Canby City Council discusses budget cuts and park maintenance challenges

The City of Canby Budget Committee Meeting on May 22, 2025, highlighted significant budgetary decisions impacting local services, particularly in the Parks Department and community engagement initiatives.

A key discussion point was the funding for police community events, with Councilor Patton advocating for continued financial support to foster positive interactions between citizens and law enforcement. "It's important that the citizens interact with the police on a regular basis," he emphasized, underscoring the need for events that promote community safety without intimidation. The committee confirmed that existing events would not be affected by the budget cuts, ensuring ongoing community engagement.

In a related vein, the Parks Department faced substantial budget reductions, totaling around $51,000. Cuts included a reduction in contract services and maintenance, which raised concerns about the upkeep of local parks. Councilor Davis expressed reservations about eliminating a vacant parks position, citing the increasing demand for park maintenance and the upcoming addition of Dodds Farm Park. "Parks are very, very important to the community of Canby," he stated, urging the committee to reconsider the impact of staffing cuts on park maintenance.

The committee also discussed the need for additional parking at Maple Street Park, a safety concern due to heavy usage during events. Councilor Davis called for this issue to be prioritized in future budgets, highlighting the potential risks to children and pedestrians.

Overall, the meeting underscored the delicate balance the City of Canby must strike between budget constraints and the need to maintain essential community services and safety. As the budget process continues, the committee will need to address these concerns to ensure the well-being of Canby's residents and the preservation of its public spaces.