Parks Dept. seeks $6 million

LEABURG: A Lane County Parks task force's recommendations to address the maintenance needs, restore critical habitat, and enhance services calls for a $6 million Five-Year Local Option Levy. The details of their recommendations will be on the agenda of a May 23rd meeting.

During the Parks Master Planning process officials say it became clear that prioritizing investment in

key parks was crucial. Feedback from community residents included taking into account the distribution and equity of recreation options, respecting unique assets at specific sites, and building on existing access, infrastructure, and opportunities to improve recreation experience.

In 2019 the Board of Commissioners approved the formation of the Lane County Parks Funding Task Force and charged them with researching and recommending dedicated funding options that ensure long-term financial stability. The task force developed five funding and service priorities: including operations, deferred maintenance, conservation, and habitat restoration, as well as special projects.

In the Special Projects category, they recommended meeting special needs like restoring parks along the McKenzie River, further implementing the Rivers to Ridges Parks & Open Space Vision, providing enhanced beach and river access, and supporting projects that increase accessibility, inclusion or tourism.

The May 23rd meeting will be held from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at McKenzie Fire & Rescue's Leaburg Training Center. For more information go to: tinyurlcom/m745ruw9