Report Prepared by: Christopher Jensen, Director of Parks and Community Services
Title
SUBJECT: Public Hearing to Consider Parks and Community Services Updated Fee Schedule
REPORT IN BRIEF
Hold a public hearing to consider the proposed Parks and Community Services fee schedule.
RECOMMENDATION
City Council - Adopt a motion approving Resolution 2023-46, a Resolution of the City Council of the City of Merced, California, approving Parks and Community Services programs and service fees.
Body
ALTERNATIVES
1. Approve, as recommended by staff; or,
2. Approve, subject to conditions other than recommended by staff; or,
3. Deny; or,
4. Refer to the City Manager for reconsideration of specific items (specific items to be addressed in the motion); or,
5. Continue to a future meeting (date and time to be specified in the motion).
AUTHORITY
Charter of the City of Merced, Section 200.
DISCUSSION
Staff is requesting Council adopt a resolution approving Parks and Community Services Fee Schedule Modification. The Parks and Community Services fees were last updated on June 2, 2008. Since then, California minimum wage has increased from $8.00 per hour in 2008 to $15.50 per hour in 2023. The result is an hourly rate for part-time staff that has nearly doubled since the last department fee increase.
Raising minimum wages coupled with increasing cost to provide public recreation services makes it necessary for the Parks and Community Services Department to increase several fees for programs and services to reduce the reliance on the City's General Fund. While the department does its best to recruit volunteers for special events, youth sports and other services, staff are required for nearly all programs and activities to ensure standards of practice, safety, and quality of service. Full-time staff oversee regular and after-hour activities, but at least two part-time staff are needed at various function to assist with our growing number of participants and attendees.
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