Group wants Lexington voters to approve new property tax for park projects

(LEX 18) – A citizens group wants Lexington voters to approve a new property tax to help fund park projects.

Yes For Parks launched its official campaign on Wednesday in one of Lexington’s premier parks, Woodland Park.

The new property tax, which would cost the average homeowner an additional $53 per year, would generate about $8.5 million annually for park projects.

Proponents believe this is a bargain for a resource that 90% of Lexington residents use.

“Something like this makes it a no-brainer. For a dollar a week, you can have great parks and get the infrastructure fixed so you can get into the park in a wheelchair, with your walker, with your two feet or whatever,” said Christine Smith, who supports the park tax. “It’s a no-brainer. So no-brainer. Just go out and vote yes. You’ll get great parks.”

In 2018, the Lexington Parks Master Plan identified more than $123 million in improvements needed for more than 400 projects. The money generated by the new tax would help meet those needs for generations to come, supporters say.

“This is not a Band-Aid solution,” said David Lowe, a member of the parks advisory board. “It’s a comprehensive and multigenerational solution so that our children and their children can enjoy these amenities in our parks.”

The new tax will only be used for major improvements. It cannot be used to pay salaries for city parks and recreation staff or other operating expenses that the city must cover from its $27 million parks budget.

Lowe believes most people in Lexington will support the tax. He explained that around the country, about 83% of similar parking tax referendums have passed. However, there will likely be opposition in Lexington.

Property tax bills in Fayette County have increased significantly over the past decade due to rising property values. Property taxes have also been increased several times to provide additional funding to the Fayette County Public School District.

However, Lowe believes that people want to invest in things that improve their quality of life.

“I think the people of Lexington in particular are really excited and looking forward to investing more in our parks.”