By Julie Johansen
Emery County Recreation Special Service District held its April meeting on Monday in Castle Dale.
Approximately 50 concerned citizens attended to show their support for the recreation district. All board members were present and chairman Troy Winters explained the financial situation of the district. Previously, the district was funded by mineral lease money, but now this money is virtually non-existent. Earlier this year, the district made arrangements with the county to borrow money to pay owed obligations while continuing to operate. At the present time, the district has no funding and needs to find a solution.
The citizens attending presented many options and desires. Some of those options included raising taxes, increasing volunteerism, becoming a county entity, increasing fees for youth programs, shutting the doors, increasing revenue at the softball complex and discontinuing direction and management of the campground.
”Could the county forgive the debt?” was a questioned asked.
Some of the comments included that the district gives a quality of life for citizens. It was also pointed out that the youth programs fund themselves and break even. However, insurance is a big expense for these programs. Emery County Commissioners Keith Brady and Ethan Migliori said they were glad to hear how much it meant to the public and this would help them prioritize the budget of the county. They feel that the mineral lease money will eventually come back. The duo said they are committed to doing what the citizens desire.
”It may come down to what is most important, roads, sewer, EMTs, fire department; there is a lot to consider,” said Ferron Mayor Trent Jackson.
The board announced that this was not a decision-making meeting. It will meet as a board and decide what would be best for the district and make recommendations to commissioners.