Public Hearing on Proposed 2009 Dane County Parks Fees

October 06, 2008
Darren Marsh, Parks Director 246-3896
Land & Water Resources

The Dane County Parks Commission will hold a Public Hearing on the proposed 2009 Parks Fees at their regular meeting on Wednesday, October 8, 2008, 5:00 P.M. at Lussier Family Heritage Center, 1301 Lake Farm Rd, Madison, WI 53711. The Dane County Park Commission has the responsibility to set the fee structure for service provided in the County Parks. “I believe the County Parks Division has been very diligent in trying to hold down costs and still maintaining excellent services, especially during this tough economic time,” stated Park Commission Chair Bill Lunney. The Parks Division is not proposing any fee increases for 2009 for shelter rentals, camping, lake access sites, cross county skiing, mountain biking, equestrian trails, disc golf, aeromodeling and other park services. There will be a requested increase for rental space at the Lussier Family Heritage Center. “Dane County Parks charges service fees in the form of user permits to help offset the operation and maintenance costs associated with various park activities,” said Darren Marsh, Parks Director. These fees allow the Parks to provide services for specific types of activities where the user helps offset the cost. According to Marsh, the key during these tough economic times is to continue to maintain the support of current patrons while attracting new outdoor recreation users. If the user base can be increased, the revenues generated will help offset costs and reduce the need for future increases. “Parks is going to work hard to promote the County recreational opportunities. Outdoor enthusiasts really don’t have to travel very far to find some of the best facilities anywhere in the Midwest,” said Marsh. Reserving a shelter or a campsite is only a click away using the new on-line Park Reservation website at www.reservedane.com. Starting November 3, 2008, patrons will also be able to purchase park permits on-line for all park activities. “These are all new opportunities the County has developed to serve our customers better,” said Marsh. For more information on fees and other park information, please contact Dane County Parks at (608) 246-3896 or visit our website at http://www.countyofdane.com/lwrd/parks/