited to bring my passion to the department.”

Wheeler dedicated twelve years to Big Brothers Big Sisters of Alaska and of America, developing and managing programs for youth around the country. He also founded and co-owned a local coffee shop, Coppa, where he aimed to create a safe community space that supported youth activities. Most recently, Wheeler served as the Small Business Advisor for Spruce Root, Inc., where he provided coaching and business training to entrepreneurs across Southeast Alaska. 

During his time on the Assembly from 2000 to 2005, Wheeler chaired the Public Works and Lands committees. He supported work to convert land donations in community parks, advocated for the construction of the Dimond Park Aquatic Center, and facilitated the naming of Aant’iyeik Fields alongside community leader Dr. Marie Olsen. In November 2003, Wheeler was adopted by his late Auntie, Leona Santiago, into the Kaagwaantaan, Gooch Hít. His Lingít name is X‘ajoos’á. 

Wheeler’s first day with CBJ was November 3. He fills the role vacated by previous director George Schaaf in early 2025. Deputy Director Lauren Verelli has been acting as Interim Director since July 2025. 

“We look forward to working with Marc in his new role with CBJ,” says Deputy City Manager Robert Barr. “He clearly understands the community, the organization, and our Parks and Recreation users — we’re excited to see what he and his team can accomplish.”   

As Director of Parks and Recreation, Wheeler will play a critical role in emergency operations support and building maintenance, along with managing Juneau’s parks and recreational facilities. He looks forward to serving all parts of the community while ensuring Juneau remains a great place to live, work, raise a family and retire. 

For media inquiries, please contact Parks and Recreation Director Marc Wheeler at [email protected].  

Registration for Parks & Recreation’s Youth Basketball (ages 6-14) opens Monday, November 10 at 8:00 am and closes Saturday, December 20 at 5:00 pm. Registration cost is $55 + tax, increasing to $65 + tax after November 25. Registration is first come, first served; all registrations received after a division is full will be placed on a waitlist.

Scholarships are available: apply online or email [email protected] for more information.

Youth Basketball is about skill development, fun, and sportsmanship for newcomers and returning players. The season runs January 5 – March 7, 2026. Kids will practice once a week for one hour. Games will take place on Saturday between 10 am and 3 pm. Kids must turn 6 years old by February 1, 2025, in order to play.

A pre-season clinic will be offered on December 20 at Dzantik’i Heeni. The clinic will focus on building and assessing players’ skills and helping them get ready for the upcoming season.

For more information and registration, please visit the program website.

For registration questions, contact MJ Goedeken at (907) 586-2635 or [email protected].