The Special District Leadership Foundation’s Transparency Challenge District Spotlight:
Rio Linda Elverta Recreation and Parks District
It is now more important than ever for local governments (including special districts) to be open and accessible to the public. The Special District Leadership Foundation’s Transparency Challenge showcases the many steps districts take to show they are available and transparent to their constituents and customers.
The Special District Leadership Foundation (SDLF) recognizes Rio Linda Elverta Recreation and Parks District as one of the ten 2021 SDLF Transparency Challenge winners! The district shares about the process, the benefits of this transparency recognition, and some more about their district below.
Share your experience completing the Transparency Challenge. (What did you learn about your district? How difficult was the application process?)
This was the second time that I have been the lead person in completing the SDLF Transparency application for Rio Linda Elverta Recreation and Parks District. It was much easier to complete the application this time around because of our new website platform, which makes it easier to find the necessary items needed to demonstrate our transparency. Also, a lot of the information was more readily accessible as our district kept it up to date since the first time we completed our application. We did learn that our district is very transparent as we were able to offer answers for over 90% of the requested requirements on the application.
Why was completing the challenge important to your district?
Completing the challenge has been important to Rio Linda Elverta Recreation and Parks District for many years. It gives the district a sense of pride to know that we are up to date and readily able to produce our documents for any of our residents. Also, it was a priority made by our board of directors when I first started working for the district. This priority was accomplished and keeping it up to date has become part of our daily responsibilities. Completing the challenge gives our district board and staff a sense of pride.
Now that you have earned your SDLF Transparency Certificate, how will you use the recognition to highlight your district’s accomplishment to your customers, constituents, and/or other stakeholders?
Rio Linda Elverta Recreation and Parks District will show this recognition through our website as well as display our certificates in our building for visitors to see. We send out a press release to our stakeholders and we are discussing the possibility of advertising our SDLF Transparency Certificate within our activity guide production.
About Rio Linda Elverta Recreation and Parks District
The Rio Linda Recreation and Parks District hosts many exciting programs, events, and classes for the entire family. In addition, the district provides great open spaces, parks, and facilities for community use. The Rio Linda and Elverta communities are fortunate to be surrounded by tremendous park and recreation amenities for their enjoyment. The Rio Linda Elverta Recreation and Parks District is proud to be part of such a vibrant and unique geographic area not only in the North Sacramento area but the nation. To learn more about the district, visit www.rleparks.com.