Preckwinkle outlines Cook County Forest Preserve budget
Forest Preserves of Cook County is seeking total 2017 appropriation authority of $192 million - an approximate $2.2 million increase over last year.
The Forest Preserves' day-to-day operating budget is consistent with 2016, including providing the Brookfield Zoo and the Chicago Botanic Garden their current funding level of $14.9 million and $9.3 million, respectively.
The 2017 budget avoids service reductions and layoffs and does not rely on reserve funds to pay for day-to-day operations, but does use $3.9 million in reserves for restoration efforts, the district said in a news release.
"Restoration work remains the single largest line item in the FPCC budget for the fifth straight year, which reflects the district's commitment to conservation and preservation of native habitat, plants and animals," Board President Toni Preckwinkle said in the news release.
The goal is to restore 30,000 acres over 25 years.
The district is facing fiscal challenges, including significant increases in salaries and wages. To bridge a $2.6 million budget gap, the budget includes calls for a 12 percent reduction in non-personnel expenses, increased revenue from the tax levy and tax increment financing funds, and increased nontax revenues.
Revenue generating initiatives include securing more philanthropy and corporate sponsorships, expanding concessions and selling carbon offsets.
Additionally, the district has expanded concession operations and fee-based programs to generate more revenue. Nontax revenues from concessions and licensing are expected to grow by approximately $528,000.
The district is assessing ways to diversify revenue streams. Initial results of an analysis of private events indicates the district is only recovering 48 percent of costs. As a result, changes are planned in the permits, rentals and concessions fee schedule to include peak and off-peak pricing, new categories based on attendance levels, a 10 percent premium for nonresidents, fees for amenities such as portable toilets, updated application fees, and adjustments to pricing of golf, camping, zip line and treetop adventure course, boating and equestrian activities.
Nonprofit organizations will continue to receive a 50 percent discount on base permit charges with proper documentation.
"These recommendations establish a rational basis for fee setting and public funding that will lead to greater long-term financial sustainability," Preckwinkle said.
"Taxpayer money should be spent on restoring and maintaining areas which have the most use by the public. Support for private events with exclusive use should be supported by the users or hosts of those events."