Parks staff warn revenue covers only part of costs; commission considers Quimby fees and Olympic partnering opportunities

Parks staff told the commission on April 10 that while the department brings in roughly $2 million a year through rentals and program fees, operating expenses exceed program revenue and the department relies on general fund support and grants for infrastructure.

The department discussed several revenue strategies. Staff described Quimby fees—development impact fees assessed on new housing to offset park demand—and said the city began work on a Quimby approach before COVID stalled the effort. “Part of that process requires them to pay a fee for parks and rec… you’re going to impact the parks and rec, you’re going to need to help us offset that,” a parks staff member said. Staff said bringing the Quimby discussion back to community development and council would be appropriate but noted it would require public approval in many forms.

Commissioners also discussed leveraging regional opportunities tied to LA 84/LA28 Olympic partnerships. The department said it has joined countywide discussions and has already put South Gate on lists for potential festival venues, practice sites and sponsorships. Staff said LA 84 has grants and volunteer‑partner opportunities and that the city submitted survey material for possible hosting or practice site roles. “We are part of the planning set up for that,” staff said. Departments noted that any Olympic‑related hosting would be voluntary and that funding or sponsorship arrangements from LA 84/LA28 remain to be finalized.

The commission received and filed the revenues report.