Passing Proposition 1 has regional impacts

PARC Foundation of Thurston County is dedicated to preserving green spaces of our natural surroundings, expanding and supporting works of art and artists in our community, ensuring all citizens have access to recreational opportunities, and cultural activity in Thurston County. PARC enthusiastically endorses Proposition 1 because it is the best idea with broad support for caring for and improving Olympia’s parks now and in the future.

After years, maybe even a couple of decades, of being around, the idea of a regional metropolitan park district (MPD) has become part of our conversation - again. A regional MPD requires coordination and agreement among multiple government entities with respect to properties, priorities, and continued local funding. Such agreement has been difficult, and may take a long time or never be achieved.

It is a theoretical possibility that we can continue pursuing, after we pass Prop. 1.

Let us not get bogged down. Twelve diverse Olympia park advocacy groups are endorsing Prop. 1 - as well as many citizens and elected leaders. It was thoughtfully crafted and provides accountability and guarantees so that our Olympia parks will be cared for adequately and will thrive into the future.

It is entirely feasible to create an Olympia Metropolitan Park District first, and then explore a regional park district. In fact, passage of Prop. 1 may be the only way that the regional idea will ever gain traction.

This story was originally published October 27, 2015 at 11:12 AM with the headline "Passing Proposition 1 has regional impacts."