Flagler County Commission Considers Parks and Rec Fees

Recreational opportunities for residents, sports teams and special events are part of the fabric of a community and add to the quality of life of the county. But they come at a cost.

Flagler County commissioners recently began discussions to change the fee structure for county parks and recreational facilities to eliminate inconsistencies and recover at least a part of the costs associated with maintaining the facilities.

“What we really wanted to do was to give staff a document they could refer to when they are making decisions when any park or field is being rented,” said Mike Lagasse, assistant director of general services for Flagler County. “We’re trying to come up with a fair fee that would reflect what we presume to be the intention of the policy.”

Lagasse said as the county’s population has grown, use of the facilities has increased necessitating a policy update.

“What we’re trying to do with this policy is bring these things to light (and) consider there are costs not accounted for in the budget process,” he said.

As an example, Lagasse cited the annual cost for field lighting at county facilities, which is more than $50,000. He said the recommended fee structure is designed to recover some costs, but not to make a profit.

Commission Chair Andy Dance asked if the county’s Parks and Recreation Advisory Board has role in reviewing the issues.

“They could be helpful,” Lagasse said. “They could consider many of these things.”

Forrest Hahn, president of Flagler Babe Ruth Baseball, spoke during the public comment period raising concerns about a lack of communication with county officials on the proposed policy changes.

“I don’t mind paying something,” he said. “I am disheartened that nobody reached out. We deserve better.”

Commissioner Greg Hansen also expressed a desire to have more discussion on the issue.

“My only thought is it’s not ready for prime time yet,” he said. “It seems like we need a little more work on this.”

Dance agreed, apologizing to the public for the way the issue came up for discussion.

“I want to make sure we have open dialogue moving forward,” he said. “We need to work this out.”

Commissioners agreed to table the item and consider at the next available County Commission workshop.

“We’re going to have some additional conversations based on what I’m hearing,” Dance said.