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To the editor:
As former Mayor of Salem, I would like to continue to express my support for the Columbiana County Park District Levy, as well as, the Salem Parks Renewal Levy, which both will appear on the November 8th ballot.
The voters of Salem have long shown their support for city parks levies because, I believe, they enjoy a well-maintained parks system that provides much needed recreation close to home and they understand how those parks can be an economic development driver. The Salem Parks Commission continues to be great stewards of the monies levied.
Many residents of Salem use and enjoy the Greenway Trail for walking and biking. It is my fervent hope that the residents of Salem, and those all across the county, will see the benefits of having a well-maintained county park system. The Trail is 22 years old and in need of repair and maintenance. This will require additional funds.
During the pandemic large numbers of residents of the county began using the Greenway Trail, Hellbender Bluff, and Scenic Vista Parks. I believe many have enjoyed discovering these wonderful county assets for the first time. Passage of the County Levy is crucial to properly maintain these beautiful assets of our County Park District.
The County Park District Board has been able to accomplish much with only $15,000 in dedicated funding each year. The board continually looks for and has been able to secure grants for projects and improvements, but grants fall short of the need. Being able to provide these wonderful assets to the county, while being good fiscal stewards, has earned my endorsement of the levy for the county park district.
On November 8th, please vote for both the City of Salem Parks Renewal Levy and the Columbiana County Park District Levy.
John C. Berlin,
Former Salem Mayor