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Fishermen and veterans say higher Prairie Creek fees risk reducing turnout; board cites revenue loss from docks and campsites
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Summary
Two public commenters said recent boat‑launch and campsite fee increases at Prairie Creek are deterring participants in events and everyday use; the board said rates were adopted to offset anticipated lost revenue tied to reduced docks and campsites.
Two speakers told the Muncie Parks and Recreation Board on March 17 that recent fee increases at Prairie Creek are creating practical and financial barriers for regular users and event organizers.
Roger Dittmeyer, who runs the Catfish Pirates tournament and volunteers with AMVETS Post 12, said the boat‑launch fee increase from $15 to $30 has already reduced turnout for his veterans’ fishing tournament (May 23). "I was able to raise $12,000 last year; if people stop coming because of the fee hike, that's going to hurt the veterans we support," Dittmeyer said. He asked the board to consider an alternative tournament rate or other accommodations for organizers that use the park for fundraising.
Wayne (surname stated as "Skate" in the transcript) also questioned why the parks department raised rates so sharply. Chair responded that the fee schedule was adopted in September in anticipation of lost revenue after the parks planned to pause awarding docks and campsites in coordination with the American Water Company, and to offset revenue the department projects it would lose through attrition. "At that point, we were planning for a loss in revenue from docks and campsites," the Chair said.
The board did not take an immediate vote to change rates. Chair suggested staff and organizers work together to document event turnout and the financial impact of the fee change to inform future adjustments. Staff invited Roger and other tournament organizers to share expected turnout numbers so the department can evaluate alternative fee structures for events.
