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The original item was published from 10/31/2025 11:23:29 AM to 10/31/2025 11:34:47 AM.

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Posted on: October 31, 2025

[ARCHIVED] Meet the staff

Two photos next to each other, one of Pete and one of Jess

Image of Pete sitting in work vehicle outside in the sunPETE THUNDSTROM

You may have run into Pete at Harmon Park or the Sports Complex. Pete started with WSP as the Zamboni Driver for the ice arena a few years back. Now he’s a seasonal, part time employee who works for the Parks and Rec Department from April - November. Pete helps us keep the grounds at parks looking great by weed whipping, cutting grass, and picking up trash. He also helps prepare for baseball games and tournaments by dragging the ballfields (something that has to be done nearly every day during the season!). Pete’s advice to anyone interested in being a seasonal employee, “work hard, and be on time. It’s a pretty fun job.”

Thank you Pete, for everything you do for our parks and fields in WSP!


Image of Jess outside at Marthaler park near the pollinator prairie JESS HALL

Welcome to Jess, our new Natural Resources, Environment, and Sustainability Specialist. She has a BA in Environmental Science and Conservation Biology and a MS in Environmental Education. Jess grew up in the Twin Cities, finding a love for the environment early on by visiting local parks and natural areas. Previously, she’s worked in roles focused on natural resource management, watershed health, and waste management. In her role at WSP, she will manage public trees, native plantings, stormwater systems and also assist with sustainability initiatives like the Green Step Cities program. Jess will be the staff liaison to the Environmental Committee.

“Coming to work for WSP was an easy choice! I am excited to work for a city with such diversity of parks, places, and people. I am very passionate about combining community and environment through environmental education and am excited to bring new learning opportunities to the residents of WSP. Fun fact- my first ever job was working for City of Woodbury’s Parks and Recreation department as a Pee Wee sports instructor. It’s cool to come full circle and work in a Parks and Recreation department again!

Welcome Jess! We’re lucky to have you!

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