Recreation Fees Will Increase

The Jasper County Commissioners had a short meeting Monday evening, approving the intergovernmental agreement with the City of Monticello concerning law enforcement, and voting to raise fees for recreation.

The intergovernmental agreement outlines how the transition of dissolving the police department affects the county (see related story).

On the recreation fees, Administrative Services Director Sharon Robinson noted that the numbers for recreation were up significantly since fees were reduced to $25, and this was one way to help out without creating a hardship on families. Ms. Robinson presented what was in the board’s handout as County Manager Karen Degges was not at the meeting.

The group agreed to raise the fees, per the recommendation of the recreation director, Jay McMichael.

Basketball fees will go from $25 to $35 for residents, and nonresidents will pay $50. The soccer fee will increase the same amount.

For the other sports, the fees will go from $25 to $45, with out of county residents paying $60. Commissioners discussed that the prices were still fair. Commissioner Carl Pennamon said it should have been brought up during budget time, and disagreed with the increase at this time.

In other action, commissioners:

•Approved the draft hazard mitigation plan so it can be sent on to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

•Approved a year’s extension on the cleaning contract with Wildfire Industries, after some discussion on bidding the service out.

•Agreed to advertise for a citizen member to the Regional Development Commission (RDC).