The Starke County Park Board could get dedicated funding from the county, under a proposal from County Commissioner Kathy Norem. Until now, the park board’s revenue sources have been limited to grants, donations, and Starke County Forest timber sales, but no regular budget from the county.
Norem recently told the park board that she’ll push for the county council to add park board funding to the 2021 budget. “You can’t be a strong and vibrant park board without a few dollars to help get you going,” she said.
In total, Norem planned to request more than $30,000. A large chunk of that would be for projects. Norem noted that the park board got a $5,000 grant for a Yellow River kayak launch more than a year ago, but additional funds are needed. She also wants to budget money to make maps of the county’s park facilities.
Her request includes $2,500 for secretarial support and office supplies. Norem said that proper documentation will be needed, if the park board plans to apply for grants. She added that secretaries for all other boards get paid.
Norem didn’t seem confident that the council would approve the budget request, though, since COVID-19 is expected to take a big hit on the county’s tax revenues.
