Council introduces summer recreation fee changes, adds 10% refund fee and updates program maximums

The Township Council introduced Ordinance 25-06 on Feb. 18 to update fees and refund rules for the township’s summer recreation (summer rec) program. The council approved introduction at first reading and authorized publication and a public hearing.

Key changes in the ordinance packet presented to council include a revision to refunds and updated maximums for the program. Under the ordinance language discussed, a full refund is issued if requested in writing within 14 days of registration; after that period refunds would be reduced by 10% of the base program amount. Council members said the 10% rule is intended to discourage families from reserving spots and cancelling at the last minute while other residents remained wait-listed.

Administration and recreation staff explained the proposal responds to recurring wait-list and cancellation issues. The packet lists new maximum base program amounts: in-town resident first participant up to $5.25, in-town additional participant up to $5.10; out-of-town resident first participant up to $6.30, out-of-town additional participant up to $6.15. Staff said the actual program base used for budget planning is $5.25 for in-town residents.

Council members debated whether a flat $25 refund fee from prior years would be fairer than a percentage-based 10% fee, especially for higher-cost registrations that include excursions. After discussion council agreed to the 10% approach but noted the council could revisit rates later in the year.

The ordinance was introduced by motion and passed first reading; Resolution 25-178 was approved to publish the ordinance and schedule the public hearing. The ordinance will return for public hearing and final adoption at the date set in the public notice.