Kitimat council has approved a four per cent increase to leisure service fees, giving staff the go-ahead to proceed. During the regular meeting on July 15, council gave the bylaw amendment three readings, with the finalized bylaw adopted July 24.
The fee hike for the 2024-25 period was initially brought to council in June, following a recommendation from the Leisure Services Advisory Commission. The aim is to balance costs while keeping services affordable, aligning with the 2019 Leisure Services Master Plan. The increases will not affect shows, concerts, advertising rates, or park camping fees.
Council previously debated the increase at length, wary of even a one per cent hike. The motion aims to improve cost recovery for leisure services, which is projected to be 13 per cent for 2024. Despite arguments that a higher increase could help address the district’s budget needs, a motion for a five per cent hike was defeated. Council emphasized the need for the district to find internal solutions, expressing concerns about the burden of cost recovery on residents. There has been a significant rise in operational expenses over the past two decades, which council noted will require a more aggressive budget approach.
Kitimat’s director of leisure services, Martin Gould, indicated that a review of the matter is planned for the fall.
The 2024 fee increase is expected to take effect on September 1.
