School board approves new facility rental fee schedule over nonprofit concerns (10–1)

The Virginia Beach School Board approved proposed changes to the division’s facility rental fee structure after a presentation from Steve Lapac, the division’s risk manager. The motion to adopt the new rates was moved and seconded during the meeting and passed with an announced vote of 10 ayes and 1 nay.

Steve Lapac said the proposal was developed after benchmarking other nearby school divisions and that the proposal aims to remain competitive; he noted the division will keep some categories unchanged after board input (for example leaving one group’s grounds charge unchanged). Lapac also explained the division’s contract with Facilitron, a facilities‑rental platform, which includes a 10% fee on revenue; he presented a March illustration showing roughly $23,000 in revenue under current pricing versus $32,000 under the proposed rates (a sample 38.6% increase before Facilitron fees).

Board members praised the completeness of the comparison but raised concerns about increased costs for smaller nonprofit organizations that regularly use school facilities. Several trustees asked whether there would be a mechanism to negotiate special rates for longstanding community partners and whether any cap or flat block could be used for long‑day events; staff said discounts and negotiated arrangements could be considered for long‑term stakeholders and that the division will monitor usage by monthly reporting.

Lapac said group 2 indoor rates (gymnasium, kitchen) would increase modestly (an example raised in discussion: $12.50/hour to $15/hour for certain spaces), and church users would be billed hourly with a 4‑hour minimum. The board majority concluded the proposed structure and Facilitron contract provide net revenue and administrative benefits; the motion passed and the changes were set to go live July 1.

What happens next: staff will monitor usage and revenue post‑implementation and provide the board with monthly facility‑use reports; trustees requested follow‑up on impacts to nonprofit partners and whether adjustments or negotiated rates are needed.