Since the 1980's, the city has maintained policies and procedures to regulate the orderly use, and determine the priority of use for park facilities (shelters), athletic fields, and for hosting tournaments.  While all parks and trails are available for free to the general public, the aforementioned policies and permits are for events and functions that 'exclude' the general public by the reservation of park facilities.

While the park facility and tournament use policies have been regularly updated, it has been several years since last revised; and competition for field spaces and dates have intensified, necessitating clarification of some priority of use, and time-lines for making reservations.

Most of the modifications or updates are minor, or reflect the addition of new facilities since last revisions.  The notable changes are two, the first of which is a modest increase in the fees for fields and shelters.  These were adjusted up to reflect surrounding cities, bringing Ramsey generally into line with neighboring communities.  The current rates are attached to this case. 

The other change is with respect to the Lion's Pavilion, wherein for events held at Central Park, that wish to have concurrent concessions with their tournaments - Anoka Ramsey Youth Athletics is given 'first dibs' on running the concessions for their profit, or for profit sharing with the tournament host.  This has two perceived benefits: it preserves the opportunity for ARAA to derive income from events that are not a part of the 'home' athletic association, and it solves the problem of access and inventory of the food and supplies within the concession stand that ARAA maintains there.


Note:  A similar review and process of updating the facility use policies and fee structure for the Municipal Center has occurred, and will be routed first to the Personal Committee, with subsequent City Council review - as the increasing use of the the various conference rooms at City Hall contributes to the need to add maintenance staff resources.

Staff recommends approval of the Park Facility and Tournament Policies as presented.

Motion to approve the Park Facility and Tournament Policies.