Title
Election of Olympia Metropolitan Park District Officers
Recommended Action
Committee Recommendation:
Move to elect the President and Vice-President of the Olympia Metropolitan Park District (OMPD) Board.
Report
Issue:
Whether to elect a President and Vice-President to serve as officers on the Olympia Metropolitan Park District (OMPD) Board.
Staff Contact:
Laura Keehan, Director of Parks Planning & Maintenance, 360.570.5855
Presenter(s):
Laura Keehan, Director of Parks Planning & Maintenance
Background and Analysis:
Article III, Section 3.3 of the OMPD Charter establishes that the Board shall have three officers: President, Vice-President (who also serves as the Clerk), and Treasurer. The OMPD Treasurer is the City’s Finance Director, Mike Githens. According to the Charter:
“The President and Vice-President shall be elected annually by the Board from among its members.”
The requested action will fulfill that requirement through the election of Board officers for the upcoming term.
Climate Analysis:
The election of OMPD officers indirectly supports climate-related goals, as the Board oversees the allocation of MPD funding. These funds support environmentally beneficial programs, such as the Park Stewardship Program, which contributes to carbon sequestration and the enhancement of natural areas, helping to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Equity Analysis:
MPD funding has enabled programs and projects that support equitable access to parks and services, particularly in historically underserved neighborhoods. The City’s commitment to Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging is reflected in how park projects are prioritized and implemented. The election of officers ensures continued leadership and oversight in alignment with these principles.
Neighborhood/Community Interests (if known):
The YES Olympia Parks coalition, which played a key role in establishing the OMPD, remains engaged in Board and Advisory Committee activities. Officer elections are of interest to community stakeholders who value strong and effective leadership of the Park District.
Financial Impact:
There is no direct financial impact associated with the election of OMPD Board officers. However, it is important to note that the Olympia Metropolitan Park District (OMPD) levy collects approximately $5.7 million in annual revenue, which funds parks, arts, and recreation programs, as well as facility maintenance and capital development. Board leadership plays a key role in overseeing the approval and strategic allocation of these funds.
Options:
1. Move to elect the President and Vice-President of the OMPD Board.
2. Postpone the election of officers to a future meeting.
3. Take other action
Attachments:
None.