The Belgrade Regional Parks, Trails, and Recreation District Board unanimously approved a fiscal year 2027 budget on June 4th that sets aside $250,000 annually for potential debt service on a $6 million land acquisition. Finance Director Charity Van Kirk presented the fund statement showing projected operating expenses of $1.1 million, with the debt service money earmarked for ongoing negotiations with the DNRC to acquire regional parkland. The district is exploring a cost-share arrangement with Public Works through a wastewater wetlands project on the same property. Board member Jamie Rosemary questioned where the $250,000 would sit if the land deal doesn't close in 2027, and Van Kirk confirmed the funds would be restricted within the existing fund and earmarked so they cannot be spent elsewhere. The board also approved a $46,000 allocation for volleyball court construction, though Parks Director Jordan noted no location has been identified yet.
The budget includes $5,000 for recreation programming and supplies, a $14,000 annual expense for CivicRec software, and a 4% pay increase for non-represented employees. Capital improvement projects total $667,000 in available fund balance, with $150,000 already spent on the ongoing Mayfair Meadows Park Improvements Project. The board voted to recommend adoption by the City Council, City Commission, and County Commission, with a public hearing and special assessment scheduled for September 3rd.
In additional action, the board unanimously approved designs for a dog park at Henson Park featuring grassed and engineered wood chip areas with double-entry gates. Staff will conduct final review of ADA accessibility compliance for the trail surface, which may require extending concrete through gate entries as requested by Chair Diana Perry.