El Paso County considers park fee increases to boost budget and tourism
![One of the proposals includes increasing The Pavilion fees from $65 to $100. [Credit: KFOX14]{p}{/p}](png/10d6c20a-e845-4916-b60a-3b9c032374a4-large16x9_thumb_80045.png)
EL PASO, Texas [KFOX14] — Fees may be increasing at El Paso County parks and facilities.
El Paso County Commissioners will receive a presentation on Monday from the Public Works Parks and Recreation Department regarding fee proposals.
The purpose of the fee changes is to strengthen the parks budget and increase tourism while promoting collaboration and engagement according to an online presentation.
One of the proposals includes increasing the rental fee of The Pavilion from $65 to $100 for residents.
It would also require a $300 refundable security deposit.
Maria Vargas said she believes $100 is still an affordable price.
“I’m pretty sure a lot of people would complain about the price going up but if it’s to benefit the park, everyone wants improvements in the park so I’m pretty sure it’s beneficial.”
Vargas added the $300 security deposit would be a bit excessive.
Another proposal also includes golf course fee additions.
Pull carts would be rented at $5 each, and golf club rentals would be $15.
Golfer Jaime Amaya said he would consider changing golf courses if the fees go higher than what they currently are.
“The fees have always been reasonable but they’ve been going up year to year, and I’m at a point where I’m like why would I golf here when I can golf at Painted Dunes, Lonestar other golf courses that are a little more challenging.”
Meanwhile El Pasoan Jesse Romero added he is also in favor of the fees so long the money goes to improving the county’s parks and facilities.
“Anything that goes to the park is fair, I’ve already seen a lot of improvements, it could use a little bit more.”
Romero added he would like to see more attention being given to Ascarate Lake in terms of clearing the algae and stocking fish.
The County Commissioners meeting is scheduled to begin on June 12 at 9 a.m. to watch, click here.
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