Historic Charlton Park had 30,327 people visit the park in 2018, and that’s not counting those who used the recreation area, swimming, boating and walking.
“In summary, Historic Charlton Park Village, Museum & Recreation Area continues to be a major attraction for Barry County and an economic engine for our community,” Director Dan Patton said in his annual report to Barry County Commissioners. “Our attendance numbers and revenue remain steady and our commitment to appropriate management has never been stronger.”
Highlights of the report show collections at the park and museum totaled 20,841, with 35, 569 images, 1,436 new records entered and 2,290 records updated.
The 13 special programs attract 17,688 people to the park and the 84 education programs for school children from a wide area attracted 4,527 in 2018. Facility rentals numbered 59 last year, involving 5,638 people.
Patton has always stressed the importance of volunteers to the park. In 2018, volunteer hours totaled 1,885 by 135 people. The numbers are usually low because some volunteers don’t sign in or report all of their hours.
Park revenue in 2018 was $683,177.09.
Financially, the main sources of income were from millage ($435,804.66), grants and the foundation ($26,233.66), special events ($66,659.08), non-millage ($149,466.43), and transfer-in ($97,906).
Expenses for the year were $620,105.37.
Personnel ($341,795.64), capital building and equipment ($107,227.76), special events ($32,953.97), utilities ($24, 818. 01) and other ($53,916.18) were major expenses during 2018.
“Visitors from near and far are spending their dollars locally acquiring goods, shopping, staying overnight and eating at our local restaurants,” Patton said.
“While we celebrate our successes, we continue to move our organization forward. In the coming year, you will hear about ways you can get involved with our efforts to preserve Barry County history while supporting activities for families in our community.
“We will continue to serve the citizens of Barry County while promoting our economic tourism opportunities to all of West Michigan and the state.”
