May 24, 2023 FOMP Meeting Summary

Introductory discussion about existing Parks levy (approved for $850M in 20189, runs through 2025). Provides considerable funding for operating and maintaining KC Parks Division (excluding CAPEX).

Just passed the mid-point of the current levy. Expect to see additional communication regarding accomplishments and goals in advance of the next levy vote.
Levy provides ~ 85% of total KC Parks budget. Remaining 15% comes from revenue, real estate excise tax, other minor sources.,/p>
FOMP has a long history of providing objective input to KC Parks regarding revenue generation ideas and proposals, and the benefits and impacts to Marymoor’s users.

Cricket discussion:

Demand and popularity is growing within the County. Pickle ball is likely the only more popular, growing recreational sport.

KC Parks leadership referenced a community group that has raised the prospect of major league cricket.

Comments from FOMP that recreational cricket is not supported by, nor does it benefit from, a professional cricket facility. If recreational cricket is growing, then KC Parks should use the Master Plan process to assess the demand and evaluate a reasonable community response specific to recreational cricket.
There is belief within the community (fueled by published articles in the media and statements from council members) is that a professional cricket facility is a done deal. KC Parks was asked to address that perception.

KC Parks replied that they have been transparent with cricket proponents that a dedicated facility does not align with KC Parks’ mission. Additionally, other challenges exist, such as infrastructure, regulatory process, etc. KC Parks’ position is that a professional cricket facility is not a done deal. The Bellevue property (softball fields where the professional cricket facility is proposed) would need to be acquired by King County before anything could realistically proceed; KC Parks leadership noted that the property acquisition is mired in complexity and uncertain.
KC Parks was asked if Major League Cricket proponents would come to a FOMP meeting to discuss proposal and process in a more transparent manner?

KC Parks offered to extend the invitation.
KC Parks was asked if there is market research information that can be shared that demonstrates the growing demand for recreational cricket (specifically in our area)? FOMP pointed out that many recreational sports organizations have requested space in Marymoor and other parks.

Shai described information about the existing professional cricket facility in Texas (may be the only comparable to the facility proposed for Marymoor). The Texas facility has a central field that is only used for professionals. Outside surrounding facilities are available for recreational users via reservations and fees for instructors through the professional cricket organization.

FOMP pointed out that the Texas facility represents an example showing that recreational cricket would have no access to the primary field, just like recreational soccer player don’t get access to the Sounders’ field.
FOMP attendees all reiterated concern that the professional cricket facility would be detrimental to Marymoor and would cause significant impact to the park users and infrastructure.

KC Parks expressed the desire to continue discussion and attend meetings to maintain the dialogue.

Director Jimenez thanked FOMP for the partnership and input.

May 24, 2023 Meeting Summary