Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Charter Amendment Funding topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Board raises concerns over proposed charter language that could let cities use up to 30% of capital for operations
Summary
Board members questioned proposed charter amendments that would let parks-related capital be used for operating purposes (language cited 'up to 30%'); members warned this could reduce funds for capital projects while staff noted the long-standing set-aside has enabled major facilities including the 'core.'
During discussion of proposed charter changes, board members debated new language that would expand the parks board’s advisory authority and allow a larger share of capital funds to be used for operations.
Committee member (S1) said the proposed wording was concerning because it said "up to 30% of the capital could be used for operating," and warned that allowing that could reduce the city’s capital available for projects the parks system needs. "I was concerned that that could reduce our capital by 30%," S1 said, noting that an existing provision already allowed 15% for programming.
Committee member (S6) described the set-aside funding’s history and defended its role in creating major park assets. "What happens in Green with the set aside for parks is truly unique and has resulted in just an incredible park system," S6 said, and noted the core facility would likely not have been built without the set-aside. S6 and others discussed rough calculations about how larger percentages could alter available funds; staff repeatedly noted the item is under review and no final decisions have been made.
Board members asked staff to forward written comments on the proposed charter language so they could provide input to the Charter Commission; staff said they would circulate the material and notify the board about the commission's meeting schedule. The board did not take a formal vote on charter language at this meeting.
