The Tahoe TAP podcast returns with its ongoing focus on the Things, Adventures, and People that define life in the Sierra. Hosts Mike Peron and Rob Galloway are back, highlighting the latest stories and developments shaping the Tahoe community — and this week’s episode arrives at a pivotal moment for South Lake Tahoe residents.

With the grand opening of the city’s new recreation facility set for this Saturday, the show features John Stark, Director of Parks & Recreation for the City of South Lake Tahoe. Stark has been at the forefront of one of the region’s most significant recent investments: the development of the South Lake Tahoe Recreation and Aquatics Center, a project aimed at serving residents of all ages while strengthening community wellness and connection.

Since stepping into the role in May 2023, Stark has guided the department through a period of transformation, bringing both strategic leadership and hands-on experience to the effort. Prior to his work in Tahoe, he served as Director of Parks and Recreation in Manitou Springs, and held key roles with the City of Colorado Springs, including overseeing the renowned Garden of the Gods Park — a 1,300-acre National Natural Landmark known for its striking geology and high visitation.

Stark’s background also includes time as a park ranger in some of the country’s most iconic landscapes, including Denali National Park, Redwood National Park, and Carlsbad Caverns National Park, giving him a deep understanding of how to balance recreation access with environmental stewardship. A California native with longstanding ties to the Tahoe Basin, he also brings an academic background in environmental and natural resources law to his role.

In this episode, Tahoe TAP explores the vision behind the new recreation and aquatics center, the impact it’s expected to have on the community, and how thoughtful planning is shaping the future of public spaces in South Lake Tahoe.