Genetin said she and Buster went for a walk in the park almost every day before the parks district closed its parks after voters rejected a levy in November.
When she read online Thursday that the parks were re-opening Friday, she said, “I knew where we were going (Friday), and we don’t care if it rains or snows or whatever.”
The weather was brisk but pleasant as parks officials thanked the community that rallied to help them re-open the parks with donations and volunteer labor.
They announced a slew of fundraisers to help them stay open, such as a bluegrass concert May 7 and a 5k run/walk May 22.
But as they took down the “no trespassing” signs at the George Rogers Clark Park entrance, they handled them carefully, noting they may need to repaint them to use in a levy campaign in the fall.
Parks leaders said that fundraisers, donations and volunteers won’t be enough to operate the parks indefinitely as they expect more state funding cuts.
“Our financial situation remains dire and the re-opening is a band-aid that’ll allow families to enjoy park amenities until future funding can be secured,” said parks board President Walt Szczesny.
When asked if the parks board will seek another levy this November, Szczesny gave a “guarded yes,” saying there was much to be discussed before that decision is made.
Contact this reporter at (937) 328-0374.
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