Troops give the parks and recreation director an award

Boy Scout Troop 396 and Troop 149 awarded Ken Worcester, the city of West Linn’s parks and recreation director, with their first ever Community Leader Award because of his commitment to community projects at the Monday West Linn City Council meeting.

More than 20 Boy Scouts surprised Worcester with the award and delivered the plaque to a standing ovation in city council chambers. You cannot see a West Linn park without seeing how the Boy Scouts had a hand in it, said Senior Patrol Leader Nick Dunstan.

“The Boy Scouts have a longstanding relationship with the parks and recreation department,” said Scoutmaster Eric Waller. “We appreciate all you’ve done for us.”

Worcester was overwhelmed and grateful for the honor.

“I don’t know if the community understands how much time and effort and thousands of dollars that would otherwise need to be bid on or wouldn’t have happened at all,” Worcester said, commenting on the Boy Scouts’ work in West Linn. “We certainly appreciate all the help we’ve gotten, and I appreciate this honor.”

Mayor John Kovash added: “Thank you for your help with the city and being excellent leaders.”

In addition to handing out the award, Boy Scouts who attended the meeting were working toward a “Citizen in the Community” merit badge. Prior to the city council meeting, scouts met with Kovash and City Manager Chris Jordan.

Boy Scouts broke into groups where they were required to look at a map and point out places such as the fire station, police department and areas in which they live.

The groups also discussed pros and cons of current city issues.

Following the meeting, each Boy Scout is required to volunteer eight hours on a community service project and write a report based on a movie such as “Mr. Smith Goes to Washington” in order to earn the “Citizen in the Community” merit badge.