Breaking News: Jacob Murphy’s Open Letter

All,

I have been debating as to whether I should make a statement about the recent events pertaining to myself and Burdette Park. Ultimately I have decided that there are some things that I need to say and that you deserve to hear.

First, I’m so thankful. I’m thankful to have had the chance to work with so many talented and wonderful people that are employed by Vanderburgh County. All current and former members of the Burdette Park Advisory Committee have been an absolute pleasure to work with. Our ability to debate, plan and conquer a multitude of the challenges that have faced the department over the past two years is worthy of celebration. Without the committee’s passion and enthusiasm for Burdette Park, it would have been difficult to accomplish most anything. We make a great team. I am confident that you will show the next manager of Burdette Park the same support and grace that was given to me.

Former Commissioners Abell, Melcher and Kiefer put their faith in me to lead Burdette Park. I cannot thank them enough for seeing my potential and believing in me.

I want to thank Commissioner Ungethiem for giving me a chance to prove myself to him and allowing me the opportunity to earn his respect. Bruce is a fine public servant and an intelligent man that I have grown to admire.

Commissioner Shoulders has been nothing short of supportive of me and has always been willing to listen. I know the decision to appoint Pat Tuley and replace myself as park manger was not done without intense deliberation and good intentions.

Commissioner Musgrave is a commanding and charismatic leader, I wish I had been afforded the opportunity to earn her trust.

I want thank Joe Harrison, Jr. for treating me as a capable administrator. He was always willing to entertain my ideas, questions and concerns with tact and respect.

Pat Tuley has been a great friend to me over the past couple years and given me support, advice, and encouragement on numerous occasions without hesitation. Pat is a great man. There is no doubt he would have done a phenomenal job managing Burdette had he accepted his appointment to the position.

I want to thank the community for their support. I cannot count the number of friends, acquaintances and complete strangers that have reached out to me with sincere concern. It has truly been humbling. As a transplant to Evansville, I have never felt more accepted.

Lastly, there is no combination of words that can adequately thank Burdette Park’s Assistant Manager, Jerry Grannan. He accepted, respected and befriended me without reservations. Jerry and I have spent countless hours discussing life’s endeavors. He is without a doubt the hardest working man I have met. I am lucky to have had Jerry as a coworker and I’m blessed to call him my friend.

I would welcome the opportunity to be retained by Vanderburgh County in some capacity should it be offered to me by the Board of Commissioners. I love working at Burdette Park, but I am confident that my talents and skills are transferable.

Kindest regards,

Jacob A. Murphy
Burdette Park | Executive Director
5301 Nurrenbern Rd.
Evansville, IN 47712
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