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Hancock County commission approves first reading to dissolve Parks and Recreation Board over access to hotel/motel funds
Summary
The Hancock County Commission approved a first reading (2–1) of an ordinance to dissolve the county Parks and Recreation Board and move hotel/motel tax funds under direct commission administration; opponents said the board still provides valuable community liaison work. The ordinance requires a second reading before taking effect.
The Hancock County Commission on Feb. 12 approved a first reading of an ordinance that would dissolve the Hancock County Parks and Recreation Board of Directors and place hotel/motel tax funds directly under the commission’s administration.
Supporters said the move will streamline access to hotel/motel tax funds and reduce administrative barriers that previously left money unspent. “Placing this fund directly under the commission … would allow community events to continue through a simpler compliant process while giving all community members equal opportunity to apply and support park appreciation,” the Commission President said during the discussion.
Opponents warned that dissolving the board could remove an important liaison between the public and county government. “I think our parks and rec board does a good job,” Commissioner (speaker 5) said, arguing the board organizes events, provides support and contacts, and can supply manpower for activities. That commissioner voted nay on the measure.
County counsel explained the ordinance process and limits: reading the ordinance and passing it once does not make it effective. “This must be done twice as well as a vote so if you’re going to take that vote today … assuming it passes you would then have to do the same at the next meeting … for it to be effective,” County Counsel (speaker 9) said. The transcript indicates the board would remain in place through June 30 even if the ordinance passes a second reading.
The motion carried on the first reading by voice vote, recorded in the meeting as two ayes and one nay. The commission did not take a second reading at the Feb. 12 meeting; a second reading and vote are required before the dissolution would take effect and before funds would be reallocated for direct application under commission procedures.
If the ordinance moves forward at the next meeting, commissioners said hotel/motel tax funds would open immediately for applications under the new process. The commission did not specify a timetable for additional structural changes to parks operations.
Next steps: the ordinance requires a second reading at a subsequent meeting to become effective. The commission scheduled its next regular meeting for Feb. 26, 2026.
