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County considers seasonal fee increases and shifting credit‑card costs for parks reservations
Summary
County staff presented a draft to consider seasonal rate increases for overnight camping at Harry Gardner and pavilion rentals at Riverside, and proposed passing credit‑card processing fees to users. Commissioners asked for reservation and transaction counts before any formal decision.
Cowlitz County Public Works presented a draft proposal for possible park fee adjustments focused on overnight camping at Harry Gardner and pavilion/picnic rentals at Riverside, emphasizing that general park access would remain free.
"We're here today to really gauge the temperature of the board," the public services director said, noting the proposal is only a discussion item and that the park board has already vetted the rates. Staff told commissioners the county remains among the lowest‑priced parks in the region and that the proposed increases could be seasonal (June 1–Aug. 31) to protect off‑season rates for regular users.
Commissioners asked how many reservations and credit‑card transactions the parks handle; staff said most reservations are made online and offered to provide exact counts to the board. Staff also proposed adding a small cancellation or nonrefundable fee to reduce no‑shows and suggested passing credit‑card processing fees on to purchasers rather than absorbing them in the general fund.
The discussion also touched on special‑use permits for vendors (food trucks and similar), mowing and field‑maintenance arrangements with local sport groups, and the Riverside pavilion's first‑come/first‑served policy when not reserved. No action was taken; staff will return with reservation/transaction data and a formal presentation if the board wants to proceed.
