Report Prepared by: Christopher Jensen, Director of Parks and Community Services
Title
SUBJECT: Setting Public Hearing to Adopt Resolution for Parks and Community Services Fee Schedule
REPORT IN BRIEF
Considers setting a date of December 15, 2025 to host a Public Hearing in consideration of a resolution supporting the proposed Parks and Community Services fee schedule including the addition of Bob Hart Square Plaza.
RECOMMENDATION
City Council - Adopt a motion:
A. Providing staff direction on considerations for new fee schedule; and,
B. Setting a date for a Public Hearing to consider a resolution.
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
Need for Updated Fee Schedule
Facility use fees for City-owned event and recreation venues-such as the Nannini Sports Complex, Merced Senior Community Center, and Merced Open Air Theater-were last reviewed and adjusted in 2023. Since that time, the cost of labor, utilities, and contracted maintenance services has significantly increased.
Key contributing factors include:
* Rising staffing costs: Minimum wage adjustments and expanded event coverage requirements have increased personnel expenses by approximately 10% since the last fee adjustment.
* Increased utility costs: Electric and water rates have risen an average of 5-10% per year, driven by escalating costs for lighting, irrigation, and HVAC usage during events.
* Maintenance and repair needs: Wear-and-tear as well as vandalism associated with large-scale athletic venues and community events require more frequent turf maintenance, surface repairs, and staff hours.
Without a corresponding fee a...
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