COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT
TO: Mayor and City Council
FROM: Dennis Smitherman, Interim Recreation and Parks Director
DATE: June 2, 2026
SUBJECT: Adoption of a Resolution Approving Rental Fees for the Japanese Community Center
Description:
The City Council to consider adopting a Resolution approving proposed rental fees for the Japanese Community Center following a public hearing and recommendation by the Recreation and Parks Commission.
RECOMMENDATION:
Adopt a Resolution approving rental fees for the Japanese Community Center.
BACKGROUND:
On June 3, 2025, the City Council approved a methodology for setting fees for recreation programs and services. As part of that policy direction, the City Council authorized the Recreation and Parks Commission to conduct public hearings on proposed fee changes and to forward recommendations to the City Council for consideration and adoption.
Subsequent amendments to the Santa Maria Municipal Code were adopted by City Council on April 7, 2026, that clarified that the Recreation and Parks Commission serves in an advisory role with respect to recreation fees, and that final approval authority for all new recreation fees and increases to existing fees rests with the City Council.
Consistent with this framework, the Recreation and Parks Commission conducted a duly noticed public hearing to consider rental fees for the Japanese Community Center and has forwarded its recommendation to the City Council for consideration.
DISCUSSION:
The Recreation and Parks Commission held a duly noticed public hearing on December 9, 2025, to review the proposed rental fees for the Japanese Community Center. No public comments were received, and following discussion, the Commission recommended approval of the proposed fee schedule.
The proposed fees have been developed in accordance with the City Council -approved recreation fee methodology and are intended to support cost recovery for facility operations, maintenance, and staffing while maintaining community access. 2 In accordance with the Municipal Code, the Commission’s action is advisory, and the proposed fees will not take effect unless approved by the City Council.
Alternative(s)
1. Adopt the proposed rental fees for the Japanese Community Center as recommended.
2. Modify the proposed fee schedule and adopt revised fees.
3. Decline to adopt the proposed fees and direct staff to return with additional information or revisions.
Fiscal Considerations
Adoption of rental fees (outlined in Attachment B) for the Japanese Community Center is intended to support cost recovery associated with facility operations, maintenance, and staffing. Implementation of the proposed fees is anticipated to generate rental revenue consistent with the City’s approved recreation fee methodology.
If the City Council does not adopt the proposed fees, anticipated rental revenue will not be realized, and alternative funding sources may be required to offset operational costs.
Impact on the Community
The proposed rental fees provide a clear and consistent fee structure for community use of the Japanese Community Center. Establishing defined rental rates supports predictable access to the facility while helping ensure its availability for public programs and events.
Clear and transparent fee information allows community members and organizations to plan activities with confidence and supports the City’s commitment to providing well-managed recreation facilities.
ATTACHMENT(S)
A. Resolution- Setting Fees JCC
B. Exhibit A to Resolution: JCC Fee Schedule