by Malcolm Butler
Lincoln Parish residents voted Saturday to renew a 2.92 mills on the dollar property tax that generates an estimated $735,000 annually used for the purpose of improving, maintaining, operating, acquiring, and constructing parks, playgrounds, recreational centers and other recreational facilities.
The renewal passed overwhelmingly with 73 percent (657) of those who turned out to vote in favor of it, while 27 percent (244) voted against the renewal that has been in existence for 20 years. Only 8.1 percent of voters turned out on Saturday.
The renewal is for an additional 10 years.
“I’m very relieved and happy the renewal passed,” Director of Ruston Sports Complex and Ruston Parks and Recreation Matt Cotton said. “Thank you to all the residents who voted in support. Ruston Parks and Recreation will continue offering great recreation programs and well maintained parks. It’s an exciting time for RPAR and Ruston.”
Back in October, Ruston mayor Ronny Walker told the LPJ that “We have (so many recreational areas) that depend on this money.”
The parks and recreational areas dependent on this funding include Cook Park, Mayfield Park, Duncan Park, Smith Park, Roberts Park, Greenwood Park, Huckleberry Trails Park, and Memorial Park. The yet-to-be constructed skatepark and dog park will also utilize this funding for maintenance (not construction) as well as the Rock Island Greenway, the Military Museum, and the grounds surrounding the museum and the new VFW building.
Walker pointed out that since the existing 10-year millage was renewed in 2015, many of these areas have been added (or will be), including the greenway, dog park, and skate park.
These areas entail more than 40 acres and more than 30 miles of walking, running, and riding paths.
Maintenance and upkeep of these areas include landscaping, stocking fish ponds (Ruston Sports Complex & Mayfield Park), trash removal, trail repairs, and additions of components such as splash pads.
