YOUNGSTOWN — While a final decision hasn’t been made, city officials are considering the elimination of all of its park and recreation programs.
“It looks that way,” said Jason Whitehead, director of the park and recreation commission and the mayor’s chief of staff. “Because of the budget deficit we won’t be able to fund programs.”
The city hasn’t finalized its 2010 budget, but officials are looking to reduce a projected $3.5 million deficit in the general fund.
If the city cut its park and recreation programs, all of which lose money, it would save about $1 million, Whitehead said.
The city wants to find companies to manage the Henry Stambaugh Golf Course, the North Side Pool and four baseball fields.
“If we don’t outsource those we won’t open” any of them, Whitehead said.
But Mayor Jay Williams said no final decision has been made on any park and recreation programs, except the cancelation of the 21 and Over Basketball League, which was to start playing last Sunday. He added discussions about cuts are very preliminary.
“We are looking at a number of different scenarios,” Williams said. “There are so many variables. No definitive decisions have been made.”
For the complete story, read Friday’s Vindicator or Vindy.com
Comments
I wonder how this will fit in with the grey to green initiatives? We can't afford park and recreation programs, but we want more parks...
It's hard to keep the kids off the streets if there is nothing for them to do. Looks like they'll get accustomed to street life at an early age.
Mill Creek Park, little league baseball and playgrounds. Who needs em?
Great, now everyone can grow dope in Wick Park without worrying about civil servants cutting it down.
Perhaps these programs wouldn't have to be cut if those in the city making $90,000 a year would pay their property taxes (ahem, Jason Whitehead).
http://ohmahoningpropertymax.governma...
I live in 'the' park district, and I am proud. This town needs to step up and make a move. Pick up the trash in your street and take a walk. Take back your town and stand up for yourself. We've all grown up here, and no matter what, we deserve a good place to stay. This is a good home. I'm going on 40 years old and, I see things happening in this town. Some people need to realize that this is a hometown and not just a place to reconcile differences. Families have grown here, not just to bring them up, but to bring them up in a good place......we call home. Please stay, and help......pick up the trash...look out your windows....check out the cars going in & out of the nieghbor's driveway...this all counts......
All the kids are invited to USANONES house for recreation.
USEless1... "Boardman is the new metropolitan hub."
That has to be one of the funniest things I have ever read. Seriously, you need to get out more.