Agenda - Parks and Recreation Commission - 01/09/2020

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Q8: How much of a concern is program cost? No concern Moderate concern Major concern Fee -setting is another concern for future programming. In 2017, most programs were free or low cost compared to neighboring organizations. This was in hopes of increasing attendance for such new programs. Although 75% of respondents say program cost is a "moderate" or "major concern" this may be due to people not wanting to spend too much money on something when they don't know what they will receive. This aspect of recreation programs should be continued to be evaluated, as fees can be a turning point or barrier for participation. In 2016, annual wages in Ramsey was $47,527, slightly under the average in Anoka County ($49,918). Median household income was $86,800 in Ramsey, compared to $70,900 in Anoka County. In 2015, approximately 3.5% of Ramsey lived below the poverty level (income of $24,250 per year for a family of four), 4.5% between 100% and 149%, and 5.2% between 150% and 184% of the poverty line. Overall, Ramsey residents are in a good financial position, which shows that people are more likely to participate in fee -based recreation programs. The fee -setting pyramid is a tool to determine pricing, which includes the following factors: access, responsibility, anticipated impacts, social value, and benefit. Benefit is the largest consideration, with programs providing the most community benefit having the lowest fees and cost recovery and programs with the most individual benefit having highest fees and cost recovery. Another aspect to consider is establishing a fee -assistance program. Many agencies offer financial assistance to those who qualify, but there is not a uniform policy as communities have varying needs and available resources. Fee assistance is necessary to allow all users who want to participate in a program do so. Eliminating economic barriers is key to growing an involved community, as well as enriching people's lives through parks and recreation. Communities may fund these programs through community foundations, grants, sponsors, or other program revenues.