Rockford — Voters on Tuesday approved a request from Rockford Public Schools to renew the district’s parks and recreation millage for another 20 years.
According to unofficial results from the Kent County Clerk’s office 6,591 people voted in favor of the renewal while 2,535 opposed it.
The renewal of the millage means that Rockford taxpayers will continue to fund the operation and upkeep of recreation facilities at a rate of .9125 mills. The millage will be levied until 2044.
Funds generated will continue to cover the operation and maintenance of parks, playgrounds and recreation facilities for youth athletics, after-school programs, classes for seniors and more.
The millage also supports the use of facilities by various groups and clubs, including Special Olympics and Boy and Girl Scouts. Additionally, facilities are used for firefighter and law enforcement training, and for county professional development, according to information from the district.
The parks and recreation is expected to generate approximately $2.3 million in 2024, according to the ballot language.
Lisa Jacobs, Rockford’s executive director of community services, previously said that renewal of the millage would result in a 50% reduction in fees for pay-to-play youth sports.
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