The Denver City Council will give initial consideration tonight to a proposed increase in the city’s recreation fees. The modest increases have raised some concern, but they are preferable to cutbacks that would imperil youth services. They also would leave the city’s programs as among the best bargains in the region.
If you’re one of the dog walkers or joggers thronging Cheesman Park or a weight lifter in a city gym, you’re certainly one of the department’s key constituents.
Yet, as important as these activities are, we believe the most vital job of Parks and Recreation is providing healthy and wholesome activities to children and teenagers.
Parks and Recreation Manager Kim Bailey and her staff have carefully tailored this fee package to maintain these important youth activities.
Some critics have assailed a “100 percent increase” for youth swimming pool fees. Yes, the fee will rise from $1 to $2, but the fact that a $1 hike is a 100 percent increase only underscores how low the existing charge is. Adult fees will also go up a buck, from $2 to $3.
Looking beyond the numbers game, we’re impressed by the care Bailey has taken to ensure that those who can’t afford the fee won’t be turned away. Parks and Recreation gave $19,745 in “scholarships” last year in the form of free or reduced fees to ensure that no one is turned away because of inability to pay. That program will continue. The program will also allow annual passes to be paid in four equal payments – $8.75 every three months for a $35 youth pass. In many cases, $8.75 won’t even get you into a movie today, let alone buy any popcorn.
Last year, fees of all kinds covered just 15 percent of the costs of city parks and recreation programs. Even with this increase, fees will cover just 18 percent of the program’s cost. In contrast, in many comparable cities, fees cover anywhere from 30 percent to 50 percent of program costs.
If the fee hike is turned down, the city will probably have to trim two weeks from the pool program, along with other cutbacks.
A modest price increase for those who can afford it is much wiser than leaving kids with nothing constructive to do for weeks during their summer vacations.
