MEMPHIS, Tenn., July 8, 2025 — This week, the Memphis City Council officially confirmed three department directors appointed by Mayor Paul Young earlier this year: Justice Bolden as Director of Memphis Parks, Suzy Hollenbach as Director of Memphis Animal Services, and Melanie Neal as Director of Community Enhancement. Each brings a deep commitment to service and a strategic vision for strengthening neighborhoods across Memphis.
“These confirmations represent more than personnel decisions — they reflect a people-first approach to city government,” said Mayor Paul Young. “Justice, Suzy, and Melanie are all leaders who understand the importance of neighborhood investment, public trust, and high-quality service delivery. I’m proud to have them on our team and grateful to City Council for affirming their appointments.”
Justice Bolden
Director of Memphis Parks
A native Memphian and former City of Memphis employee, Bolden returns home to lead the Parks Division after spending the last several years in senior roles with the City of Oakland. There, he oversaw youth development, aquatics, adult sports, outdoor recreation, and park maintenance operations. Now confirmed as Director of Memphis Parks, Bolden brings nearly two decades of experience in public service, strategic planning, and recreational programming. His leadership is focused on equity in access, operational excellence, and activating parks as pillars of community vitality.
Suzy Hollenbach
Director of Memphis Animal Services
With more than 15 years of experience in animal welfare and a deep history of community advocacy, Hollenbach was appointed in June and officially confirmed this week. She is the founder of All 4s Rescue League, a Memphis-based nonprofit known for outreach, education, and humane care in underserved neighborhoods. Suzy is widely respected for her collaborative approach and results-driven leadership, and she brings a bold, reform-minded vision to MAS — one grounded in transparency, neighborhood responsiveness, and compassion for both people and pets.
Melanie Neal
Director of Community Enhancement
A seasoned City of Memphis team member, Melanie Neal was promoted earlier this year and now formally confirmed to lead the Division of Community Enhancement. Her work is centered on neighborhood quality of life — from blight remediation and illegal dumping to overgrowth and code enforcement. With decades of experience managing frontline operations and interdepartmental coordination, Neal is committed to building cleaner, safer, and more vibrant neighborhoods across Memphis.
These confirmations mark a continued investment in the leadership infrastructure driving Mayor Young’s Era of Yes — a commitment to responsive government, strong communities, and results that matter.
Media Contact:
Arlenia Cole, Media Affairs Manager, City of Memphis
[email protected]