Dallas park board pushes back against proposed park fund fee reduction

During a February meeting, the Parks and Recreation board members voiced strong opposition to a proposed reduction of fees that developers pay to help fund city parks. The proposal was previously approved by the City Plan Commission and is set to head to city council.

CPC approved a 50% reduction of Park Land Dedication fees last month. These are fees paid by developers based on the size and number of units of their project. The commission argues that this would encourage affordable housing development.

However, board members strongly oppose the reduction, saying it would hinder the city’s ability to acquire land for parks and green spaces. This comes as the board has aimed to increase access to parks across the city.

Board members said they intend to push back against the fee reductions, bringing together advocacy groups and reaching out to city council members before they vote.

About the Park and Recreation board:

The Dallas Park and Recreation Board has oversight of the Dallas Park and Recreation Department.

The 15 members of this policy-making board are appointed and approved by the mayor and Dallas City Council.

The board has jurisdiction over the control, management and maintenance of the public parks of the city.

Dallas Documenter Karem Montemayor attended the Feb. 20 Park and Recreation board public meeting, and this brief emerged from her notes. Click here to read Montemayor‘s full notes, and here to learn how you can become a paid Documenter at public meetings.