Clay Downing Named CPRD Superintendent

NEWBERG, Ore. — The Chehalem Parks and Recreation District (CPRD) announced Jan. 27 that City of Newberg Planning Manager Clay Downing will fill the vacancy left by the retirement of Don Clements, who served in the role since 1985.

“Of course, it’s kind of daunting—he did a lot at CPRD,” Downing said. “But I’m choosing to see how exciting it is that we get to continue the work he started. This is an opportunity for change and to build on a strong foundation.”

Downing, who officially begins as CPRD superintendent Feb. 18, is stepping into what was one of the most entrenched roles in the region. In his 40 years as superintendent, Clements developed systems, processes, and operations that evolved over decades of service—for better or worse, said CPRD Board President Matt Smith.

“I think understanding the community and being involved in some of the projects we’re working on—the fact that he was on the city side of those—gave him a real leg up,” Smith said. “Plus, physically being here and understanding this community helps us see that he’s here for the long haul and invested in the district.”

After Clements’ resignation in September 2024, Smith said the CPRD Board of Directors sought someone who prioritized communication and transparency. Clements operated with what Smith described as an “old-school mentality,” relying on an outdated understanding of the district’s needs and some antiquated handshake deals.

“A criticism I hear about CPRD is that it’s a ‘good ol’ boys club,’” Smith said. “That era is done. Now our focus is on transparency and accountability. Clay is a superior communicator, and he’s the right guy to bring us to a place where government isn’t a secret and people will really know what’s going on.”

Smith said that after the announcement, he heard mostly positive feedback, though some critics pointed out Downing’s lack of direct experience in a parks district.

“He’s a lifelong learner,” Smith said. “He’s already identified trainings and continuing education he needs to work with our partners. He’s highly educated—well beyond what we’d require or expect for the position.”

Downing acknowledges his lack of direct experience. Raised in Carmel, Indiana, he graduated from Carmel High School before attending Indiana University, earning a degree in biology. After graduation, he volunteered with the Peace Corps in Nicaragua as an environmental education specialist, then worked for The Nature Conservancy in California and helped manage an outdoor activities company. He later returned to school at California Lutheran University, where he earned a master’s degree in public policy and worked for Ventura County before becoming the planning manager for the City of Newberg in 2022.

“[Newberg City Manager] Will Worthey recommended this to me,” Downing said, closing a book titled The Human Side of Budgeting by Scott Douglas Lazenby. “I’m the first to admit that budgeting is not my number one strength. But I hope to bring an outsider’s perspective to how the current budget operates and how it can improve. That’s how I’m approaching every aspect of this new role—with curiosity and by leaning on the great resources around me.”

Downing said his first priority is focusing on the transition process and early opportunities to strengthen the district. He plans to take a close look at the budget because, as he puts it, the budget directly reflects the board’s priorities and serves as a tool for accountability.

“I want us to be able to talk about where we’re successful, what we’re doing well, figure out what our service expectations are and be able to tell people whether or not we’re meeting them,” Downing said. “If we are, great. If we’re not, we need to identify the gap with the public and make a plan for fixing it.”

Next, he plans to evaluate active projects, such as Sanders Estate and the Newberg-Dundee Bypass Trail, to ensure progress continues and grant funding remains secure despite inflation. This work will be in addition to managing existing CPRD offerings and programming at the Chehalem Aquatic Center, The Chehalem Armory and various parks throughout the district.

“I think Clay has the right temperament,” Smith said. “We’re at a pivotal point for CPRD, and he understands his role. It’s exactly what he did for the City of Newberg. The council wanted to fix some issues with the planning department around customer service and communication. He did that over there, and he can do that here too.”

The City of Newberg is now seeking applicants for the planning manager role vacated by Downing, a position City Manager Will Worthey said may be difficult to fill given Downing’s proficiency and mindset.

“I try to console myself with the fact that the loss of Mr. Downing will be to the overall advantage of the city and broader community,” Worthey said. “However, we will miss him incredibly. There may not be sufficient superlatives to describe Clay’s sterling qualities and incredible work ethic. He proved time and again to be an inspiring leader, a deep thinker and an innovation-focused reformer. In addition, he is tough-minded, resourceful and a genuinely nice human being.”