Levy would modernize 50-year-old funding model, provide sustainable recreation budget
The Blaine County Recreation District (BCRD) has announced a proposed override levy that will appear on ballots for the November 2025 election. If approved by voters, the levy will provide a sustainable funding solution to ensure continued access to high-quality recreation opportunities for all Blaine County residents.
“BCRD has been a cornerstone of our community for nearly 50 years, providing essential recreation programs, world-class trails, and spaces for connection, health and wellness,” said Mark Davidson, BCRD executive director. “But in that time, we have seen the county population triple while BCRD’s funding model has not changed. We are reaching a critical juncture where additional resources are needed to maintain the recreational infrastructure we have and prepare to make enhancements in the future.”
BCRD has seen growing demand across its trails and facilities, which supports well over 600,000 user days annually. BCRD provides programming for all ages, abilities, and socioeconomic backgrounds, including youth sports leagues, after-school programs, Nordic ski trails, and access to Galena Lodge. Additionally, by offering financial assistance to those who need, BCRD helps participants access our programs regardless of their economic circumstances, so no one is left on the sidelines.
“We know that increased funding for recreation is ultimately an investment in the people of Blaine County,” said Mat Hall, BCRD board president. “With more demand and rising operational costs, this levy is essential to securing the future of recreation in the Wood River Valley. We have heard from the community through feasibility studies, public surveys, and conversations. We know residents value the trails and recreation spaces that BCRD provides. This funding will allow us to meet current and future needs and serve the community.”
The current levy is $7.81 per $100,000 of home valuation. The proposed levy would provide an additional $13 per $100,000 of home valuation—an estimated increase of $97 annually based on the median priced home. BCRD has provided a levy calculator on their website so homeowners can identify their rate.
Funds from the levy will allow BCRD to maintain community amenities like trails amid rising costs for staff, equipment and repairs. But it will also allow the recreation district to work with the community to create a vision for recreation and plan for new offerings in the future.
BCRD considered proposing a levy for the May 2025 election, but is moving forward with a November 2025 election instead to ensure every voter has time to learn about the proposed funding change in advance of receiving their ballot.
In 2023, a feasibility study confirmed that Blaine County is currently underserved in sports-related recreation infrastructure and that a sustainable funding model is needed to maintain and expand offerings. Without additional funding, BCRD may face limitations on program availability, trail maintenance, and facility improvements.
“This levy is about preserving the quality of life that makes Blaine County special, now and for years to come,” added Davidson. “We encourage residents to think about how recreation is woven into your life and learn more about the proposed levy before the November election.”
For more information on the proposed levy, upcoming community engagement events, and ways to share feedback or recreation visions, visit www.bcrd.org/levy.
