Public Hearing Set On Fees For Public Recreation Centers

State Senator John L. Sampson has called on his constituents to express their views at a public hearing on a proposal by the New York City Department of Parks and Recreation to charge fees to persons over 18 who use recreational centers.

"The people of Brooklyn should be heard before the city tries to implement fees for adults who use these centers," Sampson said.

The hearing will be held at 1 p.m. on Thursday, April 20, 2006 at the Tony Dapolito Recreation Center, 1 Clarkson Street, New York, New York.

"During this time of tight budget, many city agencies may be looking for ways to increase revenue, or make up for funding that was lost. However, when a longtime policy is changed, it is appropriate, that public input is considered," the Senator said, noting that the Department will accept written or oral testimony.

Sampson added there are several issues and questions to consider when preparing testimony. They include:

1. How often will fee increases be made, and by what percentage will they rise?

2. With the increases in the costs of prescription drugs, why should we add another expense to seniors who are on fixed incomes?

3. Since recreation centers serve people of every age and socioeconomic status, what will happen to those who cannot afford to pay the new fees?

4. What provisions will be made for young adults who are full-time students with very low or no incomes?

5. Will low-income parents be forced to send their young children to centers unsupervised rather than enjoying recreation together as a family because they cannot afford the fees?

6. Will all fee money collected be used to support recreation centers? Who collects the money?

7. Will fee money be distributed to recreation centers on an equitable basis or will larger centers receive the lion's share of funds?

"I believe it is of the utmost importance that we have answers to these questions. The Department has proposed taking more money out of the pockets of New Yorkers. They need explain why they feel they are justified in making this proposal," the legislator concluded.