2023 Parks Referendum

Photo of the playground and Splash Pad at Riverside Park with city Logo

Background Information

In August 2022, the St. Cloud City Council voted to move a suggested Parks funding referendum to the November 2022 General Election ballot. The measure was strongly supported by the Parks & Recreation Advisory Board.

If approved, there would be accountability:

•    There will be disclosure of how the funds are spent.

•    There will be an annual accounting of how the funds are spent.

•    Funds raised locally could be matched by funds from the state grants, federal funds, and private sources.

If approved, improvements to the parks would be made:

•    Maintaining and improving public buildings, parks, trails, and green spaces

•    Create and sustain cleaner, safer, and more attractive parks for our residents

•    Improving access to parks and recreational facilities for people of all abilities

•    Build facilities and amenities that improve enjoyment in existing parks

Ballot Language

PARKS AND RECREATION IMPROVEMENTS GENERAL OBLIGATION BONDS

In the City of St. Cloud, shall general obligation bonds be issued in a principal amount not to exceed $20,000,000 to provide funds to improve and develop recreational trails, neighborhood and community parks, improve and enhance park quality, access and safety, activate residents through improvements, amenities, maintenance, and operations to existing parks, special use facilities, natural areas and recreational facilities for children, adults, families, and seniors?

Funds raised by the City could be matched by funds from the state and federal government and private sources.

It is estimated that the average residential homeowner ($214,000 home market value) would pay an additional $58.00 per year. The maximum amount of increased levy as a percentage of market value is 0.0271 percent. The maximum amount that would be raised by the new referendum tax rate in the first year if it were to be levied is $1,491,000.

BY VOTING “YES” ON THIS BALLOT QUESTION, YOU ARE VOTING FOR A PROPERTY TAX INCREASE.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What must the money be used for?

Funds would be used for:

•    Maintaining and improving public buildings, parks, trails, and green spaces

•    Create and sustain cleaner, safer, and more attractive parks for our residents

•    Improving access to parks and recreational facilities for all abilities

•    Building facilities and amenities that improve enjoyment in existing parks

•    New parks and trail creation

2. What’s the bottom line? How much will it cost me? If approved, how much will my taxes go up?

It is estimated that the average residential homeowner would pay an additional $58.00 per year.

3. Why fund this with a property tax?  

The property tax is generally more broad-based and paid only by property owners in St. Cloud. The levy is also more flexible, as it can be used to fund long term maintenance items as well capital needs for parks and trails.  

4. How will I know the money will be wisely spent? What kind of accountability is there to the taxpayers?

If approved, there would be strict accountability:

•    There will be public disclosure of how the funds are spent.

•    There will be an accounting of how the funds are spent.

•    Funds raised locally could be matched by funds from the state and federal government and private sources.

5. Why is this needed now?

This goes back to the master planning done in 2017. It was St. Cloud’s first parks system-wide plan in 15 years, and it was long overdue. The master plan found that the park and recreation facilities were aged and require updating. Implementing and constructing new parks in needed areas was also a priority 

6. Why now, post global pandemic, with personal and economic hardships?

While there have been concerns about moving forward with this initiative at this time, the needs of the parks have not diminished. In fact, recently there’s been higher usage of St. Cloud parks and recreational facilities more than ever before. During these times, having close-to-home recreational opportunities such as parks and trails where we can get outside or stay inside for activities, is even more important than ever.

7. Do other Minnesota Cities have a tax dedicated for parks?

Yes! Many Minnesota cities have passed referendums for dedicated parks funding.  

8. How much money will be raised?

If approved by the voters, the referendum would raise $20 million for park and recreational improvements and needs. 

9. How do I vote on St. Cloud City Question #2: In the City of St. Cloud, shall general obligation bonds be issued in a principal amount not to exceed $20,000,000 to provide funds to improve and develop recreational trails, neighborhood and community parks, improve and enhance park quality, access and safety, activate residents through improvements, amenities, maintenance and operations to existing parks, special use facilities, natural areas and recreational facilities for children, adults, families and seniors?

General Election: Tuesday, November 8, 2022; voting hours are 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. You can check where to vote using the Secretary of State Polling Place Finder.

Please visit the Secretary of State website for additional Election Day Voting Information.