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Director’s Corner

Budget Shortfall Impacts on
Sunrise Recreation and Park District

It would be profoundly reassuring to view the current economic crisis as simply another rough spell that we need to get through.  Unfortunately, though, today’s mix of urgency, high stakes, and uncertainty will continue as the norm even after the recession ends.  The immediate crisis, which we will get through, merely sets the stage for a sustained or even permanent crisis of serious and unfamiliar challenges. 

Over the past six months, the District’s strategy was to make as many tough decisions now to help us get through whatever the future holds.   

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The District realizes that when the economy recovers, things won’t return to normal and staff is adapting to develop the “next practices” that will enable the District to thrive in a new world.

Revenue Reductions
The District is anticipating significant revenue reductions that include:

  • A projected 5% decline in property tax revenue
  • A projected 8% reduction in property tax revenue for the anticipated suspension of proposition 1A.
  • Suspended state grant funding
  • Declines in recreation program revenue and facility rentals

Expense Reductions
Most of these cuts are from a reduction in personnel, programs, materials, supplies, travel and training, and service level reductions. 

Core Services
During the coming year, the District will be focusing our efforts on providing core services.  Core services include keeping our parks and facilities open to the public and safe, clean and green.  The District will also maintain programs and services to serve youth, teens and seniors. 

Reducing Operating Hours
Some days and hours of operation of community centers and swimming pools may be adjusted or reduced.  This will be done when attendance numbers warrant a change.

Reduced Staffing & Service Levels
The public may notice a slight drop in customer service levels, longer lines or a reduction in some programs that are dependent on staff.

Subsidized Programs
District facilities, programs and events that require a high level of tax support may be eliminated or reduced, or fees will be instituted or increased to offset their costs.

Maintenance
The frequency and level of maintenance to our parks and facilities will be reduced or modified to match available revenues.  Reduced frequencies of mowing, watering, aeration, fertilization, shrub & tree pruning and trash pick up may be noticeable.

Revenue Generation
User fees and rental rates will be increased in some programs to offset the cost of providing the service.  The Hearts for Parks non-profit Foundation will continue to offer the Recreation Activity Assistance Fund to income eligible families that provide children an opportunity to participate in a supervised recreation program.

We still encourage the Sunrise Community residents to enjoy our 41 parks, community centers, and swimming pools.  We appreciate your understanding and patience during these difficult financial times.  If you have concerns or suggestions, please do not hesitate to contact us at (916) 725-1585 or sunrise@sunriseparks.com
 

Sincerely,
Lisa Rudloff
District Administrator