Imes issues statement regarding park funding

MURRAY – The Calloway County Fiscal Court greatly values the role that the Murray-Calloway County Park plays in the quality of life for our citizens as seen in the decision make in 2021 and appreciates the work of the City, Park Board, employees, volunteers, donors, and community partners who have helped maintain and improve the facility since that time.

As budget discussions continue for the upcoming fiscal year, it is important to clarify that the Fiscal Court has not taken formal action to remove or deny funding for the park, regardless of what one individual may say. The county budget process remains ongoing, and all funding decisions must be evaluated alongside the many responsibilities and financial obligations the county must meet on behalf of taxpayers.

Since the transfer of ownership in 2021, the County has continued contributing operational support to the park despite no longer holding ownership interest in the property. The currently elected officials made those contributions in good faith and in recognition of the park’s importance to residents throughout Calloway County. 

Like every local government, Fiscal Court must carefully review revenues, expenditures, and long-term financial priorities each budget cycle and cannot obligate funds in perpetuity during an election cycle. Discussions regarding funding levels are part of that process and should not be interpreted as a lack of support for our community or its recreational opportunities.

We remain committed to maintaining a positive working relationship with the City of Murray and the Murray-Calloway County Park Board as long as I am the Judge/Executive. Our shared goal is ensuring that county residents continue to have access to quality recreational facilities and programs for years to come.

We encourage open communication and collaboration as budget deliberations move forward and will continue working responsibly to balance the needs of all county services and taxpayers. A contingency fund is included in the current budget for those organizations we have supported in the past by line item in the budget. A letter signed on May 20 was mailed out respectively thereafter. Any nonprofit organization will have an opportunity to make request to the Fiscal Court for this contingency fund in the upcoming year and will be addressed on an individual basis. A copy of the letter for public view is on file in the Treasurer’s office.