Summit County's North Summit Special Recreation District is proposing a significant property tax increase to support essential staffing needs and new facilities. During the recent County Council meeting on October 11, 2023, the board discussed a plan to raise property taxes by $75,000, marking a 78.5% increase. This adjustment translates to an additional $2.37 for every $100,000 of taxable property value.

The proposed tax hike aims to fund the hiring of a full-time director and a part-time operations coordinator, addressing the current reliance on a volunteer board for administrative tasks. Terry Rich, chair of the North Summit Recreation District, emphasized the necessity of this change, citing high turnover rates and the challenges faced by part-time employees who struggle to support their families on limited hours.

Rich reassured community members that the increase is minimal and necessary for the district's growth and operational efficiency. He noted that while the community has recently faced tax increases for fire services, this proposal is aimed at ensuring the recreation district can effectively manage its expanding responsibilities without further burdening residents.

The council is expected to deliberate on this proposal further, with the goal of enhancing recreational services and facilities for the community. The district has successfully secured grants for new facilities, minimizing the need for tax increases in the past, but Rich indicated that staffing support is now critical for future success.