Supporters of a designated property tax to go for Lexington public parks made their case Wednesday. The backers of the proposal chose the 120-year-old Woodland Park to formally unveil their “Vote Yes for Parks” campaign.
Lexington voters will be asked this November to consider the new tax, estimated to generate about $8 million annually. The funds would go for park infrastructure, not new park property or salaries. Former Lexington City Council Member Jennifer Mossotti said there are maintenance needs along with interest in new equipment in the 100 parks.
“Just more facilities because our population is growing..over 300,000..about 330,000. So more amenities for these parks. I know they’re changing a lot of the tennis courts and they’re adding pickleball courts. So, that’s a big huge push,” said Mossotti.
As far as the ask for a new tax, Mossotti said there’s currently a designated tax for the library and mass transit. She says use of parks is higher than either of the two currently funded entities.
On hand to officially announce the “Vote Yes for Parks” campaign was Seedleaf Executive Director Christine Smith. The director of the community gardening and composting organization said Seedleaf ties in well with parks.
“Had high school students build raised beds at Coolavin Park this past summer. So, they are multi-tiered so people in wheelchairs can get to the lower levels and people who can stand and walk can go to the taller levels,” said Smith.
Parks and Recreation Advisory Board Sustainable Funding Subcommittee Chair David Lowe said there’s not one priority need among the projects. When asked about any public reaction to a new tax, Lowe said supporters of the effort don’t have resistance. He said there’s widespread support among residents and businesses.
If adopted through the public referendum, the yearly cost for the average homeowner would be about $52. The master plan identified $123 million in capital needs across the hundred parks. Jennifer Mossotti works in commercial real estate. She said potential economic-driver companies put a high level of interest in community lifestyle including use of public parks.
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