The High Price Of Fun: Long Island Recreation Gets A “Raise”

I used to work for a man who use to remind his “younger” employees that “you play, you pay”, and now it seems that that may literally be the case for many Long Islanders seeking some rest, relaxation and fun.

According to reports, some Nassau County Legislators are proposing a more than $2 million increase in new county park fees for 2007

However, the measure was not brought up before lawmakers in a committee in recent hearings because some officials noted they felt it needed more work.

They suggest that there were too many unanswered questions and that there was a need for further investigation with regard to comparisons with other surrounding counties. And, some note that they would like the funds to be part of the county’s 2007 budget.

Yet, they add that if they don’t get the revenue form there, they will have to rely on acquiring it somewhere else.

Some are suggesting an increase from $6 to $8 for a daily resident pass for Nickerson Beach and an increase from $17 to $20 for a non-resident pass. They are also calling for a hike in resident season stickers from $75 to $100; three-year leisure passes for $15 to $25; daily marina docking from $25 to $28 and for raising the shelter fee for a picnic reservation permit from $80 to $95.

And, some new fees will include: swimming lessons, $55 for 10 lessons; $60 and hour for an hour of weight training, $35 an hour for vacation camp, $35 a day and $150 a week; and driving range from 440 balls to 5, 200 balls, $50 and $500 respectively.

Also most golf course greens fees also increased by a bit, but as an incentive to lure more players, others were cut.

And, according to officials many of the increases are a result of inflation, while others were part of a plan advised by a consultant.