Meet the Recreation Staff

Director

E-mail Heather Buller

Heather brings more than 13 years of experience in the Parks and Recreation industry to the La Vista Recreation Department. She began her career in Parks and Recreation with the City of Harker Heights, Texas in 2009. 

Heather has a strong passion for recreation and leisure programming and services. She is excited to use her background in events, athletics, aquatics and park planning to further enrich La Vista’s recreation offerings.

Heather is originally from Illinois, although she did grow up all over the world as her father served in the Air Force. She graduated from the University of Nebraska – Lincoln with a degree in Hospitality, Restaurant and Tourism Management.

Watch for more from Heather in the future and say “hello” if you see her at the Community Center. 

Assistant Director

Email David Karlson

Biography

David began working for the City of La Vista in June 1996 as the Assistant Recreation Director. David has a Bachelor of Arts degree in Community Recreation from the University of Northern Iowa.

He previously worked as Program Director for the city of Marshalltown, Iowa YMCA from 1988 to 1989. From there, he was Community Center Director for the Des Moines Parks & Recreation Department from 1989 to 1996. For 12 years David has directed the youth and adult sports recreation programs. As of 2008, he is working on special events and programs for the Recreation Department.

Youth and Adult Sports Manager

Email Denny Dinan

Senior Services Manager

Email Kaily Stanley

Biography

Kaily Stanley began working in the City of La Vista Recreation Department as the Senior Services Manager in April 2020. Kaily has a bachelor’s degree in Therapeutic Recreation from the University of Northern Iowa. For the past 13 years, she has worked as a Recreation Therapist in local nursing homes.

As the Senior Services Manager, Kaily assists in the distribution of meals to seniors at the La Vista Senior Center, implements an engaging senior recreation program, and manages the La Vista Special Services Bus program.

Administrative Assistant

Email Sue Tangeman

Biography

Sue began working for the City of La Vista in September 1999 at the Recreation Department Her duties include front office management, administrative support to the Recreation Department, Senior Center, Senior Bus service, Pool, and facility rentals for the Community Center and City parks.

In February 2008, Sue was awarded an Outstanding Service Award. Prior to her employment with the City, Sue was a Sales Coordinator for Nebraska Tractor, then office manager at Culligan Water.