Frequently Asked Questions
The Lexington parks system is comprised of over 100 parks, including those listed below. If passed, the parks funding ballot referendum would fund enhanced amenities and other improvements systemwide.
➜ 36 neighborhood parks
➜ 20 special use parks
➜ 15 community parks
➜ 6 community centers
➜ 6 swimming pools
➜ 5 regional parks
➜ 5 golf courses
➜ 4 nature parks
➜ 3 arts venues
➜ And more!
Find the parks closest to you using this map.
A referendum is a direct vote by the electorate on a proposal, law, or political issue. This is in contrast to an issue being voted on by a representative. This may result in the adoption of a new policy or specific law, or the referendum may be only advisory. Ballot referendums are commonly referred to as ballot questions, ballot measures, or propositions.
To appear on the ballot, the Lexington-Fayette Urban County Council must pass a resolution by a three-fifths (3/5) vote requesting that the question be submitted to the voters at least 90 days prior to the General Election.
The ballot referendum would then appear on voter ballots on Tuesday, November 5, 2024. This resolution was passed unanimously by the Urban County Council on April 25, 2024.
As Lexington has grown, our parks facilities have not kept up. The February 2024 Parks Master Plan update found $123 million dollars in capital needs. We will not be able to deliver the level of service our community needs without substantial investment.
From enhancing amenities in neighborhood parks and improving playgrounds, to ensuring walking and hiking trails are safe and accessible, the parks funding ballot referendum improves quality of life in every corner of Lexington, including those neighborhoods historically left behind.
If passed, the ballot referendum would raise $8 million dollars each year, all of which will go to enhancing parks and recreational facilities in our city. All projects will be guided by the Parks Master Plan.
It is likely that state and federal matching grants will further increase the impact of the dedicated parks fund.
The average Lexington homeowner would pay $52.88 per year or about a dollar per week.
The parks funding ballot referendum does not change the budget process. The Mayor will continue to propose a budget which will be reviewed and approved by Council. The referendum would create a new dedicated fund for parks capital projects recommended in the Parks Master Plan.
Strict accountability measures will be in place if the parks funding ballot referendum is approved by voters. Per state law, the dedicated parks fund can only be used for parks (KRS 97.590).
There would be full public disclosure on how funds are spent, including an annual public audit. All projects would be guided by recommendations in the Parks Master Plan.
Issuing bonds obligates taxpayers to interest payments and adds pressure to the city’s credit profile, potentially increasing the cost of future borrowing. In contrast, a property tax is a more fiscally responsible method to fund parks projects in every corner of the city.
No. The parks funding ballot referendum would provide funding to enhance city-owned parks, trails, open spaces, and recreational facilities. Gatton Park is a donor-supported park funded by private dollars. Similarly, the parks funding ballot referendum would not impact parks owned by homeowners associations, Fayette County Public Schools, or any other private entity.
Yes! The Trust for Public Lands has worked with cities across the United States to pass more than 600 ballot measures supporting parks and open spaces since 1972. The success rate of these measures is 83%.