On February 12, Director of Intergovernmental Relations Dominic Butchko testified before the Environment and Transportation Committee in support of HB 717 – Natural Resources – Public Lands – Acquisition, Staffing, Operations, and Funding with amendments.
This bill allows flexibility for future allocations for Program Open Space (POS) funds if the Department of Natural Resources and Department of Planning certify that the acquisition goals have been met. Department-sought amendments will clarify the intended beneficial effects on local jurisdictions who have met State-set land preservation goals.
HB 717 presents a valuable opportunity to modernize POS Local allocations by allowing counties to direct resources toward vital park enhancements, including upgrades to playgrounds, recreation centers, and other facilities, while maintaining appropriate oversight through the Department of Natural Resources and acreage-per-capita considerations.
Given the fiscal constraints facing local governments, county Recreation and Parks departments are striving to maximize the effects of limited resources through innovative and efficient solutions. Granting counties increased discretion in the use of POS Local funds will allow them to better meet the diverse recreational needs of their residents while ensuring responsible stewardship of public resources.
HB 717 was heard in the opposite chamber, the Education, Energy, and the Environment Committee, on March 25. As amended, MACo submitted updated written testimony in support of this bill.
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