News BREC Millage Renewal on June 27 Ballot Would Sustain Parks and Services Across East Baton Rouge Parish Without Raising Taxes
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Baton Rouge, LouisianaThe Recreation and Park Commission for the Parish of East Baton Rouge (BREC) is providing the following information about the upcoming park system millage renewal as a public service to voters in advance of the parish-wide municipal general election on June 27, 2026. Early voting is June 12-20.
The millage funds the maintenance and operation of parks, facilities and recreation services throughout East Baton Rouge Parish. It is not a new tax; it is a renewal of a tax that voters first approved in 1987 and renewed in 1997, 2007 and 2016.
The ballot measure would continue with the existing 3.96-mill property tax for 10 more years, preserving BREC’s primary operations and maintenance funding source.
If the Millage Passes
Approval of the millage would allow BREC to continue funding core services at 170+ parks and recreational facilities, including:
- Maintenance and repairs
- Daily operations
- Youth camps
- Senior and other community programs
- Community services
- Landscaping
- Security
- Cleanliness
- Staffing (including lifeguards)
- Facility improvements
- Access to trails, playgrounds and public green space
If the Millage Does Not Pass
Rejection of the millage renewal would force BREC to make significant operational changes impacting the entire system in 2027, including:
- Reduced maintenance capacity resulting in slower repair response times
- Reduced operating budgets resulting in fewer hours of operation or outright closure of facilities and recreation centers
- Fewer youth, senior and other community programs
- Increase in deferred maintenance
- Staffing reductions potentially affecting safety and operations
- Overall decline in park service levels parish-wide
Progress and Momentum
BREC continues to focus on accountability, modernization and long-term sustainability. Some recent examples include:
- Reduction of audit findings from 18 in 2023 to 8 in 2024 with corrective actions underway
- Implementation of the system-wide master plan for long-term improvements
- Streamlined operations to improve efficiency and service delivery
- Ongoing investments in park repairs, upgrades and maintenance
- Expanded community engagement to guide planning and priorities
Commitment to the Community
BREC remains committed to providing safe, accessible and high-quality parks and recreation opportunities while ensuring responsible stewardship of public resources.
“This renewal is simply about sustaining the parks system residents use every day,” BREC Interim Superintendent, Janet Simmons, said. “It ensures we can maintain services, invest in improvements, and continue enhancing quality of life across East Baton Rouge Parish.”