Residents traveling from out of town to enjoy activities at Rock Hill Parks, Recreation and Tourism will face significant price increases starting soon. During a special meeting on July 7, 2023, the City Council unanimously approved a new fee structure that will see costs for most youth and adult programs double or even triple for non-residents. This decision comes in response to a budget shortfall of approximately $450,000 resulting from the abrupt termination of a funding agreement by the York County Council.
For nearly two decades, the arrangement allowed those living outside Rock Hill to pay the same fees as city residents for recreational programs. This agreement was supported by a small millage tax collected from unincorporated county residents. City Manager David Vehaun expressed frustration, noting, “Everything seems to have worked fine for the last 20 years. We haven’t really had any explanation from the county for why they’ve decided to do away with the program.” The county spokesperson, Greg Suskin, stated the tax was outdated and not effectively distributing funds based on participation.
The Rock Hill City Council and staff identified the only viable option for maintaining recreational programs was to revert to the previous fee structure. Mayor John Gettys emphasized, “This isn’t something new; this is what was in effect.”
Details of the Price Increases
The new pricing structure will impose a $70 increase across the board for youth sports participation for those coming from outside Rock Hill. Adult sports leagues, including volleyball and basketball, will see an increase of $100. The most significant hikes will affect the Rock Hill Tennis Center and senior activity programs, raising costs significantly for non-residents. An individual adult membership at the tennis center will rise to $750, while a family membership will cost $1,125. Senior memberships will also see a tripling in price, with individual fees increasing to $375 and family memberships to $600.
Additionally, children’s tennis memberships and clinics will see a $120 increase. Seniors participating in educational and activity programs will now be charged $75, a significant change from the previous free access.
Community Reaction and Future Considerations
The fee increases drew criticism during the public comment period, with residents expressing concern about the financial impact on those who use the facilities. Robert Weiner, a resident of Fort Mill, voiced his apprehension about the changes, stating, “The damage that it will do to people who do not live here will be enormous.” He noted that over 75% of the tennis center’s users are from outside the city.
In May, public opposition to the ending of the recreation tax was evident, with multiple residents and mayors from nearby communities voicing their concerns during a York County Council hearing. Despite the dissent, the county council approved the ordinance with a 5-2 vote.
While discussions are ongoing regarding potential reimbursements for youth sports fees to alleviate the financial burden, no formal agreements have been finalized. Suskin indicated that the county offered a $100 stipend for each youth participant from unincorporated York County, contingent upon cities not raising rates for out-of-city residents. According to city spokesperson Katie Quinn, Rock Hill has received no definitive communication regarding the terms of this offer.
As local reactions to the changes unfold, some residents are already weighing their options. Tom Duffy, who traveled from Tega Cay to use the tennis courts, expressed concern about the implications of the price hikes for local families. “It’s kind of crazy,” he remarked. “You have to decide: Do you want to be healthy or not healthy?”
In addition to the tennis center, other popular attractions in Rock Hill will also see increased costs. A day pass at the Rock Hill Velodrome will now be $15 for adults and $10 for children, up from $5 for all. Furthermore, fees for various programs, including BMX clinics and events, will also rise by $10.
Many of these price adjustments will take effect immediately, while others will begin when registration opens on July 15, 2023. The implementation of these changes reflects Rock Hill’s efforts to address its budget shortfall while navigating community expectations and financial realities.
