Parks and Recreation fee increases proposed for 2026
Oro Valley is considering a wide range of increases to its Parks and Recreation fees for fiscal year 2025–26. These proposed fee hikes are part of a broader package of increases that town staff is recommending for several town services and new taxes as discussed with the town council two weeks ago.
What increases are being proposed?
Under the proposal, membership fees for facilities like the Community and Recreation Center (CRC), Oro Valley Aquatic Center (OVAC), and Archery Range would see increases of $5 to $30 per year, depending on the type of membership. For example, an adult CRC Classic Membership would rise from $40 to $45 per month, while a CRC Premium Family Membership would increase from $100 to $130 per month. Drop-in and family rates are also set to rise. Facility rental fees for fields, parks, ramadas, and lap lanes will also go up. New event rates are being introduced for places like Naranja Park, with hourly rates of $425 and full-day rates of $2,000 for residents and higher rates for non-residents. The proposal also raises rates for pickleball courts, special events, and after-hours rentals.
Why are fee increases being considered now?
Town staff explained that most of these fees have not kept up with inflation or the true cost of maintenance, staffing, and facility upgrades. Many membership and rental rates have remained unchanged since 2013 or even earlier. The increase is intended to support continued investment in Oro Valley’s recreation system, ensuring that facilities remain safe, high-quality, and accessible. By updating the fee schedule, staff hope to keep programs sustainable without relying entirely on tax dollars to subsidize operations.
What does the council think?
During the discussion, council members generally agreed on the importance of keeping the parks system financially healthy, but some raised concerns about the impact of higher costs on families, seniors, and those who use the facilities most often. One council member noted, “We want to keep our parks and recreation programs accessible to all residents, even as we work to cover costs.” Council members asked staff to clearly communicate why the increases are needed and to monitor community feedback as new rates are rolled out.
Public input is encouraged—get involved
The fee increase proposal is still under review and will go through a public engagement process before any changes take effect. Residents and users of Parks and Recreation facilities are encouraged to review the proposed rates and share their thoughts at upcoming meetings. The council is especially interested in hearing how the changes might affect residents’ ability to participate in programs. If you have an opinion or concern, now is the time to get involved and make your voice heard. Here's how.
Oro Valley is considering a wide range of increases to its Parks and Recreation fees for fiscal year 2025–26. These proposed fee hikes are part of a broader package of increases that town staff is recommending for several town services and new taxes as discussed with the town council two weeks ago.
The Parks and Recreation fee proposal covers membership fees, rental rates, and facility charges for residents and non-residents alike. Many of these fees have not been adjusted in over a decade, even as the cost of providing recreational services has gone up. The new rates are designed to better align with actual operating costs and to bring Oro Valley’s fees in line with those of similar communities.
Under the proposal, membership fees for facilities like the Community and Recreation Center (CRC), Oro Valley Aquatic Center (OVAC), and Archery Range would see increases of $5 to $30 per year, depending on the type of membership. For example, an adult CRC Classic Membership would rise from $40 to $45 per month, while a CRC Premium Family Membership would increase from $100 to $130 per month. Drop-in and family rates are also set to rise. Facility rental fees for fields, parks, ramadas, and lap lanes will also go up. New event rates are being introduced for places like Naranja Park, with hourly rates of $425 and full-day rates of $2,000 for residents and higher rates for non-residents. The proposal also raises rates for pickleball courts, special events, and after-hours rentals.
Why are fee increases being considered now?
Town staff explained that most of these fees have not kept up with inflation or the true cost of maintenance, staffing, and facility upgrades. Many membership and rental rates have remained unchanged since 2013 or even earlier. The increase is intended to support continued investment in Oro Valley’s recreation system, ensuring that facilities remain safe, high-quality, and accessible. By updating the fee schedule, staff hope to keep programs sustainable without relying entirely on tax dollars to subsidize operations.
What does the council think?
During the discussion, council members generally agreed on the importance of keeping the parks system financially healthy, but some raised concerns about the impact of higher costs on families, seniors, and those who use the facilities most often. One council member noted, “We want to keep our parks and recreation programs accessible to all residents, even as we work to cover costs.” Council members asked staff to clearly communicate why the increases are needed and to monitor community feedback as new rates are rolled out.
Public input is encouraged—get involved
The fee increase proposal is still under review and will go through a public engagement process before any changes take effect. Residents and users of Parks and Recreation facilities are encouraged to review the proposed rates and share their thoughts at upcoming meetings. The council is especially interested in hearing how the changes might affect residents’ ability to participate in programs. If you have an opinion or concern, now is the time to get involved and make your voice heard. Here's how.
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