City Council has approved changes in rates for both the Aquatic Centre and the ice surface at Elgar Petersen Arena.
Rates for both facilities will, for the most part, see about a four to five per cent average increase according to the recommendations, said Coun. Rob Muench.
"It fits in with what other communities are charging," said Muench.
They also decided on small increases in most areas, as opposed to a large jump in price.
"As we discussed with (Darrell Lessmeister, director of Community and Leisure Services), we prefer smaller increases in rates," said Muench.
Some of the increases were much larger than five per cent, however. The Aquacise punch pass jumped from $36 to $135 and the lane swim month pass changed from $36 to $75.
Jennifer Brooks, the director of Communications and Community Development explained that the increases are in line with what other communities are charging.
"The Community and Leisure Services Department researched similar-sized cities and found our prices are still comparable, if not under, in terms of cost," said Brooks. "We want to ensure we're able to continue to provide great programs, while meeting our needs to cover the ongoing costs of operating the facility."
She understands that some people might not be pleased with the rate change but explained that the City's prices are based on their increase in costs to operate the pool.
"While we understand the increase affects some areas more than others, Humboldt is still one of the most affordable places to swim in the province," said Brooks.
But while the new rates for the Aquatic Centre had been changed the week of July 30, late in the week, the City decided to review the cost of the Aquacise and Lane Swimming programs, because of the significant cost increases there. The results of the review are expected to be announced in September. For now, the rates are as they were.
The new ice user rates will most likely be implemented in the new season.
