Lacey parks funding measure to be placed on August ballot 

The Lacey City Council unanimously approved a resolution to put a Metropolitan Park District (MPD) proposition before voters in August.  

At a regular meeting on Tuesday, April 1, the council voted in favor of Resolution 1166, which sets the stage for a public vote on Aug. 5, to create a dedicated funding source for the city's parks and recreation facilities. 

The proposed measure would establish a levy rate of up to 45 cents per $1,000 of assessed property valuation, with the goal of expanding park maintenance, creating new facilities and supporting recreational programs. 

“I think it's very, very clear where we will utilize these funds to expand the maintenance and programs,” said Lacey Mayor Andy Ryder in stressing the intent to supplement, not replace, existing parks funding. 

“I think it's important, we listen to the public on that, and we have that language there now." 

Community members spoke in support of the measure, including former Lacey Mayor Mark Brown. 

“In my opinion, creation of a Metropolitan Park District is the only way to meet the need with predictable, sustainable, sufficient and long-term funding,” Brown said. 

Council members also voiced strong support for the resolution, emphasizing the need for a stable funding source for the city's growing park system. 

Lacey Deputy Mayor Malcolm Miller highlighted the potential benefits for the community, including expanded programs and addressing deferred maintenance.  

"I've been in favor of this from the very beginning in that I have kids who grew up here in Lacey, went to Lacey Parks did all the Lacey Parks and Recreation programs in the summertime and I'd love to see those programs expanded so that other kids can have that opportunity," Miller said.  

The decision to put the MPD on the ballot follows a recommendation from a parks improvement funding working group and subsequent discussions by the city council.  

The workgroup identified key priorities, including park development in underserved areas, indoor and outdoor recreational facilities, and maintaining aging infrastructure.  

Lacey’s Parks, Culture & Recreation Department currently relies on a mix of funding sources, including the city’s general fund, grants and park impact fees.   

However, as the city expands, existing funding has been unable to keep pace with infrastructure demands, maintenance needs and community requests for new amenities.  

To balance funding needs with taxpayer impact, the workgroup recommended a levy rate of 45 cents per $1,000 of assessed valuation.   

This rate was chosen over higher options, such as 50 or 75 cents per $1,000, to generate sustainable funding without placing an excessive burden on property owners. 

In previous meetings, the council also discussed property tax exemptions for seniors, veterans and low-income residents. City staff noted that eligible individuals could apply through existing state processes under RCW 84.36.381 (a property tax exemption law).

The next step will be for Lacey voters to decide on the proposition during the general election on Aug. 5.