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Financial Assessment <br />To help ensure ALP has sound financial means to meet <br />current and future needs, BerryDunn also reviewed its <br />revenue and expenditures for fiscal years 2019 — 2023. <br />The financial analysis reveals a well -run, professional <br />department with sophisticated tracking systems <br />in place. Despite the fluctuations in revenues and <br />expenses, the detailed financial records demonstrate <br />a strong commitment to financial transparency and <br />effective resource management. <br />Programming <br />ALP's focus on its active adult population —ages 50 <br />and above —has been very successful and is filling <br />a void in the community. Those that participate in <br />programming expressed an appreciation for staff and <br />the variety of program offerings. <br />Additionally, engagement results found there is a <br />strong interest in outdoor, self -guided activities, <br />and the need for more inclusive and accessible <br />recreational opportunities for all ages and abilities <br />in Cabarrus County. While walking trails and nature - <br />based activities rank as top priorities, residents also <br />expressed a desire for additional programs in fitness, <br />wellness, cultural arts, and environmental education. <br />The assessment also identified gaps in programming, <br />particularly for teens, individuals with disabilities, and <br />non -English-speaking communities, especially the <br />growing Hispanic population. <br />Another key finding that was revealed through the <br />Statistically Valid Survey is that many residents (67%) <br />are unaware of available programs, contributing to <br />low participation rates. This highlights the need for <br />improved communication and marketing efforts. <br />Program recommendations include diversifying <br />offerings to cater to all age groups, enhancing outdoor <br />adventure and environmental programs, and working <br />to ensure equitable access across the County. To <br />improve equity in recreation access, ALP should focus <br />on underserved populations and expanding outreach, <br />particularly in areas where parks and programs are not <br />easily accessible. <br />Active Living and Parks I Comprehensive Master Plan <br />Benchmark Comparison <br />In addition to analyzing ALP's system, BerryDunn <br />conducted a comparative benchmark analysis of park <br />and recreation departments in Gaston, Iredell, Rowan, <br />and Union Counties. Key findings of the study focused <br />on three main categories: <br />Operating Budget and Revenue: ALP operates <br />with an annual budget of $3.8 million, which is on <br />the lower end compared to its peers. The County's <br />earned revenue, at approximately $745,538, also <br />ranks low compared to other counties like Rowan, <br />which generates $1.48 million in revenue. <br />Parks and Trails: ALP currently manages 521 acres <br />of developed parkland, with 1,258 acres planned for <br />future development. Compared to other counties, <br />ALP falls behind in terms of both total park acreage <br />and miles of natural surface trails. Gaston leads with <br />1,399 acres of parkland, while Rowan offers 24 miles <br />of trails, double that of Cabarrus. <br />Capital Investment: ALP's five-year capital <br />budget plan includes $9.3 million in funding for <br />improvements, which is relatively modest compared <br />to other counties. Rowan, for instance, has <br />allocated $15 million in capital expenditures over <br />the same period. <br />Page155 <br />