[Source: Associated Press] — The head of the state Parks Department says five or more state parks could be closed as a result of spending cuts and fund transfers included in a legislative budget-balancing plan. Parks Director Ken Travous said Friday he’ll be forced to recommend the closures of five parks to the Parks Board to help implement the funding changes included in the legislative plan.
Travous declined to identify which of the 27 parks would face closure before he makes a recommendation to the board for consideration next week. But he said several more parks could be closed by summer. He said the funding cuts would mean layoffs for approximately 100 employees, including 60 seasonal personnel who are already furloughed without pay. [Note: To read the full article, click here.]