Effective April 1, 2020, Moose Jaw's Parks and Recreation facility users will see a small rise in some usage rates.

On Tuesday, City Council voted in favour of modestly increasing some fees by an average of seven percent next year. 

The smallest increase, a no-show sport court fee, is one per cent from $77.38 to 78.38. 

At 24 percent, the largest of all fee increases are those for Toddler Turf Time drop-in and punch card rates. The current drop-in price is $6.25. That will be raised to $7.75. A 10-time punch card fee will be raised from $50 to $62. 

In a report submitted to City Council by the Parks and Recreation Department, cited are rising operating costs, due in part to increases in utility bills and other economic factors. 

The Parks and Recreation Department reviews rec fees on an annual basis.

The report states that the department is focussed primarily on increasing revenues through increased attendance while ensuring that any changes do not come at an unsustainable cost to city taxpayers.

"We continues to focus on affordability and maximizing attendance," said Derek Blais, director of parks and recreation. 

The report also states that "vulnerable populations are a priority, and the Department wants to ensure our facilities and programs are more accessible to youth, young families and seniors in Moose Jaw." 

The changes will take effect April 1, 2020. A complete list of fee changes can be found on Tuesday night's council agenda package by clicking here.