ROLE OF THE MUNICIPALITIES

Historically, public recreation in Catawba County started with the Hickory and Newton Parks and Recreation Departments. A significant percentage of the participation in programs offered by the Hickory Department live outside the City limits. The primary responsibility of the Department is to provide first for the citizens of its own jurisdiction. This is appropriate inasmuch as those who pay taxes should be the first to enjoy the benefits of the programs offered.

The Department should also assume the responsibility of coordinating all recreation programs offered within the City, and of cooperating with other agencies such as the Arts Council, the school system and the YMCA. Further, the Department should constantly seek ways to combine and coordinate programs with the County as it becomes increasingly involved in recreation.

Specific recommendations for improving services within the City are found in Chapter VI of this report.