About Palm Harbor Parks & Recreation
Palm Harbor is an unincorporated area within Pinellas County. Palm Harbor Parks and Recreation (PHPR) is a nonprofit organization that oversees some county properties. We, along with the Palm Harbor Library, are overseen by a volunteer board called the Palm Harbor Community Service Agency (PHCSA, pronounced Fix-sa). PHCSA was established in 1985 according to Pinellas County Ordinance 85-28, to provide library and recreation services to the Palm Harbor Community Services District residents, a municipal services taxing unit. The 0.5 mills ad valorem tax, voted on by the residents of Palm Harbor, is allocated to library and recreation services. Any additional funds needed to operate are raised independently by each entity.
- Click the link below to read Pinellas County Ordinance
- Pinellas County Ordinance, Article VI. - Palm Harbor Community Services District.
PHCSA Meeting Agendas
PHCSA is dedicated to the proficient management of the essential funds allocated to the Palm Harbor Recreation and Library departments. The Palm Harbor Community Services Agency (PHCSA) Board of Directors comprises an eight-member team made up of two directors appointed by the Pinellas County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) (including the Chair), one director appointed by the East Lake Community Library Advisory Board, one director appointed by the East Lake Youth Sports Association, one director appointed by the Palm Harbor Library Advisory Board, and one director appointed by the Palm Harbor Parks & Recreation Advisory Board. Each director serves a two-year term and must be a qualified elector of Pinellas County. PHCSA meets on the third Wednesday of each month. Meetings are open to the public.
Parks and Recreation Origin and History
Our Story – Palm Harbor Recreation League
The journey of recreational activities in Palm Harbor started with a dedicated group of volunteers who wanted to create safe and fun play spaces for everyone. In 1980, these passionate individuals founded the Palm Harbor Recreation League. By 1985, the league became a key part of the Community Services Agency (PHCSA), helping to shape and enhance leisure services for our lovely community. Since then, Palm Harbor Recreation has been proudly managing several fantastic facilities throughout the Palm Harbor area.
Welcome to The Centre!
Opened in 1999, our delightful Senior Center quickly became a beloved hangout for locals, thanks to the wonderful Penny for Pinellas program, generous state grants, and a great contribution from the North Pinellas Community Action Council. Although we faced a few financial bumps along the way due to uneven funding, our spirit remained strong!
Meanwhile, our friendly Parks and Recreation Department was in a cozy little house that just couldn’t keep up with all the activities. Seeking a partner to help meet their needs, an inspiring idea sprouted: a merger! Parks and Recreation took over the Senior Center’s operations, ensuring that The Centre not only flourished but also allowed Parks and Recreation to manage our local fields.
In 2004, this fantastic partnership between the Senior Center (The Centre) and Parks and Recreation blossomed beautifully, creating a win-win situation!
Centre Field
Just behind The Centre, you’ll find an amazing full-size football and soccer field! It’s well-maintained and often enjoyed by local schools and clubs for their sports programs. This adaptable field is also open to everyone who wants to stay active or sharpen their skills. And if you’re thinking about hosting a game or event, it’s available for rent — the perfect spot for sports enthusiasts of all ages!
Putnam Park
Since 1993, this lovely county park has been a treasured gem of Palm Harbor Recreation, named in honor of Steven J. Putnam, a devoted volunteer who played an essential role in our Recreation League.
Sunderman Park
This lively multi-sport complex came to life thanks to the passionate local residents who came together for fundraising and led the construction efforts, with support from several generous local businesses, creating a fantastic recreational playground!
Pop Stansell Park
Joining the Palm Harbor Parks and Recreation family in 2012, this park boasts a rich history and spans a beautiful 5 acres. It features a convenient boat ramp that leads to the Intracoastal Waterway, alongside a charming fishing pier.
This lovely 5-acre waterfront park is perfect for a day out, with a boat ramp leading into the Intracoastal Waterway and a delightful fishing pier!
Rheba Sutton White Chapel and Harbor Hall
Tucked away next to a lovely reception hall in Historic downtown Palm Harbor, this historic chapel is cherished in our community.
As part of a wonderful downtown revitalization effort, Pinellas County acquired the property in 1999, lovingly restored the Chapel, and built the gorgeous Harbor Hall next door, which beautifully complements the historic chapel. Since 2015, Palm Harbor Parks and Recreation has been thrilled to manage these charming event venues!
We are confident that Palm Harbor Parks & Recreation, along with its facilities, parks, and multi-sport complexes, will continue to be a vital part of the Palm Harbor community. We believe that it will maintain a strong and mutually beneficial relationship with the community that established it.