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Metro Parks Tacoma announces huge cutbacks

PIERCE COUNTY, Wash. — Metro Parks Tacoma announced Friday it was making huge budget cuts in response to the stay-at-home order caused by the pandemic.

Officials with the park have projected lower revenues from sales and property taxes, forcing layoffs, salary cuts and furloughs.

The park district’s overall budget comes from earned revenue, which includes fees associated with attendance, programs, classes, facility rentals and more, according to park leaders.

The park district plans to lay off approximately 520 part-time and seasonal staff starting March 31, according to a release from Metro Parks.

Park officials said they will temporarily reduce pay or hours for all managers and nonrepresented staff, with senior leaders taking a large reduction.

There will be plans to put a freeze on spending and hiring, park officials said.

“The budget impact is coming into focus now, and it’s devastating,” said Metro Parks Executive Director Shon Sylvia. “We estimate our losses could reach $13 million, depending on how long this situation continues. We’re all in shock over how quickly it came to this. We strongly urge Congress to target its next round of relief toward local governments."

“I’ve worked at Metro Parks for more than 20 years, and I know the staff well,” Sylvia added, “and this is heartbreaking. They helped make this one of the best systems in the nation.”

Metro Parks operations include the Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium, Northwest Trek Wildlife Park, Meadow Park Golf Course, Fort Nisqually Living History Museum, community centers, pools, spraygrounds, parks, hundreds of recreation programs and more.

The district’s facilities are closed, but the parks will remain open for the public to walk, cycle and otherwise enjoy nature while following the public health guidelines, avoiding the risk of exposure to the coronavirus.