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Rock County Board approves dedicated sales-tax funding for parks capital improvements
Summary
The Rock County Board voted 18–9 to authorize an allocation of county sales-tax revenue to create a Parks Capital Improvement Fund, approving annual allocations intended to fund repairs and projects including Sportsman's Park and Heritage Hall.
The Rock County Board of Supervisors approved a resolution on March 12, 2026, to allocate a portion of county sales-tax revenue to a new Parks Capital Improvement Fund aimed at addressing deferred maintenance and planned projects across the county park system.
Supervisor Woodman introduced the resolution, saying the fund would provide predictable annual support for projects long delayed by scarce budgets. The resolution, as presented, requests $500,000 in each of the fiscal years 2027–2029 and $300,000 annually thereafter to create the fund and support park maintenance and capital projects. Woodman called the measure “a well thoughtout plan” and invited department staff to explain the request.
Wayne Jorgensson, speaking for parks staff, outlined immediate needs including a $700,000 project for Sportsman's Park (shelter replacement and utilities), renovations to Heritage Hall (including HVAC and ADA bathroom upgrades), and shelter replacement at Sweet Allen Park. Jorgensson described aging infrastructure, roof and well-pit issues, and parking-lot deterioration as recurring problems that have accumulated over decades.
Supervisors debated the timing and structure of the funding. Opponents argued the county’s reserves and competing priorities (roads, debt service and social services) made setting aside permanent allocations premature; supporters said stable, recurring funds would allow the parks division to plan and leverage grants and donations. Multiple floor amendments were offered — including proposals to reduce the initial figures and to convert the dollar amount to a percentage of sales-tax receipts — but the board rejected those amendments on roll-call votes.
On the final roll call the resolution carried 18 in favor and 9 opposed. The board and administration will place approved funds in a parks capital fund subject to the county’s existing CIP approval process; individual projects will require committee and board approval before disbursement.
Supporters emphasized the projects’ public-benefit case: safer facilities, ADA compliance, and improved park access. Opponents cautioned the board to balance long-term commitments against other county obligations and to preserve flexibility for future boards. The resolution passed; supervisors will return to the committee and board process for approval of specific projects and expenditures.
