A new perspective on the Equestrian Park
 by Salt Lake County Councilwoman Aimee Winder Newton
A couple months ago I asked some aggressive questions on my blog, discussing whether the Equestrian Park was a good use of taxpayer funds. I was basing my thoughts on information I received through our budget process. I was told there was no way this facility could ever be profitable, or even break even. When I saw that taxpayers provide a $900,000 annual subsidy for this facility, I was concerned.
I am deeply impressed by the residents of the Equestrian Park Coalition, a group dedicated to the improvement of the Salt Lake County Equestrian Park. I met with  them on Tuesday evening, and these passionate advocates have been integral in providing information and insight.
​
In recent weeks I have learned a great deal about the number of people who benefit from the park, the scope of high-profile events that use the facilities, and the overall value it provides to users, neighbors, and the county as a whole. I had no idea. Yesterday I had a chance to tour the entire facility and learn about all it’s various amenities. It was a great eye opener for me to better understand the value of the park, as well as some of the challenges that need to be resolved.
Moving forward, as we work together to discuss the future of the park, a few key principles should guide our analysis:
  1. I am absolutely committed to efficient and effective use of taxpayer dollars. With every project that this council funds, we should ask whether the benefit to the community justifies the cost to the taxpayer. This principle was the primary motivator for my initial questions about the park, and remains a key focus.
  2. ​I am committed to bringing key stakeholders to the table to work together to find a solution both the park users and county taxpayers find acceptable. The Equestrian Park Coalition has already shown tremendous initiative educating county officials—myself in particular— and offering possible solutions.​
  3. If this park is going to stay, then we as a county need to commit to investing in the park’s future. We will find areas to use taxpayer funds more efficiently, freeing up dollars for other needs, and ultimately reducing our ongoing subsidy of the park. Smart spending coupled with improved management will make a valuable difference​
I fully admit I know a lot more about the park now than I did just a few weeks ago. I want to again thank the members of the Equestrian Park Coalition for their willingness to be pragmatic partners in finding a solution we can all agree on. I’m excited for what’s in store!

Published March 31, 2016

​