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After heated debate, Panama City temporarily waives Oak Grove Field fees for Saint Andrews Soccer Club and asks staff to standardize nonprofit fee policy
Summary
Following extended public comment and debate over whether the group is a travel club or community nonprofit, the commission allowed Saint Andrews Soccer Club temporary use of Oak Grove Field for spring practices and instructed staff to return a standardized nonprofit fee policy and a report on current field users by March 10; vote 4-1.
The Panama City Commission voted Feb. 10 to allow Saint Andrews Soccer Club to use Oak Grove Field for spring practice and to temporarily waive rental fees while staff prepares a standard policy for nonprofit field use and a report showing who is using city fields and who is paying fees.
Rachel Boswell, who said she represents Saint Andrews Soccer Club, told the commission the organization planned two practice nights per week for the spring season and asked for fee relief because the club is fundraising and does not currently have $40,000 up front. “We never said we wouldn't pay, but we are asking that the fee either be reduced or waived as is the precedent that has been set for other nonprofit organizations within the city,” Boswell said.
Commission debate focused on whether the club operates as a community-based nonprofit or a travel club that compensates coaches. Several speakers, including James Lee representing the Hill Improvement Society, urged the commission to protect historic Oak Grove Field for community use rather than grant a priority agreement or no-fee usage to a single club.
Commissioner Granger and others argued for a consistent policy applying to all nonprofits; Commissioner Lucas voiced concern about creating exceptions. After amendments to the original motion to require staff to return a standardized nonprofit fee schedule and a list of organizations currently using city fields by March 10, the commission approved the temporary waiver and staff direction 4-1.
Staff will evaluate existing arrangements and present a recommended standard for how the city treats nonprofit field users going forward.
