Here at MetroParks, guest safety is one of our top priorities. Ever wonder who is responsible for public safety? Meet Scott Gaviglia, MetroParks of Butler County’s new Chief of Police. Sworn in at the start of the new year, Scott joined the MetroParks team and brings an impressive skillset to our organization. We are thrilled to have him on board as we continue to make our MetroParks safe and enjoyable for all.
We recently had the chance to talk with Scott, learning more about his experience, expertise, and goals in this new role. Let’s delve in further into park safety with our new Chief of Police!
What is your professional background?
“I recently retired as the Police Chief of Union Township in Clermont County, a position I held since 2015. Apart from my position as chief, I have also been an Adjunct Professor of Criminal Justice at the University of Cincinnati for 9 years. Additionally, I am active in volunteer community organizations in Clermont, Hamilton, and Butler counties. In all of these roles I have learned how to communicate effectively with a wide range of people, and this continues to be a transferable skill I have used throughout my career.”
What skills, expertise, and mindset do you bring to MetroParks?
“I am pretty skilled when it comes to technology, and I try to embrace it wherever I can. I feel that it can help with creating solutions and reducing costs. It also helps with efficiency and effectiveness. As Police Chief, I always am wondering how we can make things better and improve current situations. This doesn’t necessarily mean trying to change a million things at once. I find the importance in the small changes that are implemented each day, because over time, they can have lasting impacts.”
Why did you choose to work for MetroParks?
“There are several reasons behind my desire to come to MetroParks. In my past, I spent some time at Hocking College where I discovered my passion for the outdoors. I also really enjoyed the energy and friendliness of Jackie O’Connell, Executive Director of MetroParks. Finally, I was eager to work at MetroParks for the different environment it offered, as I felt that I will be able to apply my skills in a new way and grow my expertise as a police chief even further.”
What are some of your priorities as MetroParks Chief of Police?
“My top priority is always the safety of our visitors and employees. Next is to enhance the guest experience, and this usually happens as a result of maintaining safety in the parks. Combined, we are able to create a memorable park experience for our visitors, which keeps them coming back. Beyond the guests, I also hope to create a great team of officers that is well connected. I want to work together with this team to ensure effectiveness and efficiency, while still making the MetroParks environment a fun place to be.”
What are some of the goals you hope to achieve in this role?
“Overall, my goal is to continue to learn and grow in this position. However, I would also like to earn additional certifications in policing, and possibly introduce new trainings for the police department and MetroParks staff, as we uphold our priority of safety. As I settle into this new position, however, my short-term goal is to fully learn the ins-and-outs of this role as I work to perform my duties to the best of my ability.”
What are some suggestions you have when it comes to staying safe when visiting MetroParks of Butler County?
“The best advice I have for park goers is to always stay aware of your surroundings and the people around you. When you know your surroundings, even when everything is normal, you’ll be able to better notice things out of the ordinary when they do occur. Of course, it is also crucial to lock your car and stow your valuables out of sight to prevent any theft. And when on trails, you should always have some sort of phone or communication device to contact help if a dangerous situation does occur. However, when it comes down to it, the best advice I can offer is to always listen to your instincts. They are almost always correct, so don’t be afraid to remove yourself from a situation or call for help.”
Fun facts? Anything else you would like us to know about you?
“I have several hobbies and interests outside of my career. For example, I have coached boys basketball and baseball for several years. More recently, I have taken up distance running. I also am currently a board member of the Animal Adoption Foundation in Butler County. But overall, I just love to learn and try new things, which is why I am so excited for this position with MetroParks.”
Welcome Chief Gaviglia to MetroParks of Butler County!