Supervisor Burgelis Commends Decision to Allocate Surplus Revenues to Park Maintenance and Capital Projects

MILWAUKEE – Today, Tuesday, December 12, 2023, the Committee on Parks and Culture approved an amended resolution which would allocate the 2023 Parks Department surplus to fund major maintenance and capital projects within Milwaukee County parks. The resolution was initiated by the Executive Director of Milwaukee County Parks Guy Smith and amended in committee through policy authored by Supervisor Peter Burgelis. The amendment adds $300,000 which shall be earmarked for beach, deep well pool, wading pool, and splashpad infrastructure to help ensure as many aquatic facilities as possible are in working order and ready for the 2024 season. Supervisor Burgelis made the following statement:

“After diligent stewardship of expenses and greater than anticipated revenues, this year’s Parks Department surplus allows us to make bold investments in our parks sooner rather than later. Normally surplus funds take two years to realize a contribution to debt reserves. The amendment invests in our pools right away in 2024. Residents rely on our aquatic facilities and I recognizing them as invaluable assets for our community’s well-being.  Directing today’s surplus for needed maintenance and capital projects now will give the Department resources and tools to open more pools and splashpads than they otherwise couldn’t.

“Today the Parks Committee voted to support an exciting opportunity that aligns with Milwaukee County’s vision for a greener, more sustainable future, ensuring that parks and public spaces and pools, beaches, and splashpads remain accessible for residents throughout the County. This resolution emphasizes the County’s commitment to enhancing and sustaining public spaces that improve the lives of our community members.

“Also, we still have a great need for lifeguards so please visit Water Parks & Pools for more information!”

The resolution recognizes the prudent fiscal management that has resulted in surplus revenues within the Parks Department. It seeks to enhance the overall quality of parks and aligning with the community’s interests, identify specific park projects for funding based on their significance and Parks Equity Index Scores. The resolution passed the Committee on Parks and Culture on a 4-1 vote, with Supervisor Steve F. Taylor from Oak Creek and Franklin as the lone no vote.

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. It has not been verified for its accuracy or completeness.