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Council questions camp fees, attendance and equity as Rec & Parks weighs data-driven adjustments
Summary
Committee members asked Rec & Parks about summer camp fees, attendance patterns and supports for low-income families. The agency said camps range from $75 to $400 for the season, offer payment plans, and the team will supply revenue figures in two weeks.
Council members pressed Baltimore City Recreation and Parks about summer camp pricing, attendance patterns and equity supports during the FY26 budget hearing.
Lede: Rec and Parks officials said the agency offers a range of summer camps — prices cited from $75 for a season up to $400 for premium offerings — and that program staff are studying attendance patterns to see how price and participation relate. The committee asked for a revenue breakdown and for clearer outreach about scholarships or payment plans for low-income families.
Why it matters: council members said even nominal fees can be a barrier for some families and asked how the agency ensures access, especially as camps require staff ratios that increase costs when attendance is inconsistent.
What the agency said: Director Moore and staff said the agency offers a broad menu of camps (weekly and full‑summer options, STEM and therapeutic programming) and has payment plans; they also work with social services to reserve slots for families in need. Chief of programs said Rec and Parks will provide revenue figures and a program-by-program breakdown within two weeks.
Transportation and access: council members raised transportation as a barrier and asked whether the agency could coordinate with other departments and local partners to support transport. The agency said many rec centers host camps in each district to maximize neighborhood access, and that specialized transportation solutions require additional planning and cost study.
Ending: Rec and Parks will return with camp revenue data and said it will continue to expand outreach about payment plans and available supports so families know how to register and access financial help.
