Henderson phases in recreation fee hikes

Fee increases at Henderson recreation centers will be phased in from now to 2017 under a plan approved Tuesday night by the City Council.

The city originally planned to impose sharp fee hikes this year, but resident opposition led to the plan for more gradual increases.

The council also voted to give staff the power to lower fees if it turns out the increases lead residents to stop using services.

“We need a little bit of flexibility,” Mayor Andy Hafen said.

The mayor and other council members voted to set aside money for “scholarships” for low-income people.

A consultant hired by the city recommended raising dozens of fees, finding that Henderson’s charges are below those of other cities and don’t cover enough of costs.

But at a June 16 meeting, nearly 20 people told the City Council the fees were too much, too soon.

The original proposal was expected to bring the city an extra $2.4 million a year. The city’s revenue under the new plan should increase by $800,000, said Shari Ferguson, assistant director of public works, parks and recreation.

The fee increases are nearly across the board and cover pools, arts classes, music lessons and rentals.

Councilman Sam Bateman said the plan is not just about increasing fees but also includes new membership plans that give residents more options.

Councilman John Marz said fees need to increase so the city can keep providing the good recreation services that help make people want to live in Henderson.

Contact Eric Hartley at ehartley@reviewjournal.com or 702-550-9229. Find him on Twitter: @ethartley