program will assist low-income families
Starting Monday, low-income Hatters can apply to pay a reduced admission price at city recreation, cultural and some seniors’ programs, a Friday release stated.
The “Fair Entry” policy was first announced in late 2016, ahead of general fee increases this year as the city moves to better recover costs at pools, recreation facilities and other services that require taxpayer funding.
At the same time, councillors supported a reduced-rate option being developed by administrators to keep facilities accessible to those with lower incomes.
The program’s details were released Friday saying city residents that can prove they are in lower-income brackets can receive half off admission up to a maximum of about $100 per year.
“This program ensures that all Medicine Hat residents have reasonable access to a range of Public Services,” says Howard Snodgrass, general manager of the city’s community development department.
“It is designed to reduce financial barriers that lowincome families and individuals face.”
Hatters who qualify by submitting certain financial documents to administrators, could pay less at recreation facilities and children’s day camps at the Esplanade, its galleries, as well as enjoying a reduction on Meals on Wheels deliveries.
The low-income cutoff is considered to be $21,354, for a single person, $26,583 for a couple, or $39,680 for a family of four.
Household income takes into account all members residing at the same household.
Applicants can present a Canada Revenue Agency assessment notice, or similar information from the provincial disability program, a letter from social worker or principal in the case of an emancipated youth.
Applicants must also provide proof of residency in Medicine Hat with a driver’s licence, provincial ID card or utility bill.
That discount is capped at a maximum or $100 per person per year, while the maximum is $20 off admission to the Esplanade art galleries.
Educational day camps run by Esplanade staff are subject to the higher $100 maximum.
Recreation discounts will apply to entry admission to the Family Leisure Centre, Crestwood Recreation Centre and city-run outdoor pools.
Full details as well as forms are available on the city’s website or at facilities in question — the Family Leisure Centre, Crestwood Pool, the Strathcona Centre and the Esplanade.
General rate hikes throughout the public services division should bring in an additional $345,000 in revenue this year, say finance officials, then $368,000 in 2018.
Those funds go toward better covering city expenses at facilities — moving to a user-pay model and better cost recovery is a key plank in the ongoing budget review process.