A recent posting on Front Porch Forum (by Michael Crane), relating to Penny for Parks, includes a number of unsupported statements and misinformation. As a Parks & Rec Commissioner, I would like to respond to some of the specific points. I believe that if voters take the time to carefully consider the Penny for Parks proposal they will agree with the entire Parks and Rec Commission and every City Councilor that this is a good plan that should be supported.

Allow me to respond to some specific points.

1) The funds from the Penny for Parks dedicated tax are in fact dedicated with specific allocations budgeted for various capital needs, ex. playground replacement, parking lot and road repaving and improvement, building updates, waterfront improvements, bike path, community gardens, etc. The planned expenditures are specifically detailed in the proposal which may be seen at pennyforparks.blogspot.com or enjoyburlington.com.

2) A permanent dedicated tax is an accepted and appropriate method of funding these types of capital needs. We have dedicated taxes for the library, open space, fire / police, streets, and housing. An additional dedicated tax is being recommended for streets. Parks capital needs are no different and a dedicated tax will provide the long term funding to maintain this assets that will need to serve Burlington, for a very long time.

3) The Penny for Parks will be used for capital support for existing infrastructure. This is where there is the greatest need. There are other funds that are used for new facilities, like the Armory or land acquisition, like the Conservation Legacy fund, but these cannot funds be used to repair our existing deteriorating infrastructure.

4) Parks and Rec manages its budget and our tax dollars well. It generates $3M in revenue (75% of the budget), which is exceptional for a community of our size. These revenues are important to maintain because they effectively subsidize the cost of parks and rec facilities and services to residents. If we don't maintain the assets that generate the income, we will have lower quality services at a higher cost.

5} The Parks & Rec Commission has a very good relationship with the City Council. All 14 Councilors support Penny for Parks and their input in developing the proposal was critical. We are asking Burlington residents to support this measure because it is a tax increase which requires voter approval.

6) The Parks & Rec Commission is committed to providing an exceptional level of recreational facilities and programs which are affordable and accessible to all Burlington residents. In doing so, we will actively seek public input and consider all relevant issues, as we are doing in the case of the disc golf proposal at Leddy. Despite our best efforts, not every resident will be satisfied. But let's remember, Burlington parks serve all residents and the use and control of these assets should not be directed by those with special interests and/or who might be personally affected by a proposal for park use.

The Penny for Parks proposal is one that has been evaluated carefully. It is a good plan to maintain our park system. I hope you will evaluate the proposal on its merits. Thank you