YAKIMA, Wash. – Yakima Parks and Recreation is facing significant budget cuts totaling $1.4 million following a failed levy lid lift in November. This reduction poses a threat to several facilities and programs within the community.
Franklin Park, known for hosting the Summer Sunset Concert Series, is just one of the programs and facilities at risk. This event provides families with free music and relaxation each summer. The community now has an opportunity to assist in keeping these cherished programs running.
A 16% reduction in parks maintenance is part of the planned cuts for Yakima Parks and Recreation this year. Wilkinson expressed concern.
“I don’t think the parks will look as good as they have had in the past,” he said.
Wilkinson further explained that there will be a reduction in watering and mowing, along with fewer staff available to maintain cleanliness. This could impact the overall appearance and upkeep of the parks.
Several facilities face closure, including Lions Pool, Harman Senior Center, and the Washington State Fruit Community Center. The Harman Center will be funded through the end of this year, the community center through June, and Lions Pool only until the end of February.
“Parks and rec facilities mean a lot to everyone in our community,” Wilkinson said. He emphasized the importance of these spaces for socializing, exercising, and enjoying the offerings in Yakima Valley.
The Yakima Valley Community Foundation is stepping in to help. The foundation, which has partnered with Parks and Rec on previous projects, has set up donation links on their website. This allows community members to contribute directly to the facilities and programs they value.
“It’s so easy for people to donate specifically to any of these funds that we’ve created,” Wilkinson said. The foundation aims to make the donation process simple, enabling community members to support the parks they love.
Wilkinson reported that they have already begun receiving donations for various facilities and programs within Parks and Recreation.
To donate to a specific program or facility, you can go to one of the following links:
– Parks and Recreation Community Fund
– Washington Fruit Community Center
– Yakima Park Maintenance Fund
