I recently attended a meeting of friends of Evergreen Parks and Recreation where the upcoming bond issue that EPRD will have on the ballot this fall was discussed.

There were representatives for many different constituencies each pushing for funds to support added programming for their passion area. As an avid outdoors person and someone who will try anything, I support all their requests! But there is a big “but”. If the bond issue that will be on our ballots does not pass, NONE of these constituents will be happy because before Parks and Rec can add programs or facilities, they need to address maintenance issues old and new, some that have recently arisen due to the hailstorms earlier this summer. If the request to continue the bond that was passed in 2005 does not pass, EPRD will not be able to afford the maintenance backlog, nor able to afford to maintain all the current facilities, and most definitely will not be able to add programs and facilities. So, the real question, in my opinion, is whether the residents of Evergreen value recreation and want to continue to be a community that offers recreation opportunities to residents of all ages; in the recreation centers and the fields and trails they maintain. If this is something you value, then voting yes when your ballot arrives in the middle of this month will be an important action you can take.

The Chamber welcomes everyone to weigh in on the “Best of” for the year! In November, the Evergreen Chamber will be hosting our annual Sparkle and Shine event which honors, thanks, and awards our business owners and nonprofits. There are multiple categories, so be sure to download the “Everything Evergreen” app onto your cell phone and open the “Live/Work/Stay” community to access all the nominees and the voting form. Our businesses and nonprofits are always honored to have your support.