NB recreation fees to see two per cent general increase

It was noted that not all rates in the schedule will see a two per cent increase. Some item rates will stay the same. Some will see new rates, while others will have an increase of slightly more than two per cent.

Council authorized a general rate increase of two per cent to be implemented effective April 1 for outdoor recreation and July 1 for indoor recreation and cultural facilities, with the noted exceptions of “no change” to a rate or more than a two per cent increase in the schedule where indicated.

The family drop-in rate would increase by $1, which is slightly more than two per cent. This adjustment was needed for the rate to more accurately reflect industry standards in the province.

Some of new incentives in the recreation plan for 2023 include 25 per cent off admission prices weekly special for the Battlefords CO-OP Aquatic Centre and NationsWEST Field House to encourage more people to use the facilities and increase accessibility. The day of the week for this special is still being determined, but it won’t be a weekend.

Coun. Kelli Hawtin asked whether there are any concerns about potential negative effects from the two per cent general rate increase. She wondered if the city was expecting a reduction in the number of people coming to the drop ins or whether the increase might create a financial barrier. However, she noted there are some good plans in the proposal, like the 25 per cent off night or day offered.

DeNeire responded that a two per cent increase is not significant.

“It’s not particularly impactful,” she said. “It’s just in the area where we have to make a rate adjustment on the $1 per hour [increase] that is for the Family rate drop-in only… [We’re trying] to offset that with the 25 per cent off night or day. But other than that, it’s a pretty nominal rate increase. I do not believe it is going to cause much change.”

Hawtin said she thought overall the proposal was “a really good plan.”

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angela.brown@pattisonmedia.com

On Twitter: @battlefordsNOW

by Angela Brown

NB recreation fees to see two per cent general increase

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