Brookhaven approves Parks Bond referendum for November ballot
$40 million would make substantial improvements in six City parks
Brookhaven, GA, July 25, 2018 – At it’s July 24 meeting, the Brookhaven City Council approved a resolution placing a referendum question on the Nov. 6, ballot which, if passed, would authorize up to $40 million in capital improvements to Brookhaven parks and facilities.
The question on the ballot reads, “Shall general obligation bonds for Parks and Park Improvements in an aggregate principal of up to $40,000,000 be issued by the City of Brookhaven, Georgia for the purpose of financing the cost of Citizen driven and City Council approved Parks and Recreational Master Plans and other related park amenities, equipment, and real and personal property useful or desirable in connection the parks therewith?”
The public is encouraged to view the recommended project lists and Park Bond Referendum report, and supporting documentation, on the City’s website here: https://www.brookhavenga.gov/parksrec/page/parks-and-recreation-future-funding
On July 10, the recommended project list of Parks capital improvement projects was submitted to the Mayor and City Council, posted on the City’s website and feedback was solicited from the community. This list followed an analysis of the potential Park Bond Referendum which was submitted June 29. Since October 2017, the Administration has worked with the Parks and Recreation Coalition (PARC) on the future funding for the capital improvement needs in the City’s parks. Feedback from PARC regarding project priorities was included in the final recommended project list.
“With an overall $40 million project list, a Parks Bond referendum, if passed, would not increase Brookhaven property taxes,” said Sigman. “The increase at this level would be offset by the reduction in the City’s property tax rate due to DeKalb County Park Bonds maturing in 2020 as well as the increased EHOST property tax credit in 2019.”
Sigman added, “This bond referendum will implement the park master plans developed with significant public input in 2015 and originally approved by City Council in 2016.
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