Marietta's former and current Mayor and City Council have appointed several citizens to an advisory committee to implement the $25 million parks bond passed by voters in November, and the city has launched a Web site, http://www.mariettaga.gov/departments/parks_rec/parksbondblog/default.aspx, which allows the public to track the committee's progress and let the committee know which additions or improvements they'd like to see to Marietta's park system.
The committee will consider suggestions for possible new parks, improvements to existing parks, and the types of recreation offered at each facility.
The parks bond passed in November provides a breakdown of how the $25 million could be spent including land acquisition; improvements to existing parks and facilities; development of parks, facilities, trails and greenspace (new and existing); planning and design of improvements; and administration and contingencies.
Not only can the public submit their questions, comments and recommendations for improvements to the committee online, but the site also includes a schedule of the committee's meetings, a copy of the parks master plan, and a summary of the committee's meeting minutes and agendas.
Citizens appointed to the Citizens Advisory Committee for Marietta's Parks include
- Heath Garrett
- Betty Hunter
- Cindy Suto
- Randy Weiner
- Mitch Hunter
- Ford Bohannon
- James Morris
- Melody Unger
- Reverend Walter Moon
- Michael Helenek
- Michelle Cooper Kelly
- Deborah Huwaldt
- William (Bill) C. Hagemann
- Kim Gresh
- Larry Ceminsky
- Alan Watson
Ward 6 City Councilman Jim King will serve as chairman of the committee. Bohannon will serve as the committee's vice chairman. Morris will serve as the committee's secretary. Huwaldt will be the committee's assistant secretary.
Although the passing of the parks bond will result in an increase in homeowners' property taxes by approximately $49.12 per year on a $200,000 home and $24.56 per year for a $100,000 home, the committee will work with city leaders, staff and the public to ensure the community has the types of parks and recreation it wants for years to come.
Encouraging revitalization of current parks, establishing new parks for active and passive use, rejuvenating park and green space for the community and positive citizen involvement in decision-making, through boards, community organizations, and community meetings are goals City Council established as part of its vision statement.
For more information, call Marietta's City Clerk's Office at 770-794-5526.