Public Participation Invited in Budget Process

Like other public agencies, Metro Parks Tacoma faces difficult decisions as we prepare the budget for 2015-16. 

Our biennial budget process helps us assign resources to advance our service goals for the community: fostering active lifestyles, fostering appreciation and stewardship of wildlife and natural resources and fostering appreciation of Tacoma’s culture and heritage.

These goals were developed with public involvement through our 20-Year Strategic Master Plan that guides our direction, and helps us meet our mission.

All residents are encouraged to attend public hearings on budget recommendations:

Public Hearing #1 October 27, 6 pm
Public Hearing #2 November 24, 5:30-6 pm Study Session and First Reading

Information gathered from community surveys in 2013 identified the following priorities:

• Make sure all areas of the city benefit from Metro Parks
• Make sure every neighborhood has a local park in walking distance
• Ensure parks in Tacoma are well-maintained
• Preserve natural areas and open space
• Improve Point Defiance Park and the Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium
• Replace deteriorating amenities and improve safety at parks

To comment on Metro Parks’ goals and priorities, please submit on-line comment by October 31 CLICK HERE TO COMMENT or call (253) 305-1068.

In addition, Metro Parks Tacoma utilizes citizen advisory councils that meet monthly and make recommendations on policy and budget decisions. To get involved in an advisory council, visit MetroParksTacoma.org/GetInvolved or call (253) 305-1068.

Learn more at MetroParksTacoma.org/Budget/