Why the charge to enter Sebald Park

Came back from Huston Woods today and was going to stop at Sebald Park for a few. Haven't been there in years wanted to see the park. But as I pull in the Park I see that it cost $7  for a day pass. Isn’t this Park a public Park that tax $ pay for ? If I am wrong someone please tell me.
I found this on  Middletown city’s  web site    2009 MOTOR VEHICLE PERMITS ON SALE NOW!! $7/Windshield Stickers; $10/Transferable Hangtags; $5/daily permit
Purchasing your permit is easy!! Permits are available to be purchased on-line with Mastercard or Visa; at any park location from park ranger staff; or from our Administrative Headquarters at 2051 Timberman Road in Ross Township (Monday thru Friday 8:30 a.m. until 5:00 p.m.)

Can someone please tell me Why if tax $ pay for the Park why are we having to pay to visit it ?

 

Aren't Metro Parks suppose to be free? Are they not city ran ? do my tax $ not pay for that park? that is my ? I would rather just drive to Huston Woods thanpay to enter Sebald

You know public means public not a money maker.

here&now>    YES>YES>YES>  Your tax $ does pay for the park.

The Metroparks budgets takes hits all of the time, the only way to keep them up is to make it pay to play. I think you even have to pay to rent the big shelters now. It stinks but otherwise the park would have to be shut down and many others. Here is the weird thing though, I have been approached by the county folk several times at Sebald and was asked if I had a pass. At VOA, also a Metropark, never been asked.

This is common, Hamilton County does the same thing with many of their parks - Whitewater, Sharon Woods, etc. all charge. State parks are usually free.