Brigham City--With a population of just under 19,000 people, it would be expected that the lovely town of Brigham City would have a park or two for the enjoyment of the people. Well how about eleven? Add to that a seasonal swimming pool, a pickle ball court, a golf course, and an up-coming recreation center and what you end up with is a hefty price for the tax payer. What most people don’t realize when they vote for these recreational items is that they are voting to pay for them out of their own pocket. When you wonder why your property taxes and sales tax keep going up, look to your city recreation bill. For instance, the Brigham City pool is taxpayer subsidized to the tune of $95,000 a year. The parks alone are subsidized with $508,000 taxpayer dollars and the community center receives $577,774 in taxpayer funding. The pickle ball court and the golf course and the new recreation center are also subsidized. This is a huge price tag simply for entertainment.
While we all enjoy parks, perhaps it is time to ask if it is the proper role of government to collect tax money and use them for entertainment that only a small percentage utilize. If parks are truly wanted by the people, then the private market and donations can build those. The city could even donate the land. That would be appropriate. Many people don’t swim, play pickle ball or golf. Why should they have to pay so that others have the privilege to entertain themselves? Governments both big and small are increasing taxes all under the guise “for the good of the people.” While the intent is good, the outcome is a heavy tax burden to pay for the increasing “services” that the city offers. So next time you meander through Brigham City and see eleven nearly empty parks, perhaps you should ask yourself how much is too much? If you think it is time for change, then attend your city’s council meeting and comment during the public portion, or write a letter to your mayor voicing that the money for parks and recreation is simply too costly.
