Gilroy budget sets up passion-filled flashpoint over fate of parks
Briefly

Gilroy's new budget cycle is under scrutiny as the Parks and Recreation Department faces delays in key hires, prompting concerns from residents about the department's future. Mayor Greg Bozzo reassured the public of forthcoming discussions in August to address these issues. Significant budget shifts also included the establishment of an Economic Development Department to boost revenue amid a declining sales tax base. Activists highlighted the importance of recreational programs in community well-being, emphasizing the need to maintain and enhance park services for residents, especially youth.
Our parks are in disrepair, said Parks and Recreation Commissioner Luis Ramirez, who noted that over the years the parks and recreation staff had shrunk from its own division to a shadow of its former self. I'm glad we're putting a flashlight on it It's overdue and it's much needed.
If you want to see less kids riding bicycles in the streets doing nothing that's good, we need to put more effort into parks and rec programs that are going to help those kids, said Parks and Recreation Commissioner Jorge Vargas.
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