Title
Prepare draft annual compliance report letter to Olympia Metropolitan Park District (OMPD) Board and City Council regarding 2023 funding levels
Recommended Action:
Prepare draft annual report letter to Olympia Metropolitan Park District (OMPD) Board and City Council regarding compliance of 2023 funding levels
Report
Issue:
To assess whether the Olympia Metropolitan Park District (OMPD) Board and City Council complied with the funding requirements contained in the OMPD Interlocal Agreement.
Staff Contact:
Joan Lutz, Budget and Finance Manager, 360.753.8760
Presenter(s):
Joan Lutz, Budget and Finance Manager, 360.753.8760
Background and Analysis:
Section 4.1.3. of the OMPD Interlocal Agreement states that the OMPD Advisory Committee shall “provide an annual report to the City Council and OMPD Board regarding the City’s compliance with the funding levels in (i.) through (iv.) in Section 4.1.1.” Section (i.) refers to the requirement that the City allocate 11% of General Fund revenues to the Parks, Arts and Recreation Department (OPARD). Section (ii.) refers to the use of the 2% utility tax revenues and section (iii.) refers to the use of one half of the 1% Non-Voted Utility Tax. Section (iv.) refers to the requirement that the remaining one-half of the Non-Voted Utility Tax be used to acquire new park land and to maintain and develop those acquired park properties, with a priority on acquisition to the extent practicable. The Interlocal Agreement states that once a draft report is complete it shall be posted on the OMPD website to allow public comment for at least 20 days.
Climate Analysis:
MPD funding is utilized to fund projects and programs that benefit carbon sequestration and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Examples include full funding for the Park Stewardship program which manages and enhances natural areas.
Equity Analysis:
The MPD funding provides benefits to the community that would not have been realized without the funding. The City is committed to Equity, Inclusion and Belonging and the Parks Department has adopted a system to prioritize park development in areas with underserved populations.
Neighborhood/Community Interests (if known):
The YES Olympia Parks coalition was heavily involved in the formation of the Olympia Metropolitan Park District and some of their members continue to take a strong interest in the activities of the OMPD Advisory Committee and Board.
Options:
1. Move to authorize the Chair to draft a letter regarding the 2023 Annual Compliance Report that will be posted online for public comment.
2. Do not draft a letter regarding the 2023 Annual Compliance Report.
Financial Impact:
N/A
Attachments:
2023 Annual Compliance Repor