County Parks to Lay-Off Gate Attendants

The No BS Zone has learned that, effective November 11th, the Department of Recreation and Parks will temporarily lay-off gate attendants at Downs, Ft. Smallwood and Kinder Parks. It's anticipated these workers can return to their jobs come February. While this silly move will likely result in Republicans praising their County Executive, it's nothing more than a smoke and mirror reaction that'll have minimal impact on the current fiscal nightmare.

Look, I know about the anticipated cut in state aid. Thus, I realize the inevitable need to cut county expenses. Still, does anyone think this move will even put a dent into the deficit? After all, it could be argued these workers collect enough revenue in an hour to justify their salaries. During their lay-off, the county will adopt the "honor system" for those entering parks. Yeah, I am sure that'll work well.

How about the poor saps that paid for a yearly pass? It's bad enough the cost has increased 60% under the current administration. Now, these people will get less for their money considering anyone can drive in and out of the parks at will over the next 4 months.

No doubt, there are ways to trim the county budget. The Leopold administration owes it to the taxpayers to personally oversee all major expenditures under his watch. In other words, he should hold his department heads more accountable. That would go a lot further than the dog and pony show about to take place at the parks.