Commissioner seeks community help to save parks

County Commissioner Jim Adkins said he remembers when the community would pull together and help maintain local parks used for sporting events and picnics and other family activities.

Adkins said it's time to get back to those days, especially when Hernando County is strolling to find money to keep parks open because of budget concerns.

Specifically, Adkins said he wants to see more volunteerism on the part of parents, coaches, sports leagues and civic-minded citizens to help clean up the grounds and facilities at parks. He said he will bring it up during Tuesday's budget workshop, which begins at 9 a.m. at the Hernando County Government Center, 20 North Main St. in downtown Brooksville.

"We've got to take care of our kids and it will take some community involvement," Adkins said.

More than 100 people showed up in force at a May county commission meeting to protest proposed budget cuts, especially the potential closing of five parks: Hill n' Dale Community Park, Stewy's Skate Park, the athletic fields at Ernie Wever Park, Linda Pedersen Park (except for special events) and the Nobleton, Istachatta and Lake Townsen regional parks.

Adkins said he will also float the idea of using jail crews to help maintain some of the county boat ramps slated to close.

But the biggest chunk of Tuesday's workshop is expected to focus on the recently submitted constitutional officers' budgets, which fell a combined $2 million short of recommended targets.

All five elected officers are on the agenda, which includes follow-up reports from Community Services Director Jean Rags, Land Services Director Ronald Pianta and Administrative Services Director Cheryl Marsden.

Budget Services Manager George Zoettlein will present a recap of the fiscal year 2011-12 budget and where the county stands on the $6.7 million general fund deficit.

Commissioner Wayne Dukes said he will propose all board members reduce their pay 5 percent.

County commissioners are paid $61,100 annually, so a 5 percent reduction would cut their salaries about $3,000.