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'No Property Tax Hike' for 2015 Park District Budget: Michael Kelly

By Mauricio Peña | December 4, 2014 7:51am
 The Chicago Park District 2015 budget promises more programming for children and residents.
The Chicago Park District 2015 budget promises more programming for children and residents.
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DNAinfo/Casey Cora

CHICAGO — Chicago Park District officials announced a balanced budget with no property tax increase during Wednesday's Park District budget meeting.

Under the proposed 2015 budget, there will be no property tax increase, said Park District Supt. Michael Kelly.

"Instead, we have come up with creative ways to reduce the cost of government and generate additional revenue," Kelly said.

As part of the $448.6 million budget, "programming fees will increase slightly," as will parking fees from $1.25 to $1.75 during peak hours, Kelly added.

In addition, revenue-generating events at Soldier Field will continue in 2015, including the Hockey City Classic and two Taylor Swift concerts in July.

This $23 million increase from the 2014 budget comes from a $19.3 million pension fund increase as part of legislation passed earlier this year.

"The pension legislation is critical measure to ensuring retirement security for our current employees and retirees," Kelly said.

In 2014, the Park District applied four strategic goals as part of its budget: "Children first, best in town, built to last and extra effort," Kelly said.

"We made good on our promise to keep kids active," Kelly said. "We had a record number of summer camp registration — 45,000 children this summer."

In 2015, the Park District aims to continue these strategic goals as it expands late summer camp programming, fitness-centered programs and baseball and softball programs throughout neighborhood parks.

This year's capital projects include building the first indoor track and field in Gately Park, and the development of a 90-acre Calumet Bike trail and eco-recreation area.

"This 2015 budget reflects the efficiencies, accountability and transparency I promised the citizens of Chicago," Kelly said. "I'm proud of the work we've done in the past year."

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