8.1.B PRSR 11-18-2009ITEM: 8. I .B.
ver
MEMORANDUM
TO: Parks and Recreation Commission
FROM: Bill Maertz, Parks and Recreation Commission
DATE: November 12, 2009
SUBJECT: Non Resident Fees
ITEM
At the October Park Commission meeting there was a motion requesting staff to research
what other cities were doing regarding non-resident fees.
BACKGROUND
Staff contacted five parks and recreation departments.
Blaine
• Does not charge non-resident fees
• Programs cover their direct costs
• Admin costs are considered part of the general fund
Woodbury
• Does not charge non-resident fees except for adult leagues
• Residents receive first access to register for programs
Lino Lakes
• Charges non resident fee of five to ten dollars depending on the cost of the program
• Considered a symbolic gesture, not a major source of revenue
Shoreview
• Charges non-resident fees
• Residents covered the cost of the parks and Community Center and therefore should
receive a discount as compared to non residents
Farmington
• Does not charge non-resident fees
• Their computer program system does not screen between residents and non
residents
• It is considered that general funds covers administrative costs, programs need to
cover direct costs so they want as many participants as possible.
Currently, 50% of Elk River's recreation program registrations are done online. Our
software does have the ability to charge anon- resident fee. This would need to be on the
honor system because we would have no way of verifying residency online.
RECOMENDATION
If the Park Commission wishes to recommend anon-resident fee to the City Council, staff
recommends the following.
• $5 non-resident fee for programs that cost under $50.
• $10 non-resident fee for programs that cost over $50.
It is difficult to predict what price-point would result in driving people away and result in
reduced revenue. If these fees are adopted staff would recommend a review of non-resident
registrations be conducted after the first year.
ACTION REQUESTED
Staff is requesting a formal recommendation to the City Council on whether to adopt non-
resident fees.