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Council declines discount for Garden Club’s weekday use of Art Center, staff to propose fees
Summary
Council decided not to waive or discount fees for a Garden Club membership meeting during business hours, saying the request lacks a public purpose. Staff noted the city rents the event tent at $2,500 per week (about $78,000/year) and recommended the community center as a lower-cost alternative.
A Garden Club request to use the Orange Beach Art Center during business hours drew debate Tuesday over whether the city should offer a discounted rate for membership-only events.
Staff told council the city does not have an established rate for business-hour use of the art center or for providing certain equipment and that the tent used for events is rented at a city cost of $2,500 per week (an annual rental expense the staff estimated at roughly $78,000). One council member summarized the city's legal obligation: "So the bottom line is there is no public benefit. So there is no discount." The council discussed alternative options, including the community center (staff cited a standard all-day rental fee of $80) and charging only for setup and breakdown.
Council members also raised fairness and precedent concerns if one group received waived or reduced fees; staff and council noted that discounts are only appropriate when a clear public purpose exists. The council did not approve any fee waiver at the meeting and directed staff to bring fee language or a resolution if the council wants to establish a special rate in the future.
Next steps: staff will provide formal fee recommendations and possible resolution language if council wishes to create a policy for nonpublic membership events.
