Exciting New Parks Coming to Pascagoula Funded by Food and Beverage Tax!

Pascagoula, Mississippi, is a special place for childhood memories. From splash pads to summer ballgames, parks play a key role in family fun. Recently, a 2% tax on restaurant food and drinks has helped enhance these parks, creating spaces where families can gather and enjoy time together.

A local resident, Charlotte Jerde, shared a memorable moment at Beach Park during her granddaughter’s first birthday. “There were so many people there,” she said, recalling the joy of watching her granddaughter explore the splash pad for the first time. “She really enjoyed it.” This cherished experience is a direct result of the city’s restaurant tax, which has generated about a million dollars annually since 2013. The funds have supported improvements across Pascagoula, from new playgrounds to a ten-million-dollar sports complex.

Justin Larsen, the city manager, explained that the tax was part of the 2012 parks and recreation master plan. “It aimed to upgrade parks,” he noted, highlighting the sports complex as a major achievement. The complex now hosts weekend tournaments, drawing teams and visitors that boost the local economy. “These visitors support our businesses,” Larsen added.

While many residents knew about the tax, they were often unaware of its benefits. Jerde admitted, “I knew about the tax, but I didn’t really know what it funded. Now I see it’s a good reason to have it.” For families like hers, these parks symbolize more than just recreational spaces; they’re about creating lasting memories.

The parks also require ongoing maintenance. According to Jerde, a significant amount of the tax revenue goes toward field upkeep and lighting. “Every 15 years, playgrounds need a complete overhaul, and Pascagoula has many,” she explained. With over a dozen parks to manage, this funding is crucial to keep them safe and enjoyable.

For many families, the parks are places to connect and share experiences. As Jerde put it, “It’s not just about us; it’s about the next generation too.” Her enthusiasm for the parks is shared by others, with many encouraging newcomers to visit and see what’s available.

Interestingly, a recent survey revealed that 79% of Pascagoula residents support the restaurant tax, appreciating its direct impact on enhancing community spaces. This statistic shows that while tax can be a sensitive topic, when people see tangible benefits, their perspectives often change.

The joy that these parks bring is evident. They offer a sense of community and create lasting bonds among families. As more people discover the value of their local parks, the hope is to sustain and grow these beloved spaces for future generations.

Learn more about the benefits of local taxes and community development [here](https://www.nationalparks.org).

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