Commissioners say more money is needed as the current "shoestring" budget is insufficient for the township's five-year plan.
The proposed 2026-2027 parks budget is just over $225,000 a significant increase from the previous year’s $171,000.
But a major portion ($105,000) is earmarked to match grants for replacing the Laketown Township Beach steps or potential land acquisition
Other high-priority projects include Americans with Disabilities Act access at the township hall and various parks, new boardwalks and bridges at Farview Park, and restrooms and picnic shelters at Huyser Farm.
In 2022, voters rejected a $1.21 million bond proposal for park restrooms.
Commissioners are sensitive to concerns about raising taxes but emphasize that parks are a vital community service that requires proper upkeep.
Any millage issue would have to be approved by the township board.
A public hearing on the budget is scheduled for March 11 at the Laketown Township Hall.
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