Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Parks Fees Access topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Council tweaks parks master fee schedule, approves needs‑based income threshold for recreation discounts
Summary
Council approved changes to the Parks master fee schedule that shift some program fees to variable cost‑recovery lines and increase certain program fees (estimated $24,500 annual revenue) and separately adopted updated federal income guidelines for needs‑based rec center discounts and activity scholarships.
The City Council on May 6 approved several updates to the Parks, Recreation and Public Services master fee schedule and adopted an income threshold for needs‑based discounts for recreation center memberships and activity scholarships.
Parks Director Bork told council the last comprehensive fee update occurred in February 2024 and most changes were only implemented in October 2024. This packet proposes modest adjustments: consolidating and reclassifying some program fees into cost‑recovery lines, increases to the Adventure Kids (after‑school and summer camp) program, and adjustments to facility rental rates. Staff estimated an annual revenue increase of about $24,500. The Parks, Trees and Recreation Advisory Board recommended unanimous approval.
Separately, council approved updated income guidelines for needs‑based discounts at the recreation center, aligning the program with current federal income thresholds. Director Bork said the previous adjustment in May 2022 (implemented in 2024) produced 89 households using discounts; the updated thresholds will allow continued eligibility review based on current federal figures.
Council discussion noted the importance of keeping Adventure Kids affordable for families while also recognizing program capacity and cost pressures. Councilor Newman said she would not support the fee changes, citing affordability concerns; the master fee schedule changes passed 8‑1. The income‑based discount thresholds passed unanimously.
