City of Knoxville Office of Neighborhoods has named Officer Eric Parks the recipient of its inaugural Officer Liaison of the Year Award. 

Parks was nominated by four residents of the Norwood neighborhood, who emphasized Parks’ regular attendance of Neighborhood Watch and Norwood Homeowners meetings, his willingness to answer calls and respond to questions even when he is off duty, and his overall dedication to the community and its residents. 

“KPD is lucky to have this officer who goes beyond the call of duty,” one neighbor wrote in his nomination form. 

Finalists were: 

• Officer Jonathon Clabough, Vestal Community Organization; 
• Officer Adam Barnett, South Haven; 
• Officer Stephen Mercado, Cold Springs Neighborhood Watch; and
• Officer Tyler Wiggins, Lindbergh Forest

The Office of Neighborhoods initiated the award to recognize the efforts of police officers and the neighborhood groups who work together to keep neighbors informed, safe and engaged in activities that strengthen communities. 

“Officer Liaisons like Officer Parks are integral to neighborhoods,” said Office of Neighborhoods Coordinator Debbie Sharp. “We’re pleased to shine a positive light on Officer Parks’ dedication to Norwood neighbors and their efforts to work closely with law enforcement to make their neighborhoods as safe and enjoyable as they can be.” 

The Office of Neighborhoods accepted nominations between July 23 and Sept. 16, 2019 and plans to give out the award annually as a way to recognize KPD Officer Liaisons who give back to the community by hearing neighbors’ concerns, following up on issues, and continually doing their best to keep the city’s neighborhoods safe.

Officer Parks will be recognized with a proclamation at Norwood’s National Night Out celebration on Oct. 1, 2019. 

For additional information on the Office of Neighborhoods, visit KnoxvilleTN.gov/Neighborhoods.