More than half of Licking County residents live within one mile of a bike trail and over 90 percent live within five miles of a Licking Park District (LPD) park.  Positively influencing the community’s health, economy, culture and environment, the Licking Park District is a key component in making Licking County a destination for families to both live and play.  

On May 2, the Licking Park District Levy is up for renewal.  The LPD has been an excellent steward of the original five-year levy.  The Park District has revived programs and services and completed a majority of the projects laid out in the five-year plan on time and within budget.  Renewal of the levy will allow the LPD to continue to improve and maintain miles of community bike trails and pathways, park shelters and equipment; provide educational programs and special events; and help to protect and preserve the local habitats and greenspace that add significantly to property value.

Several years ago, a significant decrease in government funding resulted in financial difficulties for the Licking Park District.  Concerned that the budget cuts would hinder the LPD’s ability to provide recreational and educational opportunities for local families, a group of community leaders organized Friends for the Parks, Paths & Trails, chaired by LMHS President & CEO Rob Montagnese.  This faction, now chaired by Bill MacDonald, Executive Dean of the Regional Campuses, The Ohio State University at Newark, once again has assembled to direct its efforts toward a successful levy campaign.  “Licking Memorial Health Systems (LMHS) strongly urges Licking County residents to support the Licking Park District levy renewal,” Rob said.  “The Health Systems’ mission is to improve the health of the community, and the Park District promotes healthy outdoor activities and exercise for our communities’ families.  We commend the Park District for persevering through a difficult financial situation and accomplishing numerous beneficial projects since the levy passed.  We urge voters to support the levy renewal in May, so that the LPD may continue to enhance the quality of life for everyone in Licking County.”

The Licking Park District is the only countywide agency preserving open space and providing outdoor recreation services to the citizens of Licking County.  The Park District is responsible for the care and upkeep of more than 1,600 acres of open space park land and reserves, as well as 45 miles of hiking, horseback riding trails and bike paths.   The Licking Park District maintains thirteen facilities around Licking County that are open to the community.

Continuing to develop partnerships to leverage assets, multiple initiatives are part of LPD ongoing efforts.  In 2017, the Park District will offer a number of programs, including the Backyards Series, Speaker Series, Homeschool Happenings, Citizen Science and Paint the Parks.  Monthly Hikes, Paddlesports and the Nature Barn at Infirmary Mound Park also will continue this year.

“Licking Park District plays an important role in Licking County’s culture.  The Park District has made it possible for families to enjoy a day of safe bicycling, take nature walks, or experience a 1840s encampment,” said Eschol Curl, LMHS Board Member and committee member of Friends for the Parks, Paths & Trails.  “A vote in favor of the Parks renewal levy is an investment in the community, ultimately leading to business growth and new jobs for our residents.”

The Licking Park District is requesting a renewal of the 0.25 mill levy from voters on the May 2 ballot.  The levy would cost owners of a $100,000 home only $7.65 per year.  For more information about the Licking Park District or the levy ballot, please call (614) 542-7376.