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Council approves fee changes for the Barn community center and rules for additional garbage cans
Summary
The West Haven City Council on May 20 approved changes to the consolidated fee schedule that raise and clarify rental rules for the Barn community center and require a 12‑month minimum period for additional garbage can requests.
The West Haven City Council on May 20 approved Resolution 12-2025, which amends the city’s consolidated fee schedule to adjust user fees for the Barn community center and to change the policy on additional residential garbage cans.
City Manager Sean summarized the proposal in advance of the public hearing, saying staff compared the Barn’s fees to similar venues in neighboring municipalities and noted the facility requires ongoing upkeep as the joint project with Nelson Homes settles into regular operations. He said staff included a proposed all‑day rental fee in the packet and explained the staff rationale and discount method is documented in the staff report.
The resolution includes three notable items: a revised schedule of hourly and all‑day rental rates for residents and nonresidents (the staff report contains specific proposed rates), a provision allowing city employees and elected officials one complimentary use of the facility, and a change to the policy for additional garbage cans so that a request must remain in place for 12 months before a new request can be granted. The 12‑month requirement was described by staff as intended to discourage short-term requests that coincide with seasonal peak waste months.
Councilors asked whether the city could waive the 12‑month requirement when a household changes occupants; staff said there is a general waiver provision in the front of the consolidated fee schedule that allows reductions or waivers in unique circumstances. Council discussion also touched on whether an all‑day rental rate would discourage shorter bookings; the city manager noted that a day rate was proposed with a modest discount (staff report) and the council could choose the final dollar amounts.
The council opened and closed a public hearing (no public commenters) and approved the resolution by roll call. The record shows unanimous support among council members present.
Staff will update the consolidated fee schedule and publish the revised fee table and waiver procedure in the city’s fee schedule packet.
