John Olson: Parks and recreation bond an investment in community
About the writer: John Olson spent four years in career development and strategic partnership roles at Linfield University before being named president and chief executive officer at the McMinnville Area Chamber of Commerce in March of 2024. He had previously spent 20 years in leadership positions with nonprofits.
Imagine a McMinnville where families, young professionals and businesses all thrive — a city with modern recreational facilities, vibrant community connections and strong economic growth. That vision is within reach, but it requires action.
The McMinnville Area Chamber of Commerce proudly endorses Measure 36-237, the Community Parks and Recreation Bond appearing on McMinnville’s Nov. 4 ballot, because it represents a smart, forward-looking investment in our city’s future.
When companies evaluate where to locate or expand, quality of life is a top factor.
Communities with strong parks and recreation amenities consistently attract new business investment. Upgrading McMinnville’s facilities will make our city a more competitive place for companies to grow, helping them thrive while boosting our local economy.
Throughout the United States, local park and recreation agencies generate more than $200 billion in economic activity and support more than 1 million jobs. In Oregon, the outdoor recreation industry contributed $8.4 billion to the state’s economy in 2023, funding nearly 73,000 full- and part-time jobs.
These numbers illustrate the real economic power of recreation investments — benefits that start locally and ripple outward.
The bond also addresses a critical workforce challenge.
Families and young professionals want to live in communities supporting wellness, recreation and opportunities to connect. By consolidating two outdated facilities into one modern recreation center, the city will provide a cost-effective, sustainable hub for health, wellness, and community life.
For local employers, this means a stronger ability to recruit and retain skilled talent, keeping McMinnville competitive for years to come.
Parks and recreation are about more than economic statistics — they are about people and community. They are about spaces where children learn teamwork, seniors stay active and neighbors meet and build relationships.
A modernized recreation center will serve as a gathering place, strengthening civic pride and reinforcing McMinnville’s identity as a vibrant, forward-looking city. Investments in recreational facilities also improve physical and mental well-being, reducing healthcare costs and enhancing quality of life for all residents.
This bond is fiscally responsible. By consolidating two aging facilities, the city reduces inefficiencies, lowers maintenance costs and ensures sustainable infrastructure for decades. It is an investment that meets today’s needs while preparing McMinnville for tomorrow’s opportunities.
Voting yes on Measure 36-237 is not just about recreation, it’s also about economic vitality, workforce development and community well-being. It’s represents a commitment to a city that values its people, supports its businesses and plans wisely for the future.
By choosing yes, McMinnville residents will create a stronger, healthier and more connected community — one that attracts families, businesses and talent for generations to come.
Join us in investing in McMinnville’s future. Vote yes on Measure 36-237.
Comments
NJINILNCCAOR
You’ll notice he doesn’t mention the dollar cost here.
That’s because they are shockingly high.
We don’t need these expensive structures that will only be used by a small fraction of Mac’s population.
Vote no!
Otis
You want nice things? Tax the billionaires.
(unless they own a media company that's convinced you not to tax them)
NativeOregonian
Imagine a community where your children can afford to buy a home and raise their children there. It's not McMinnville.
B
Much discussion about the impact on homeowners. How about renters?
tagup
Is there any research into usage of these facilities? what percentage of the community actually uses the pool & Rec center currently?
CubFan
B...
If the bond passes, I believe all residential properties in McMinnville will pay a higher tax rate. Landlords will have the discretion to pass along the higher tax rate by raising rent.
Lulu
Some of us simply can't afford to underwrite your kiddos' endless summer activities. Maybe Water & Light can subsidize this outrageous dream--they're quite adept at bleeding dry their rate payers. It reminds me of the death by a thousand cuts.
Bob
For the record PERS costs are responsible for at least 50%of city and citizen current financial woes (a minor financial problem in the 70’s allowed to increase yearly for fifty years).
But on the issue of measure 36-237, I have a separate bone to pick. I have never voted against a city bond measure in forty plus years. But that was before city councilors Sal Peralta, Zach Geary, and current interim city manager Garvin basically conned citizens to vote in favor of a fire department reorganization that cost citizens far more than they were led to believe. Then instead of figuring out how to absorb that mistake internally, voted to “temporarily” raise citizens Water and Light bills a measly million or two a year at least four years ago. Those fee increases paid the original shortage amount several years ago. But the monthly fee continues.
So at this point, even though I am stupid enough that I would still vote in support of a stand alone recreation center bond (no parks, library, senior center, etc, etc). But, based on city councils continued deafness to citizen concerns, I will never vote for another city bond until the current W&L charge is cancelled. And Geary, Garvin, Peralta are private citizens.