The Department of Recreation and Parks is a City Charter created independent department under the control and management of a five member citizen board of commissioners (Board of Recreation and Park Commissioners). The department is semi-proprietary, like the Library, meaning the department is responsible for some of its own collection, spending, and support.

As outlined in the City Charter, RAP has a dedicated stream of revenue receiving 0.0325% of assessed value of all property, but is eligible to get additional money from the City Council. The RAP Board of Commissioners is in control of its own funds. Any funding allocated by Charter Mandate or that RAP generates directly is controlled, appropriated, and expended by the Board.

RAP’S Authority from the City Charter and Administrative Code

In addition to controlling its own funds, the Department of Recreation and Parks Board creates necessary staffing positions and authorizes the Department to carry out the powers and duties imposed by the City Charter like the control and management of all recreation and park sites, establishment of policies, execution of contracts and agreements, and acquisition of property. Figures 102 and 103 highlight what RAP has the authority to control from the city charter and administrative code and what falls outside of their authority.

While RAP has authority to manage its budget and much of what happens on Recreation and Park sites, some authority for recreation and parks is vested in other authorities.