Late Mayor Honea Recognized as APRA Public Official of the Year

Published on September 02, 2025

Whit Honea accepts APRA Outstanding Public Official Award on behalf of father

MARANA- The Town of Marana is proud to announce that late Mayor Ed Honea has been posthumously recognized as the Public Official of the Year for the State of Arizona by the Arizona Parks & Recreation Association (APRA). The honor highlights his years of dedication and support for parks and recreation in the town.

Mayor Honea’s son, Whit Honea, accepted the award on his father’s behalf during the 75th Annual Arizona Parks and Recreation Conference Awards Banquet on August 25, 2025, in Phoenix. Before an audience of 600 attendees, Whit Honea received a standing ovation in honor of his father’s years of leadership and commitment to supporting the Parks and Recreation Department in Marana.

“Having Mayor Honea selected for this State Award is a tremendous recognition for our beloved former Mayor and for the Town of Marana,” said Parks and Recreation Director Jim Conroy.

In addition to honoring Mayor Honea, Marana Parks and Recreation staff played an active role throughout the conference. Several staff members served on the conference planning committee, including:

Laura Parkins – Registration
Jacob Jaeger – Volunteer Chair
Bob Stinson – Chief of Operations
Shelby Scheer – Awards Committee Member

Marana staff also shared their expertise by presenting educational sessions. Olivia Salazar and Tammy Burchett of Team Senior led a session on the “Crafting for a Cause” program.

12 members of the department’s Maintenance Team proudly represented Marana in the Park Maintenance Rodeo, earning top-three finishes in multiple events such as tractor races and a chainsaw assembly competition, ultimately placing third overall.

The Town of Marana is deeply honored by the recognition of Mayor Honea’s legacy and proud of the outstanding contributions of its Parks and Recreation staff at this statewide conference.