Title
Prepare Draft Annual Compliance Report Letter to Olympia Metropolitan Park District (OMPD) Board and City Council Regarding 2024 Funding Levels
Recommended Action:
Move to prepare a draft annual compliance report letter to the Olympia Metropolitan Park District (OMPD) Board and City Council regarding 2024 funding levels.
Report
Issue:
To determine whether the Olympia Metropolitan Park District (OMPD) Board and City Council complied with the funding requirements set forth in the OMPD Interlocal Agreement for the year 2024.
Staff Contact:
Owen Thompson, Finance Analyst, 360.570.5811
Presenter(s):
Owen Thompson, Finance Analyst, 360.570.5811
Background and Analysis:
Section 4.1.3 of the OMPD Interlocal Agreement directs the OMPD Advisory Committee to provide an annual report to the City Council and OMPD Board regarding the City’s compliance with specific funding commitments outlined in Section 4.1.1. These commitments include:
• Section (i): The City shall allocate 11% of General Fund revenues to the Olympia Parks, Arts and Recreation Department (OPARD).
• Section (ii): A portion of the 2% utility tax shall be directed to parks and recreation.
• Section (iii): One-half of the 1% Non-Voted Utility Tax shall be allocated for parks purposes.
• Section (iv): The remaining one-half of the Non-Voted Utility Tax must be used for acquiring new parkland and maintaining and developing acquired park properties, with acquisition prioritized when practicable.
Once the draft report is complete, the Interlocal Agreement requires that it be posted on the OMPD website for at least 20 days to allow for public comment before final submission.
Climate Analysis:
Although this item is administrative in nature, it supports the broader management of MPD funds, many of which are used for projects that contribute to climate resilience. For example, MPD funds fully support the Park Stewardship Program, which enhances natural areas and contributes to carbon sequestration and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.
Equity Analysis:
MPD funding enables a wide range of programs and capital investments that benefit the community equitably. The City of Olympia is committed to advancing Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging, and the Parks Department uses a data-informed framework to prioritize park development in underserved areas. The annual compliance review reinforces the City’s accountability in delivering equitable outcomes through the use of these funds.
Neighborhood/Community Interests (if known):
The YES Olympia Parks coalition, which played a key role in the formation of the OMPD, continues to monitor and engage with the activities of the OMPD Board and Advisory Committee. The preparation and posting of the draft compliance report fosters transparency and maintains community trust.
Options:
• Move to authorize the Chair to draft a letter summarizing the findings of the 2024 Annual Compliance Report, to be posted online for public comment.
• Decline to draft a compliance letter at this time.
Financial Impact:
None.
Attachments:
2024 Annual Compliance Report