The City of Muscatine has appointed Nick Gow as its new parks and recreation director.
City Administrator, Matt Mardesen announced the appointment following a competitive selection process, citing Gow’s leadership experience, operational expertise, and commitment to serving the community through parks and recreation.
Gow has spent more than two decades with the Parks and Recreation Department, most recently serving as assistant director. In that role, he oversaw recreation programming, facility operations, seasonal staffing, and department initiatives. He has also served as interim director since the retirement of Richard Klimes earlier this month.
“Nick has demonstrated a strong ability to lead, collaborate, and innovate,” Mardesen said. “His understanding of our community’s needs and his dedication to enhancing recreational opportunities make him the right choice to guide the department forward.”
As director, Gow will oversee park maintenance, recreation programs, special events, aquatic operations, and long-range planning for Muscatine’s parks and recreational facilities. He will also lead efforts to improve accessibility, expand outdoor recreation opportunities, and support community wellness initiatives.
Gow said he is honored to take on the role and continue serving the community.
“Muscatine’s parks and recreation system is a cornerstone of our quality of life,” Gow said. “I’m honored to continue working with our talented staff, volunteers, and partners to build on that foundation and deliver exceptional experiences for residents and visitors.”
A 2004 graduate of Iowa State University with a bachelor’s degree in horticulture, Gow joined the department as athletic facilities manager in February 2005. He was promoted to superintendent of parks in May 2014 and assistant parks and recreation director in June 2025 before being named interim director following Klimes’ retirement.
His appointment became effective July 22.
