East Baton Rouge Parish residents will vote June 27 on a renewal of BREC’s 3.96-mill property tax. The measure funds maintenance and operations across the park system. During a recent appearance on Talk 107.3, BREC leaders highlighted financial improvements and explained what is at stake in the upcoming election.
Audit Findings Continue to Improve
According to BREC Superintendent Search Transition Team members Janet Simmons and Maurice Velasquez, the agency reduced audit findings from 18 to eight in its latest audit. Officials said many of the remaining findings stemmed from issues that occurred before corrective actions were in place.
The audit also found no misappropriation of funds in 2024. BREC completed overdue bank reconciliations and strengthened financial oversight. Leaders said the organization has reduced the number of purchasing cards in circulation and continues to tighten financial controls.
Officials credited improvements to updated business practices, standardized procedures, and greater collaboration between departments.
Millage Renewal Supports Park Operations
The June 27 ballot item is a renewal, not a tax increase. BREC leaders said the funding supports maintenance, operations, programming, facility repairs, and storm recovery efforts across the parish.
If voters reject the renewal, officials said BREC would need to reduce services, programming, facility hours, and other operational expenses. They emphasized that the measure helps maintain existing services rather than expand them.
Leaders also addressed misconceptions about park closures. They said the millage renewal does not determine whether surplus properties are evaluated and does not affect the future of City-Brooks Community Park, which they stated is not scheduled for closure.
Public Meetings Scheduled
BREC will host public meetings to discuss plans for Perkins Road Community Park and City-Brooks Community Park. Officials encourage residents to attend, ask questions, and review proposed projects before the June 27 election.