SCHROEPPEL -- Update:
The town park in Schroeppel, may keep some of it's activities after all.
Monday night, Town Supervisor Paul Casler confirmed to CNYcentral that the board is working to restore $28,000 in funding, for the Community Services Department.
Last week, the town held a public meeting, to discuss a plan to cut money for the department. It runs several youth and senior programs, and community sports. Many people spoke out against the idea.
Casler says the restoration in funding won't be certain until the budget vote next Thursday.
Posted Wednesday, November 3rd:
The town park in Schroeppel may be quieter than usual this summer. Because the programs that often fill the fields and playground, are on the budget chopping block.
"By taking so many of these opportunities and programs away, they've really cut into the heart of this community," said concerned parent Diana Cook.
The town board is considering closing the Community Services Department which runs a number of youth and senior programs, including holiday parties and arts and crafts for the kids. As well as community sports like soccer, volleyball and basketball.
"It's just really hard to see that the little kids can't experience what we got to experience. It just really hurts me because I got that chance," said Tricia Kelly.
The programs are a small part of the $2-million budget. The move would save an average household $20 - $25 a year on their tax bill.
"It's $2 a month, we spend that much on a cup of coffee," said Cook.
Town Supervisor Paul Casler says they are buried under state mandates and are looking for ways to save. But many taxpayers who spoke up at Wednesday night's public hearing say this would slash their quality of life.
"Our community, there isn't a lot to do, and the community service sports really impact everybody's lives and keep the kids out of trouble," said Trisha Hetko.
The town board could decide to put this money back into the budget. No decisions were made at the public hearing. The board will vote on the final budget in the coming weeks.
