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Parks staff submits 2027 budget request as visitation and revenues climb
Summary
Staff presented the 2027 budget request including $20,000 increases to hourly wages, $35,000 for building insurance, power cost increases, and a proposal to add a full‑time marketing/events coordinator and a second full‑time naturalist; the board discussed funding options and fallback arrangements.
Park staff (Staff member) presented the department’s 2027 budget submission and outlined several adjustments intended to cover rising operating costs and support growing programming. The staff request includes $20,000 for hourly wages in the general fund, $35,000 for building liability and comprehensive insurance, and an $18.50 increase tied to power costs; staff also asked the county council to consider additional appropriations this year to cover increased insurance and energy spending.
"Park visitation is up 33%. Sunset Hills alone is up 20%. Brinkus is up 70%," Staff member said, using visitation and revenue gains to argue the department can support some new roles. The budget proposal includes a new full-time marketing/events and community engagement coordinator and a reclassification to create a second full‑time naturalist to expand field capacity.
Board members discussed fallback funding arrangements if the county resists the new position, including splitting the cost 50/50; staff noted current cash balances are strong (above $400,000 and potentially nearer $500,000 by year‑end) and proposed phasing funding if needed. No final county‑level appropriation was made at the meeting; staff will present the package in pre‑budget sessions later in the summer.
