Title
Meridian Sports Park Fees and Charges - Proposed Changes
Proposed Motion(s)
That Council approve the proposed changes to the Meridian Sports Park Fees and Charges as presented.
Body
Administration Recommendation(s)
Administration is in support of the changes being proposed.
Purpose
As per Policy, any changes to fees and charges must be approved by Council, therefore it is being brought forward for your consideration.
Summary
Through the budget process, Administration identified that the costs to operate Meridian Sports Park continue to rise whereas overall revenues are not rising proportionately resulting in a lower recovery rate. While the majority of the increased costs to operate are staffing related, there have been regular increases to materials and supplies as well as other external costs due number of large tournaments being hosted at our facility. From a revenue perspective, Parkland County used to receive a Municipal Recreation Tourism Areas Grant (MRTA) from the Province in the amount of $4,000. This grant was reduced to $2,000 in 2013 and eliminated completely in 2014.
Administration conducted a thorough review of our fees and charges compared to those in neighboring municipalities. The municipalities that were reviewed each take a different approach in determining their fees and charges. Some base it on the category of field they are providing (eg. stadium style with lights vs grass field with no fences) while others do so based on category of user (youth vs adult). Overall, it was determined our charges were at or below the average in terms of hourly rate for both soccer fields and baseball diamonds and were about average in terms of tournament bookings when all fees and charges proposed are factored in.
Most of the proposed changes reflect a change in the way in which user groups are charged, moving from a "block" booking to an hourly rate. By doing so, it more clearly identifies what time is and isn't being used allowing us to better maximize use of the facility by making that unused time available for additional bookings. Administration is also proposing new fees for pump outs and camping related to weekend tournament use, which has also had an increasing impact on the cost of running the facility. As part of the review process, Administration hosted a MSP User Group Meeting to share the proposed changes as well as to update on some operational changes beginning in 2014. Overall the majority in attendance were quite comfortable with the changes, understood the rationale behind them and were pleased with level of service they receive at the facility.
It is anticipated that the proposed changes will result in approximately $2,500 in additional revenue for 2014 which will help offset the loss of the MRTA Grant previously mentioned. Going forward, Administration will continue to monitor the recovery rates and may look to increase the fees and charges in subsequent years if required.
Strategic Plan/Policy/Legal/Staff Implications (As Required)
Quality of Life
Goal 1: Parkland County is a diverse and inclusive community that will balance the needs of its people and provide a choice of lifestyles in a harmonious and safe environment.
Financial Impact:
Cost: 0
Source of Funding: N/A