Council Corner

Parks & Recreation Levy

In the City of Happy Valley, the Parks and Recreation Levy provides funding for park operations and maintenance, community events, and recreation programs. The levy is referred to voters every five years, and the current levy is set to expire at the end of Fiscal Year 2027/28. As a voter-approved levy, it’s important for residents to understand how their tax dollars are being utilized. We recently wrapped up a busy summer and fall in our parks system and wanted to provide a brief synopsis of your investment in our community.

Over the past year, levy funding has supported improvements to parks and trails, playground maintenance, recreation programming, and community events. Highlights of the City’s accomplishments include:

  • Opened Scouters Mountain Neighborhood Park to the public.
  • Completed ADA upgrades to Mt. Scott Creek Trail, improving accessibility.
  • Completed the design phase for a new community park.
  • Conducted 323 playground inspections throughout Happy Valley.
  • Completed 124 playground equipment repairs across the City.
  • Responded to 34 trail system service calls to help maintain safe, accessible trails.
  • Advanced planning for the future Clackamas River Trail site.
  • Hosted 15 Field Trip Fridays, providing opportunities for recreation and exploration.
  • Deployed the Recmobile twice a week throughout the year, offering crafts, sports activities, and other engaging opportunities for residents.
  • Hosted a variety of community events, including the Fourth of July celebration, Summer Concert Series, National Night Out, Drive-In Movie, Oktoberfest, Tree Lighting, Public Works Day, Camp Canine and Dumpster Day.

Beyond these accomplishments, the Parks and Recreation team continues to partner with local gyms, fitness studios, and other recreation providers to offer affordable programs for residents of all ages. They also support community members in need by helping deliver Meals on Wheels, with the assistance of dedicated volunteers.

As a City Council, we are proud of the work accomplished through the Parks and Recreation Levy and the positive impact these investments have on our community. From maintaining and improving parks and trails to providing recreation opportunities and bringing residents together through community events, these efforts help make Happy Valley a vibrant place to live, work, and play.