Sand Springs dedicates Inez Kirk park in honor of former City Manager

The City of Sand Springs rededicated the City-Garden Park at 101 East Broadway Street in honor of former City Manager Inez Kirk.

Kirk was the City Manager for Sand Springs from 1977 to 1986 and died in office on January 23, 1986.

Kirk's family and friends planted a pink rose bush in honor of her nickname, the Iron Rose. A group of more than thirty family members, friends, and former coworkers turned out to honor her and celebrated her life with her favorite candy, licorice. 

"This park is very special to me," said current City Manager Elizabeth Gray. "I came here and prayed before I went in for my interview (for City Manager)." 

"I remember what Sand Springs used to be compared to what it is today," said Mayor Mike Burdge. "Inez was very instrumental in changing the character and the integrity of government in Sand Springs. 

The Soccer Complex at Case Community Park was named in her honor for many years, but City leaders decided it would be more appropriate to recognize her with the park next door to the City Hall building she worked at. 

"Mom loved her family, and the people at City Hall were also her family. She loved each and every one," said Kirk's daughter, Pat McConnell. "Her passion was for this city. I can tell you that mom would be overwhelmed by the fact that the City has chosen to honor her like this, and she would be amazed at how many people still remember her and talk about her."