In today’s economy it is more important than ever to get the most “bang for your buck.” In that case, the Ironton Recreation Levy is a veritable fireworks display.

The half-mill, five-year property tax levy will be up for renewal this fall and hopefully voters will take the time to look at the tremendously positive impact made by this minimal expense.

It is important to note that this levy has been in place for many years and property owners are already paying for it. This is essentially just allowing it to continue. The levy — which generates a little less than $65,000 each year – pays for the maintenance of the city’s parks and helps fund youth sports including basketball and cheerleading.

At just $15.31 a year for a property owner with a home valued at $100,000, this is a very minimal contribution to the quality of life in Ironton.

Honestly, the levy could benefit from being increased but Ironton leaders know that would be a hard sell for citizens who have become increasingly frustrated with tax levies.

The city’s parks need some attention and improvements. The best way to accomplish this may be to shift more of the expense from the youth sports recreation programs to those who use them freeing up a little bit more money to invest in the parks.

Citizens should let the mayor and the parks director Brett Thomas know what they would like to see.

Getting this level of input will help ensure the recreation department is meeting the needs of the community and also help ensure the community will continue to help meet the needs of the department.