Title
Approval of Resolution Adopting the 2026 Olympia Metropolitan Park District (OMPD) Budget
Recommended Action
Board Treasurer Recommendation:
Move to approve the 2026 OMPD budget resolution and authorize the Board President to sign the resolution.
Report
Issue:
Whether to approve the 2026 OMPD Budget.
Staff Contact:
Sylvana Niehuser, Director of Parks, Arts, and Recreation, 360.753.8068
Presenter(s):
Sylvana Niehuser, Director of Parks, Arts, and Recreation, 360.753.8068
Background and Analysis:
The 2026 Preliminary Olympia Metropolitan Park District (OMPD) Budget was presented to the OMPD Advisory Committee on October 8, 2025 and to the OMPD Board on October 21, 2025. A Public Hearing was held on October 21, 2025.
At the public hearing, staff presented a budget totaling $5,919,004-exceeding the proposed 2026 revenues by $158,791. To address the shortfall, staff initially recommended using the OMPD fund balance. Since then, staff identified available 11% general fund revenues and have revised the OMPD budget to align with the 2026 revenue projections. The updated presentation is attached for reference.
The OMPD Budget is $5,760,213. This includes $3,885,162 for operations, $1,410,000 for capital projects, $450,000 for bond repayment and $15,051 for administrative costs.
Climate Analysis:
MPD funding is utilized to fund projects and programs that benefit carbon sequestration and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Examples include full funding for the Park Stewardship program which manages and enhances natural areas, including planting thousands of native trees and plants each year.
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. The MPD funds the Park Ranger program that focuses on voluntary compliance with park rules and connecting those in need with social services, such as housing and food.
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 its members continue to take a strong interest in the activities of the OMPD Advisory Committee and Board.
Options:
1. Approve the Budget Resolution as proposed.
2. Do not approve the Resolution.
Financial Impact:
The 2026 OMPD Budget is $5,760,213.
Attachments:
Resolution
Revised Budget Presentation