Commission backs fee changes including a credit‑card convenience charge and Carlson Center rate adjustments

The Parks and Recreation Commission voted to support a revised user fee schedule that includes a 10% increase to prime‑hour Carlson Center rates, consolidation of indoor and outdoor arena floor fees, removal of a replacement membership card charge and proposals to remove a dump‑station fee for non‑camping RVs and raise firewood bundles at Chena Lakes.

Director Matthew Boyer explained the fee changes as an attempt to recoup rising contract and operating costs and to simplify the schedule (for example, mirroring arena floor rates across facilities). He said the bureau processes roughly $1,000,000 in credit‑card transactions annually and proposed charging a convenience fee to users that would add roughly $20,000 in fees (the fee would be added to a card transaction total rather than hidden in rates).

Why it matters: The fee changes aim to reduce subsidy and cover costs while encouraging weekday use of facilities through variable pricing. Commissioners expressed concern about perception if the fee is added at checkout versus embedded in posted rates; the director explained that cash or check customers would avoid the surcharge.

Debate and action: Commissioners discussed options for embedding the fee in posted prices to avoid complaints; staff said embedding would raise posted rates for all users. Commissioner (speaker 4) moved to support the proposed schedule and David seconded; the motion passed 9–0.

Next steps: The commission’s recommendation will be forwarded to the mayor and assembly as part of the department’s budget and fee packages.