Many parents flock to the local splash pads for their kids to cool off. These are mostly free amusements, with more and more cities adding them to their parks. Cities tout these as a great low cost way to provide some water fun without the hefty expense of a pool. In fact, parents have gotten so used to this free entertainment that grumbling can be heard about cities like North Ogden whose splash pad is a “pay to play” feature at their aquatic center. So, what is the real cost of the splash pad and who is really paying the price?
The cost of installing splash pads is indeed less than a pool, the initial cost can be $40,000 or more. However, when you add in the cost of chemicals, electricity, maintenance and water, the upkeep is several thousand dollars year. Many might scoff at that number claiming it is a small price to pay for “the benefit of the people,” but who is really paying? Well the answer to that is everyone. Every taxpayer pays a small portion towards city expenses. On its own, it may seem like a paltry amount; however, when you add up all the costs of recreational activities it can cost a pretty penny. For instance, North Ogden Parks alone cost a whopping $177,529, and administration for those parks runs $63,220. Recreation is listed separately on the 2014 fiscal-year budget at $56,000! Even the tiny town of Tremonton has a hefty price tag of $53,975.
So the big question is this: What is the proper use of taxpayer funds? Why should everyone pay the bill for the entertainment of a few? North Ogden is charging “pay to play” fees and making the facility pay for itself. While we all appreciate free services the city offers, when you look at sky-rocketing property taxes, you have to ask: “Is it really worth it?” Or should the government go back to doing its proper role in providing safety and infrastructure and leave parks and recreation to private citizens and facilities to fund and maintain? Is it time for the people to realize that they are being unduly taxed for items they may not want or use? If you agree, write your city council members. Request in that parks and recreation should be funded by private donations or fees.
