Every year we analyze our pricing to make sure we're offering fair prices, staying competitive with the area's market, helping cover costs and creating equity for tax-paying Town residents and non-residents. All across the country, prices for things such as instructors, materials, uniforms, etc., are increasing. The Parks and Recreation Department has never made a profit from fees, meaning what we charge for memberships, classes, programs, rentals and athletics do not cover the costs of our entire budget.
Most of our budget is supported by Town taxes. So, we have to find the balance in what we charge, knowing that whatever gap is left over after we collect fees is made up by the taxes paid by Town of Clayton residents. While what we spend outweighs what we bring in from fees, Town leaders know investing in Parks and Recreation facilities and programs improves Clayton's quality of life and contributes to property values by creating an attractive, healthy, and active community.
We work hard to maintain great parks, organize year-round athletics, host special events, offer after-school and summer camps, and ensure people of all ages have a wide variety of ways to get active, learn new skills, encourage teamwork, build community and… have fun! If you have any questions about the changes, email us.