SaveDallasParks.org February 26, 2024 Dallas Charter Review Commission 1500 Marilla St. Room 4BN Dallas, 1X 75201 Dear Chair Vaught and Charter Review Commissioners, We wrrite to you in strong opposition to Amendments 85 and 103, each of which would undo nearly 100 years of history of the Dallas Park and Recreation Department operating under an independent board appointed by the Mayor and City Council. The Dallas City Charter wisely treats the park department as a specialized division with additional oversight and attention from 15 citizen volunteers. This has ensured continuity and progress unmatched by most other American municipal parks systems. Dallas’ parks system is in the midst of a decades-long renaissance thanks in large part to a dedicated group of volunteers, advocates, philanthropists and park board members who we proudly served alongside during our tenures as board presidents. The Dallas Park & Recreation Department includes nearly 21,000 acres of parkland in 412 parks, 182 trail miles, 42 recreation centers and 243 athletic fields. It takes special care and expertise to manage @ department that has been consistently found to offer a 7-to-1 return on investment. Residents appreciate the value of this structure. The 2023 Community Survey conducted by the ETC Institute for the City of Dallas found that residents of Dallas hold Park and Recreation services in high esteem, with significant percentages of residents rating them positively: * Accessibility of parks: 70% rated as "excellent" or "good" © City parks: 68% rated as "excellent" or "good" ‘© Appearance/maintenance of parks: 64% rated as "excellent" or "good" The Dallas Park and Recreation Department stands out for its high ratings and importance to residents. This is indicative of the department's effective management and pivotal role in enhancing the community's well-being and satisfaction. The current governance structure is a key reason for that success. We ask that you vote against Amendments 85 and 103 and allow Dallas’ park renaissance to continue to bloom.SaveDallasParks.org Respecttully, Bobby Abtahi Former President, Dallas Park and Recreation Board Cle (MN), rast Calvert Collins-Bratton Former President, Dallas Park and Recreation Board foes, foakisaneed) Lois Finkelman Former President, Dallas Park and Recreation Board oe Michael S. Rawlings Former President, Dallas Park and Recreation Board Gow Waleel Joan Walne Former President, Dallas Park and Recreation Board Lal bth CW. Whitaker Former President, Dallas Park and Recreation Board