ABSTRACT Serious funding problems for parks and recreation departments began to be recognized in the early 1980s under the policies of the Reagan Administration. The problem began to be recognized at an even earlier date by local level governments in California in the wake of the passage by voters of Proposition 13 in 1978.
The approach of Los Angeles County to raising funds for parks and recreation activities through referendum (Proposition A) must be assessed as being highly successful in that the proposal passed with a two thirds voter approval during a period of serious economic recession in Southern California. The success of Proposition A in achieving its stated objectives, however, cannot be assessed until more time has elapsed (the proposal received voter approval in November 1992). The passage of Proposition A validated the contention that voters are more likely to support taxation wherein the funds are ear marked for specific purposes than they are likely to support increases in general revenue taxation wherein politicians and public administrators retain control of spending priorities. The success of the Los Angeles County Department of Parks and Recreation is using Proposition A money effectively to achieve the proposal's stated objectives will largely determine the future success of such a strategy in Los Angeles County.
The policy analysis determined that the dedicated tax levy was the preferred policy alternative for the funding of parks and recreation activities in Los Angeles County. It was recommended that improving managerial effectiveness, upgrading facilities, corporate sponsorship, private donations, and developing reclaimed land should also be considered.
FUNDING FOR PARKS AND RECREATION IN LOS
This research presents the findings of a policy analysis of the issue of funding for parks and recreation activities in Los Angeles County. These findings are presented in discussions related to ...