The Parks and Recreation Commission meeting held on September 30, 2025, focused on the future of membership options for local recreational facilities in Garden City, Wayne County. Key discussions revolved around the effectiveness of current membership models, including punch cards and drop-in fees, particularly for the Spaceport facility and other specialty rooms.

Commission members expressed concerns about the existing membership structure at Spaceport, which is currently in a trial phase. Feedback has indicated that the pricing may be a barrier for some families. Comparisons were made to the successful drop-in model used at local ice rinks, which do not require memberships and have recently introduced punch cards that offer a more flexible payment option.

The commission is considering various approaches to enhance accessibility and affordability for families. Suggestions included maintaining the current membership model, expanding punch card options, or continuing with drop-in fees. Members noted that punch cards could provide a balance between commitment and flexibility, allowing families to pay for only what they use without the burden of recurring membership fees.

The discussion also highlighted the need for a more comprehensive membership plan that could include different levels of access to various facilities, such as game rooms and fitness areas. Some members voiced concerns about the commitment required with memberships, especially for families with young children who may not frequently use the facilities.

As the commission moves forward, they aim to gather more input from the community to guide their decisions on the best membership structure. The next steps will involve evaluating the trial membership at Spaceport and considering the implementation of punch cards and drop-in options across other facilities. This approach seeks to ensure that recreational services remain accessible and appealing to all residents.