Public Comment Opportunities for 2013 MPRB Budget

From an October 25 e-newsletter:

PROPOSED 2013 MINNEAPOLIS PARK BOARD BUDGET FOCUSES ON FISCAL RESPONSIBILITY, SERVICE DELIVERY AND MAINTAINING PARK SYSTEM

Public comment opportunities scheduled Nov. 7 and 28, Dec. 12

The Superintendent’s Recommended 2013 Budget for the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board (MPRB) focuses on maintaining park services and facilities, strategically addressing financial and operational challenges, and improving organizational efficiency and service delivery.

“The proposed operating budget reflects a zero percent property tax increase and focuses on maintaining what we have, with prioritized budget package options for Board consideration that would fund specific programs and services up to the maximum of a three percent property tax levy, ” explained Superintendent Jayne Miller. “It reflects the Park Board’s commitment to sound financial management and strategic long-term planning. In 2013, we are investing in neighborhood and regional parks, technology and equipment. We are expanding community engagement to ensure all residents have access to programs and services that are designed based on community input, participation and the diverse needs of residents.”

The Superintendent’s Recommended 2013 Budget totals $62,794,451 for the general operating fund and $10,245,866 for the enterprise operating fund. Initiatives launched by Superintendent Miller in 2012 to align revenue and expenses to department activity areas are continued in her recommended budget. While the organization’s budget and personnel numbers remain similar to 2012, positions and budget accounts have been realigned in the recommended 2013 Budget to meet the needs of the community and the organization. 

According to Miller, the 2013 Recommended Budget reflects the Park Board’s commitment to service delivery and incorporates organizational performance improvements.

“We are committed to assessing and improving our work processes,” Miller explained. “The proposed 2013 Budget includes implementation of initiatives developed in 2012 to improve worker safety, internal service coordination and external service delivery.”

The proposed budget and other budget-related documents are available for viewing at www.minneapolisparks.org (select left link “About MPRB” then “Park Board Budget”) or by calling 612-230-6400. The public may comment on the proposed budget during the following times:

Nov. 7, Public Comment Session – Administration and Finance Committee meeting, MPRB Headquarters, 2117 West River Road, Minneapolis. The Committee meeting will follow the Board’s regular meeting at 5 pm

Nov. 28, Public Comment Session – Regular Board meeting, MPRB Headquarters, 2117 West River Road, Minneapolis, at 5 pm

Dec. 12, Public Hearing – City of Minneapolis public hearing on City levy and 2012 Budget, City Hall, Council Chambers Room 317, 350 South 5th Street, Minneapolis, at 6 pm

The Superintendent’s recommended budget outlines initiatives aimed at meeting the Board’s strategic goals and budget frameworks, including:

• Focus resources on maintaining the park system and address issues of aging infrastructure, especially in neighborhood parks. Use Comprehensive Plan as guidance for maintenance of natural areas and boulevard trees.

• Become a national leader in issues of sustainability, including collaborative efforts with the City Council, Mayor, County, local business leaders, and the public, making our city greener, cleaner and energy efficient.

• Focus on our partnerships, especially with the City and the Public schools, to focus on the service delivery and responsibilities across jurisdictions to assess what is working and what can be changed or improved in difficult financial times.

• Focus on new strategies of community engagement, including greater transparency and information that is posted online, outreach strategies, and clarity about our processes and procedures. Enhance our communications and relationships with communities, media, agencies, and partners.

• Focus on a financial plan that increases revenue growth with grants, new program offerings, sponsorships and foundation giving, but also plan for potential budget reductions that are the result of projected state deficits or increased costs.

• Assure that basic services and programs remain accessible, community based, and equitable. Reaffirm the importance of outdoor activities for children.   

• Shape city character through nationally recognized park development and redevelopment strategies.