LAC LA BICHE – Lac La Biche County could take a closer look at reducing recreation fees by 10 per cent when Council heads into its next round of budget discussions.

The idea was raised during Council’s Aug. 18 meeting as members considered amendments to the County’s Schedule of Fees.

The councillor who brought the issue forward said local organizations, including minor hockey and soccer, face significant costs and asked whether Council could consider providing some relief.

A 10 per cent reduction was discussed as one possibility.

No fee reduction was approved Tuesday.

Instead, administration indicated it could prepare information showing Council what a reduction would mean financially and provide comparisons with recreation rates elsewhere.

County already among lower-cost facilities

Administration told Council Lac La Biche County’s recreation fees are already among the lowest when compared with other Alberta recreation facilities.

“We’re the cheapest in Alberta already, for sure,” administration told Council during the discussion.

Council members, however, questioned whether the County’s financial position could provide an opportunity to further reduce costs for residents and organizations using local facilities.

The discussion included ice rental and the effect facility costs ultimately have on registration fees paid by families with children in sports.

Administration said any reduction would require another amendment to the fee schedule and suggested budget deliberations would be an appropriate time to have the larger discussion.

Council ultimately proceeded with Bylaw 26-016, Schedule of Fees Amendments Bylaw, giving it all three readings.

The possible 10 per cent recreation fee reduction remains just that — a proposal for future consideration — with Council expected to have financial information available if it chooses to revisit the idea during budget discussions.