Presenter/Contact
Presenter
Stacey Dicke, Parks and Recreation Director
Contact Info
(830) 221-4350 - sdicke@nbtexas.org
Subject Header
SUBJECT:
Title
Approval of a resolution in support of the Texas Recreation and Park Society Legislative Platform for the 86th Legislature.
Body
BACKGROUND / RATIONALE:
The Texas Recreation and Park Society (TRAPS) has adopted the following platform for support during the 86th Legislative Session regarding Parks and Open Space issues. Staff is asking City Council to approve a resolution supporting these initiatives. The platform was approved by the TML Policy Committee on August 27, 2018.
Protect and enhance our investments in all public parks, and open space (Stewardship)
• Sporting Good Sales Tax
• Support constitutional dedication of full amount
• Oppose Tax Free weekend on sporting goods
• Oppose appropriation riders to the TPWD - local park grant programs.
• Support conservation of open space and making public lands accessible for public use.
• Support tree preservation.
• Federal Funding
• Support the Land Water Conservation Fund
• Support the Sport Fish Restoration Boat Access program
• Support the United States Department of Transportation Recreation Trails
• Water and Natural Resources
• Support conservation
• Support rights and access to recreational amenities.
• Unfunded Mandates
• Oppose exemptions that substantially erode the tax base.
• Oppose tax limit on Municipalities.
Increase physical activity and improve health and wellness by utilizing parks and recreation amenities & services (Health & Well-Being)
• Support funding for services and programs that ensure access for people with disabilities.
• Such as, reducing the Medicaid Waiver waitlist.
• Support legislation in reducing the obesity and diabetes epidemics.
• Support funding for the connection of communities to nature and the outdoors.
Create livable, safe, and responsible communities. (Connectivity & Safety)
• Support safe pathways, trails … create safety zones
Transportation
• Support the United States Department of Transportation Recreation Trails
• Support accessibility, so long as it does not impose an unfunded mandate.
• Support the progress of connecting our communities to nature and the outdoors
• Support the findings of the positive economic impact from the Parks & Recreation Industry.
Easement & Acquisition
• Oppose eminent domain limits
• Support the inclusion of commercial development in Parkland Dedication requirements.
ADDRESSES A NEED/ISSUE IN A CITY PLAN OR COUNCIL PRIORITY:
FISCAL IMPACT:
None.
Recommendation
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION:
N/A
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends approval of the resolution.