When Matt Braun moved his family to Aberdeen earlier this year, it was a homecoming of sorts. Raised in Ipswich, Braun has worked in parks departments across the Midwest throughout his career. Offered the chance to lead the Aberdeen Parks, Recreation, and Forestry Department, he knew it was time to bring his family home.
“Professionally, the chance to lead the department that stewards iconic places like Storybook Land was a dream opportunity,” Braun said.
Braun, a graduate of Northern State University, first learned about city operations through seasonal public works jobs. Those hands-on roles revealed the importance of maintaining community infrastructure. Later, his time with the Fargo Park District solidified his passion.
“I saw the focused, profound impact that a dedicated parks system can have on every aspect of community life, from health and wellness to family bonding and economic vitality,” Braun said.
Today, he’s settling in as a city department head and working to bring fresh ideas to Aberdeen. Braun, his wife Lexi—a Cresbard native—and their two young sons are loving their return to northeast South Dakota.
“Everyone deserves access to safe, beautiful, and fun public spaces.” – Matt Braun
Q: How does your work reflect your passion?
A: My work is a direct extension of my belief that everyone deserves access to safe, beautiful, and fun public spaces. Whether it’s adding a new splash pad, maintaining our trails, or supporting youth and adult sports, I see every project as a way to strengthen our community and create the kind of memories that last a lifetime.
Q: What is something you love about the Aberdeen community?
A: I’ve been so impressed by the deep pride people here have in our public spaces. In meeting with various clubs and user groups, it’s clear everyone wants what’s best for Aberdeen. That pride shows up not just in fundraising, but in the countless volunteer hours and the constructive, solution-oriented way residents approach us with ideas or concerns.
Q: What do you like to do in your free time?
A: Right now, free time is family time. We’re often at a park or playground or checking out one of the many community events or local attractions. It’s the perfect way for me to recharge and stay connected to the very spaces and programs we work to improve.
Q: What’s something the public might not know about the Parks, Recreation and Forestry Department?
A: I think people would be amazed by the sheer scale and strategic planning behind the scenes. Our staff maintains a vast number of locations and facilities, and they do so with incredible skill and efficiency, often extending the life of equipment and infrastructure far beyond its expected lifespan. They’re not just maintaining parks; they’re carefully planning the programs and spaces that our entire region enjoys.
Q: What are some of your goals for the department over the next year?
A: Our first major step is launching a community needs assessment survey, which we do about every decade. This is our most important tool for aligning our long-term capital plans with the community’s priorities for the next ten years. Beyond that, my goals are to fully understand our existing improvement plans and continue building relationships with all the groups that make Aberdeen a great place to live and visit.
Q: Where are some of your favorite places to go in Aberdeen?
A: It’s hard to pick just one! As a dad, Wylie Park is a current favorite. My four-year-old loves the roller coaster and go-carts, so we’ve spent many weekends there since moving back. It’s also been fun rediscovering Aberdeen’s restaurants and shops and seeing how the community has grown and changed.
Q: What are you most proud of?
A: On a personal level, nothing beats the joy and pride of watching my own children learn and grow. Professionally, the most rewarding part of this work is seeing families enjoy the parks, playgrounds, and programs that our teams pour their hearts into. Anytime I hear someone talk about how important a park or a program was to their family, it reaffirms why I chose this career. We’re not just building facilities; we’re building a community’s quality of life. //
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