Oxford Commits Increased Funding for City Parks in 2025 Budget Plan

Oxford Parks to Get Major Attention in 2025 Budget

Oxford is gearing up for an exciting focus on its parks as the city plans for the Fiscal Year 2025 budget. Recently, the Oxford Board of Aldermen, along with Mayor Robyn Tannehill and department heads, discussed significant changes and additions during a budget work session. The big news is that more money is being set aside to evaluate and potentially renovate the city’s parks, especially those with playgrounds.

Increased Funding for Park Studies

Back in July, the board approved an initial allocation of $25,000 to fund a study at Stone Park. This study aims to determine how to best utilize the land before making any renovations. However, this was just the beginning; the board decided to ramp up the funding for park studies to $80,000 after realizing several parks in Oxford need a closer look.

Avent Park, the city’s most heavily used park, has already been allocated $500,000 for renovations. In addition to Stone Park, the Board identified other parks, including Price Hill Park and Bailey Branch Park, for potential updates and improvements.

City-Wide Parks Evaluation

Mayor Tannehill emphasized that the studies will be conducted after a city-wide evaluation of the parks and pathways. “It’s an overall parks and pathways plan,” she noted. This larger evaluation isn’t focused just on playground equipment but aims to identify new locations for parks based on population growth and demographics. For instance, if an area has many families, a park with a playground might be the best option. If the neighborhood is mainly home to older adults, walking trails might be more appropriate.

Once the overall parks evaluation is complete, individual studies can utilize that information. They will assess the layout of each park, determining the best spots for equipment, parking facilities, and other amenities.

Upcoming Public Hearing

The city is currently proposing a $65 million budget, which is available for public viewing on the city’s official website. A public hearing is scheduled for 5 p.m. on September 3 at City Hall, where residents will have the opportunity to learn more about and discuss the proposed budget. The board must approve the budget by September 15, as the fiscal year runs from October 1 to September 30.

Police Department Budget Increase

During the budget meeting, the Board also approved an increase in the Oxford Police Department’s budget. This additional funding will allow for the hiring of a full-time police officer and the installation of new security cameras at the Oxford Activity Center and the Ulysses “Coach” Howell Activity Center. This move aims to enhance safety and security in these popular community spaces.

Looking Ahead

With plans for the parks and the police department coming together, it appears Oxford will make significant strides over the next year. Community members are encouraged to stay informed and engaged as the budget process unfolds, particularly regarding the future of the city’s parks and public services.

As we approach the 2025 fiscal year, Oxford’s residents can look forward to improvements in their parks, enhancing the community’s quality of life, and adding more opportunities for recreation and relaxation.