ARIZONA STATE PARKS: For Immediate Release
Managing and conserving Arizona’s natural, cultural and recreational resources for the benefit of the people, both in our Parks and through our Partners. FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Ellen Bilbrey at (602) 542-1996 or (602) 228-8518, or Monica Enriquez at (602) 542-6997. Contact by Email: pio(at)azstateparks.gov
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(PHOENIX, AZ - Feb 3, 2009 - 2:17 pm) - Today the Arizona State Parks Board decided not to close eight State Parks as proposed by staff. That was a possible solution to massive sweeps from the funds State Parks uses to operate. The millions of dollars in diversions from the tiny agency back to the General Fund by the State Legislature has created a cash flow issue for the agency as it operates on the cash it generates from gate fees. By the end of June the agency is looking at a deficit of $647,000 and cash flowing into the system is sluggish.
The State Parks Board voted today to review all the options it has before going to full closures of eight State Parks. Those solutions will be discussed at a regular February 20 Board meeting. Also under review are the timing and methods for disbursement of funds for community projects. Many of those projects are already under construction, but funds for projects will be swept out of agency accounts by February 28.
"We understand the budget crisis the State is facing, and we have contributed millions of dollars into the General Fund that come from conservation user fees, but our job is to protect Arizona's natural, cultural and recreational resources," said Executive Director, Ken Travous. "For the next two weeks we will be exploring every possible option so we can present solutions to the State Parks Board. These options include park closures as well as employees going on Leave Without Pay, not filling 27 critical vacancies, possible furloughs, seasonal closings, shorter days open to the public, and many others."
"We were pleased that so many people testified at our emergency meeting today, sent letters and offered support for these parks and programs. The public's continued involvement in this State Park budget process is critical to protect both parks and programs. At the February 20th meeting we will have a much bigger room so the public can participate in the hardest decisions our Board will have to make," said Reese Woodling, the State Parks Board Chair.
For more information about Arizona State Parks call (602) 542-4174 (outside of the Phoenix metro area call toll-free (800) 285-3703) or visit azstateparks.com.
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Learn more about the Arizona State Parks Board
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link to this page:
http://azstateparks.com/press/2009/PR_02-03-09.html
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