Elections are right around the corner! The Friends of Grand Rapids Parks have developed the following guide to help break down the “Parks, Pools & Playgrounds” proposal voters will see on the ballot.

A quick guide to the parks millage proposal

• This millage would be in place permanently, providing reliable and on-going funding (the parks millage passed in 2013 expires in 2020).
• The new rate would increase the average homeowner’s payment by about $1.38 per month.
• If passed, the City will receive $5 million per year to invest in our parks.
• Funds will be used to continue capital improvements (such as those accomplished through the 2013 millage), keep all GR pools and splash pads open, provide recreational programming, and allow for more consistent maintenance.
• Friends of Grand Rapids Parks receives no millage funds for its projects or operations – we will still rely on donor support!
• We will continue to work with residents to identify and recommend improvements to the City and the Parks Advisory Board, which develops the proposed Parks and Recreation budget annually.

Visit Yes GR Parks campaign site for more information. If you’d like to join the advocate for parks and trees, join FGRP at 9:35 a.m. Nov. 2 to help canvas neighborhoods and provide voters with literature about the proposal. More info here.

Has your neighborhood park made huge leaps since the 2013 millage was approved? How do you imagine our city parks transforming? Share your thought by emailing info@friendsofgrparks.org.