Paul Wilson, council general manager for community services, told the community services committee, at a meeting yesterday, that a new structure for both long-term lease of council land and short-term facility hire would bring more consistency to the council's charges.
"The aim is to clear up years of inconsistency," Mr Wilson said.
For lease of sports fields, the new approach introduces a tiered charge under which, for example, bowling or golf clubs are charged a base rate, plus subsequent rates relating to the size of the facilities.
For facility hire, the council is proposing a system that gives fixed discounts to certain groups or types of activities. Youth sports would get a 100% discount, effectively free use of facilities, whereas charitable events would get discounts of between 50% and 75% depending on the activity or event.
During discussion at the meeting, the councillors expressed an intention to encourage sport and art activities for the young.
"It is about finding a balance between the ability to fund the premises and what is good for the public," Cr John S. Wilson said.
Structuring the discounts on facility hire will involve subsidising the local charities and sports clubs. Mr Wilson said Lakes Leisure had estimated that initiative would cost $92,000-$129,000 in lost revenue, which would have to be recovered through the general rates.
Mr Wilson has met sports clubs and community groups to discuss the issue. The committee decided to extend the public consultation period until February 28, 2010.
