Levy is necessary for county parks growth
Letter to the Editor,
It has been 33 years since the start of the Wayne County Park District. Through donations, grants (local, state and federal) and tons of volunteer labor, the park district has been able to develop a 76-acre nature park sanctuary on the east side of Wooster called Barnes Preserve. It is a diverse environment that beckons visitors to experience the relaxation of nature, particularly for people with mobility restrictions. The Barnes Preserve has served the community since 2015 and continues to be a popular destination.
The phenomenal success of Barnes Preserve opened up offers of other donated properties. Excited as we are about expanding, the realization that we have no operating monies caused us to turn down the offers or ask for time. It takes money to maintain properties with labor and equipment. While grants are great for projects, they do not allow for operating money.
The time has come for the Wayne County Park District to seek your support in helping us in providing some much-needed operating monies. The decision was made this spring to place a small levy on the ballot this fall for us to continue and expand. I kindly ask for your support as our goal is to provide green space and outdoor opportunities across the county. Thank you.
Carole Van Pelt
Wooster
Editor’s note: Carole Van Pelt is a commissioner of the Wayne County Park District.