LEXINGTON, Ky. (LEX 18) — Fayette County voters will find one more question at the end of their ballot next November. The question asks for authorization to create a new tax for public parks.

The tax would create $8 million annually in dedicated funding for more than 400 capital improvement projects at more than 100 Lexington parks, according toVote yes for parksa group formed to support the tax.

“The parks funding referendum is really crucial for Lexington,” said David Lowe, who led the ballot initiative. “The simplest way to think about it is that a ballot referendum equates to dedicated funding for parks.”

“This will allow for investment in every corner of our city,” Lowe added. “All parks in our city will have the opportunity to obtain funding.”

“(The tax) would raise $8 million a year for park improvements, really in every corner of the city,” Lowe continued. “It can be very powerful. Investment can make neighborhoods safer, bring new jobs to town and, of course, improve the quality of life for residents here in Lexington.”

How much would it cost?

The proposed tax is 2.25 cents for every $100 of assessed real estate. According to Vote Yes for Parks, that works out to about $52.88 per year for the average homeowner in Fayette County.

What would it be used for?

The tax would not be used to fund all of the city’s parks services. It would be used for capital improvement projects, such as new courts, trails, facilities, etc.

Lexington Parks Master Plan outlined more than 400 projects that need funding in parks across the county. According to Vote Yes For Parks, $123 million is needed to complete all projects.

“Once (the tax) is in place, we can start tackling those 400 projects that have actually been waiting for about six years,” Lowe said. “So it’s really exciting.”

Don’t parks already receive funding?

According to city budget documents, the parks department’s operating budget is approximately $27 million. That money comes from the city’s general fund and will continue to do so even if the new tax passes.

The city also used more than $24.6 million in American Rescue Plan Act funding for park improvements. But the federal money has now run out.

Borrowing the money would cost the city because of interest, according to Lowe. He also believes fundraising of $8 million a year would be unlikely.

Are people using the parks?

Yes. According to the Parks Master Plan, 90% of Lexington residents use public parks. The plan also shows that more than 57 percent of Fayette County residents visit or use parks at least once a month.

Will the new tax be adopted?

Voters will decide. However, data suggests its likely adoption. According to the Trust for Public Land, public referendums to fund parks have an 83 percent success rate.

Asia Smith, a mother of three who frequents Lexington parks, told LEX 18 News she thinks the tax is worth it.

“Parks are an important part of our lives,” she said. “As a parent, I can’t live without them. They keep me sane and I think it’s important for children to be out in nature.”

She believes the estimated cost of $52.88 is fair, considering how people use the parks.

“I mean, it’s a trip to McDonalds. We can do it,” she said. “We can do it.”

However, not everyone supports this tax. Although there are no groups organized to oppose the tax, some opposition has been expressed online in neighborhood groups.

One person wrote: “Why do landlords have to foot the bill for all this? I will vote no. I hope other owners follow suit. »

Another person wrote: “I’m unsure. I own a house. Property taxes have gone up a lot, and I’m afraid that once this tax goes into effect, there will be nothing to stop them from raising it further. I also wonder why. the current budget cannot be better managed to fund parks. »

They go on to say, “On the other hand, I use parks (pickleball!) and believe investing in our parks, schools and infrastructure is essential. I don’t mind paying for things that will improve the common good. (Even if non-owners don’t pay for it, I think we all benefit from making their lives better). This may be a last minute decision for me. »

When was the last time Fayette County voters voted on a tax?

2004. Voters approve new tax to support Lextran, the city’s public bus service.