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Staff previews higher park development fees; councilors urge caution amid housing costs
Summary
Staff said updated construction cost data indicate much higher recommended per‑unit park development fees (presented as $31.92 for single‑family and $26.12 for multifamily), but councilors warned raising fees now could worsen housing affordability and asked staff to return with full analysis.
City parks staff told the council on July 21 that the per‑unit park development fees set in 2022 are now below what updated construction cost data would justify and that staff will revisit the fee schedule ahead of the ordinance review due in 2027.
"Based on preliminary review of 2025 and 2026 construction costs, the recommended per‑unit park development fee should be updated to $31.92 for a single family lot, and $26.12 for a multifamily unit," Dakota Crier said during the presentation. Jenny Baker, parks planning and development manager, added that staff and a consultant (Dr. Crompton) and senior leadership reviewed costs when previously setting the discounted rates.
Several council members urged caution. One councilor said housing is more expensive now and suggested that increasing fees amid high interest rates and construction costs could make homes less affordable. Another councilor emphasized that staff presented the numbers as informational "food for thought," not an immediate decision; staff said the fee update will return for full council consideration, with additional vetting and stakeholder input.
