In Our Opinion … Recreation programs are worthy of renewing tax

Last week, Hamtramck School Boardmember Linda Wolyniec presented a summation of what our community’s recreation program offers the public.
The program depends on voters to support a special recreation tax to fund the program. The tax is expiring this year, and voters are being asked in the upcoming Aug. 4 primary election to renew the tax for another 10 years.
And, before we go much further, it should be pointed out that this is not a new tax. Nor is it an increase in the existing tax. Hamtramck voters are simply being asked to renew the recreation program’s 10-year tax to continue operations.
Keep in mind, this tax supports your parks, festivals and community programs. And there’s a huge offering of programs and activities for all ages.
We understand family budgets are extremely tight these days, and many residents are cutting back on expenses. Plus, a number of residents are rightly upset at how much they pay for water and sewer service.
But, as with those two services, our recreation programs are just as important, especially if we all want to enjoy quality of life benefits.
OK, we can hear some of the naysayers snicker at this statement. Well, go right ahead.
But for those of you, and there are many, who enjoy the various programs and parks the school district provides and maintains -- and yes, the recreation department is part of the school district --this tax renewal plays a vital role in our lives.

Here’s a reminder of some of those recreation programs and services that Wolyniec outlined:
• Summer camp, karate, soccer, baseball, cricket, basketball and dance for our youth. There are adult fitness and sports leagues. A pool at Hamtramck High School offers open swimming, swimming lessons and water aerobics.

• The community center has a weight room, sauna, basketball courts and fitness classes.

• Recreation also provides senior programs such as field trips and tailored fitness classes. Recreation also provides special events like Movies in the Park, Fall Harvest, Parent and Me dances, Snowfest, and the popular “Trunk or Treat” before Halloween.

As to the anti-taxers – who are against any tax, no matter what its purpose – well, it’s unlikely we can convince them to support this tax.
To a degree, we understand.
However, in our opinion, this is a quality of life issue. Can the program be improved? Of course, and suggestions on how our recreation tax money can be spent should be heard and seriously considered. To that we heartily agree.
But let’s not let those who oppose taxes for any reason decide on what a number of folks here find important and an vital part of their lives.
We urge voters to cast their support for the tax renewal, which amounts to a mere $150 a year — for some more — for many households. In other words, vote YES on renewing the recreation tax in this Aug. 4 primary election.
Many of our residents have already received their absentee ballot and are already casting their votes.
Don’t let this opportunity pass us by.
And yes, no matter how you feel about the issue, be sure to let your voice be heard and vote.
Now, what do you, dear readers, have to say about the matter? Drop us a line, at news@thehamtramckreview.com, and let us and our community know how you feel about this issue.
Posted July 10, 2026