Parks and Recreation Committee
Regular MeetingCharleston, WV · May 4, 2026
Minutes
MINUTES
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMITTEE MEETING
AV ROOM #308
CITY HALL
6:00 P. M., MAY 4, 2026
Caitlin Cook, Chairperson, called the meeting of the Charleston City Council Committee
on Parks and Recreation to order at 6:00p.m., May 4, 2026.
Committee Members Present:
Caitlin Cook, Chair
Bruce King, Vice Chair
Michael Ferrell
Harper Gardner
Pat Jones
Chad Robinson
Patrick Salango
Committee Members Absent:
Other Councilmembers Present:
Frank Annie
Emmett Pepper
Joseph Jenkins
A roll call was taken, and it was determined that a quorum was not present.
1. Approval of previous minutes – 11-17-2023
Councilmember Gardner motioned to approve the previous minutes.
Councilmember Jones seconded. With those present voting unanimously in the
affirmative, the Chair declared the previous minutes approved.
May 4, 2026
2. Bill No. 8076 - A BILL to amend the Code of the City of Charleston, relating to the
fees, rates, and charges for use of City owned parks and recreational facilities.
Councilmember Cook stated that the two items on the agenda work together. Their
purpose is to provide clarity as to the fees and guidelines for the recreational facilities as
there has been an increase in usage.
City Attorney Joe Baldwin stated that the bill will remove the schedule of fees from the
City Code. It would then go through a resolution process, which will allow for easier
public access and to more quickly change with the needs of the facilities.
3. Resolution No. 26-049 – Adopting the initial rental fees for Parks and Rec
pursuant to Bill No.8076. -
Baldwin added that the attached schedule of fees combines all of the existing charges,
rentals, rules and guidelines into one document.
Councilmember King confirmed that Council would have to approve any changes to the
rates.
Councilmember Ferrell stated that there are issues with Little League Football excluding
certain teams and was concerned about monopolizing the fields. Baldwin replied that
the Bill and Resolution ensures that all individuals have access to the fields. Priority is
always given to local youth teams. Councilmember Robinson stated that any City team
should be allowed to practice on the fields and should be playing in the same league, so
if one of the teams aren’t allowed to play in a league then neither team should be
allowed to practice or play in that league. Baldwin added that the documents just deal
with the fields, not the policies of other organizations. Chief of Staff Matt Sutton added
that the free rental would apply to the team renting the field regardless of what
organization or league they belonged to.
Councilmember Robinson referenced the portion of the document that mentions
tournaments. He did not see any exclusion where local little leagues were not allowed to
host tournaments. Baldwin added that travel-based teams are already excluded from
exemption. Councilmember Robinson replied that it is still happening. Councilmember
Cook confirmed with the Parks and Recreation Director Dax Miller that there are no
existing penalties for violating those rules. Chief of Staff Matt Sutton added that in that
case, the rental agreement should be adjusted.
Councilmember Robinson stated that the fees were too low. Councilmembers Ferrell
and King agreed. Nearby comparable fields are charging $50-60/hour for travel-ball
tournaments. Baldwin reminded the Committee that the listed fees are the current fees
that are currently being charged. Baldwin suggested that a penalty for the discussed
violations would be to lose field priority. Councilmember Robinson confirmed that the
fees go into the General Fund.
May 4, 2026
Councilmember Cook recommended that the items would pass, and the fees for travel
ball tournaments could be revisited.
Councilmember Jones asked Miller if he thought the rates were too low. Miller replied
that he preferred to keep everything affordable but agreed they could be more
competitive. Councilmember Robinson added that the majority of tournaments were not
from Charleston residents. Councilmember King said the rate should be a minimum of
$50/hr. Councilmember Cook asked for their proposed alternative price for the $300/day
fee. Councilmember King replied it should be $500/day at least.
Councilmember Robinson motioned to lay over Bill No. 8076. Councilmember Gardner
seconded the motion. With those present voting unanimously in the affirmative, the
Chair declared Bill No. 8076 held over until the next meeting.
Councilmember King motioned to lay over Resolution No. 26-049. Councilmember
Gardner seconded the motion. With those present voting unanimously in the affirmative,
the Chair declared Resolution No. 26-049 held over until the next meeting.
Councilmember King motioned to adjourn. Councilmember Gardner seconded the
motion. Meeting adjourned.
May 4, 2026
Agenda
CITY OF CHARLESTON
West Virginia
Council Member – AT LARGE
Caitlin Cook Parks & Recreation Committee, Chair
1243 Edgewood Drive Facilities, Vice Chair
Charleston, WV 25302 Public Safety Committee
Telephone: 304.543.4879
caitlin.cook@cityofcharleston.org
A meeting of the Council Committee on Parks and Recreation will be held on May 4, 2026. The meeting will
begin promptly at 6:00 PM.
AV ROOM #308, CITY HALL
Charleston, WV
Agenda
APPROVAL OF PREVIOUS MINUTES
1. 11-17-2023
BILLS
1. Bill No. 8076 - A BILL to amend the Code of the City of Charleston, relating to the fees, rates,
and charges for use of City owned parks and recreational facilities.
RESOLUTIONS
1. Resolution No. 26-049 – Adopting the initial rental fees for Parks and Rec pursuant to Bill No.
8076.
DEPARTMENT UPDATES
ADJOURN
CC/ns
*Meetings may be recorded and broadcast via internet https://charlestonwv.civicclerk
City Council | 501 Virginia Street, East | Post Office Box 2749 | Charleston, West Virginia 25330
www.charelstonwv.gov | 304.348.8179 | 304.348.8038 fax
Packet
CITY OF CHARLESTON
West Virginia
Council Member – AT LARGE
Caitlin Cook Parks & Recreation Committee, Chair
1243 Edgewood Drive Facilities, Vice Chair
Charleston, WV 25302 Public Safety Committee
Telephone: 304.543.4879
caitlin.cook@cityofcharleston.org
A meeting of the Council Committee on Parks and Recreation will be held on May 4, 2026. The meeting will
begin promptly at 6:00 PM.
AV ROOM #308, CITY HALL
Charleston, WV
Agenda
APPROVAL OF PREVIOUS MINUTES
1. 11-17-2023
BILLS
1. Bill No. 8076 - A BILL to amend the Code of the City of Charleston, relating to the fees, rates,
and charges for use of City owned parks and recreational facilities.
RESOLUTIONS
1. Resolution No. 26-049 – Adopting the initial rental fees for Parks and Rec pursuant to Bill No.
8076.
DEPARTMENT UPDATES
ADJOURN
CC/ns
*Meetings may be recorded and broadcast via internet https://charlestonwv.civicclerk
City Council | 501 Virginia Street, East | Post Office Box 2749 | Charleston, West Virginia 25330
www.charelstonwv.gov | 304.348.8179 | 304.348.8038 fax
Page | 1 of
MINUTES
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMITTEE MEETING
THE MEETING WAS HELD AND MADE AVAILABLE TO THE PUBLIC OVER ZOOM
AT CITY HALL
5:00 P. M., JUNE 6, 2023
Caitlin Cook, Chairperson, called the meeting of the Charleston City Council Committee
on Parks and Recreation to order at 5:00p.m., June 6, 2023.
Committee Members Present:
Caitlin Cook, Chair
Bruce King, Vice Chair (arrived at 5:13)
Patrick Salango
Frank Annie
Chad Robinson
Committee Members Absent:
Michael Ferrell
Pat Jones
Other Councilmembers Present:
A roll call was taken, and it was determined that a quorum was not present.
June 6, 2023
Page | 2 of
1. Approval of previous minutes – 6-6-2023
2. Bill No. 7991 - A BILL to amend the Municipal Code relating to city agencies and
boards adopting wellbeing and conservation goals for the city.
3. Department Updates -
Councilmember Annie motioned to adjourn. Councilmember Salango seconded the
motion. Meeting adjourned.
June 6, 2023
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Bill No. 8076
Introduced in Council Adopted by Council:
April 6, 2026
Introduced by: Referred to:
Joseph Jenkins and Parks and Recreation and
Caitlin Cook Finance
1 Bill No. 8076 - A BILL to amend Chapter 82, Article IV, Section 82-125 of the Code of
2 the City of Charleston, relating to the fees, rates, and charges for use of City owned parks
3 and recreational facilities.
4
5 Now, therefore, be it Ordained by the Council of the City of Charleston, West
6 Virginia:
7
8 That Chapter 82, Article IV, Section 82-125 of the Code of the City of Charleston, relating
9 to fees, rates, and charges for use of City owned parks and recreational facilities is hereby
10 amended, all to read as follows:
11
12 ARTICLE IV. PUBLIC USE OF PARKS AND RECREATIONAL FACILITIES
13
14 Sec. 82-125. – Schedule of fees.
15
16 Rental and fees schedule for the use of recreation facilities and equipment [is as follows]:
17
18 (1) For use private use, exclusive of the general public, of the North Charleston
19 Community Center, 42 Martin Luther King Jr., Community Center, Kanawha
20 City Community Center, Roosevelt 43 Neighborhood Center:
21 Gymnasium per hour $ 25.00
22 Meeting room, per hour $20.00
23
24 (2) Cato Park Golf Course:
25 Daily nine holes ..... $9.00
26 Additional nine holes ..... $4.00
27 Unlimited play ..... $12.00
28 Daily senior citizens unlimited ..... $6.00
29 Schools, practice or matches ..... $6.00
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30
31 (3) For use exclusive use of tennis courts, The Director of Parks and Recreation,
32 or his
33 designee, is authorized to reserve tennis courts for organized play, and in such
34 cases to impose fees not to exceed the allocable costs of operation and
35 maintenance of the courts as may be determined on a case by case basis. In
36 all other instances, use of the courts shall be made available to the general
37 public on a first come first served basis without the imposition of fees.
38
39 (4) Haddad Riverfront Park:
40
41 Private rental of entire park .....$100.00 per hour* (2 hr. minimum to maximum
42 charge of $800.00 for entire day. Rental time includes set-up and tear-down if
43 renter requires exclusion of general public during this time)
44
45 Damage deposit for private rental .....$250.00 (refundable if no damage occurs.
46 However, deposit is forfeited if rental is canceled less than 20 days prior to
47 rental date)
48
49 (5) Magic Island Park:
50
51 Private rental of entire park .....$100.00 per hour* (2 hr. minimum to maximum
52 charge of $800.00 for entire day. Rental time includes set-up and tear-down if
53 renter requires exclusion of general public during this time)
54
55 Damage deposit for private rental .....$250.00 (refundable if no damage occurs.
56 However, deposit is forfeited if rental is canceled less than 20 days prior to
57 rental date)
58
59 Reservation of volleyball courts .....$10.00 per court.
60
61 *Fee includes normal, daily park maintenance. Should special set-up, clean-
62 up, or other efforts be necessary, the rate will be $20.00 per hour per employee.
63 These fees will be negotiated as part of the reservation process and will be fully
64 disclosed to renters prior to completing rental agreement.
65
66 Such arrangements pertain to all rental of each park, except for the purposes
67 of commercial concert entertainment. In such cases, rental agreements shall
68 be negotiated by the parks and recreation director, with such contract
69 presented for city council’s approval prior to confirmation.
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70
71 (6) Portable Stage: The portable stage measuring 24’ x 20’ may be rented at a rate
72 of $500 per day.
73
74 (a) In addition to the requirements of this Code, the Director of the Parks and
75 Recreation Department is hereby directed to prescribe a schedule of fees, rates,
76 and charges of any kind due to the city for the use of all public grounds under the
77 Department’s authority, including but not limited to all athletic fields, parks,
78 recreation facilities, community centers and accompanying equipment. However,
79 such schedule of fees, rates, or charges, including as may be amended from time
80 to time, shall be first approved by the resolution of city council before being put into
81 effect. A true copy of the schedule of fees, rates and charges, as approved by the
82 city council, shall be maintained on file in the Offices of the City Clerk and the
83 Director of the Parks and Recreation Department and shall be available on the City
84 of Charleston’s website or made available to the public upon request.
85
86 (b) All fees, rates and charges for the use of all public grounds under the Department’s
87 authority established or approved by the city council and in effect immediately prior
88 to the effective date of this Code are continued in full force and effect until such
89 time as new fees, rates and charges are determined, prescribed and approved by
90 resolution of city council pursuant to the provisions of this section.
91
92 (c) For purposes of this section, events produced or originated by the City of
93 Charleston are specifically exempted from payment of rental fees, damage
94 deposits, or other charges listed in this amendment.
95
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Resolution No. 26-049
Introduced in Council: Adopted by Council:
May 4, 2026
Introduced by: Referred to:
Joseph Jenkins and Caitlin Cook Parks and Recreation and
Finance
1 Resolution No. 26-049 - Approving, pursuant to Municipal Code §§ 82-3 and 82-125, Regulations
2 and Schedule of Fees, Rates, and Charges for Use of City Parks and Public Grounds Facilities, as
3 recommended by the Director of the Parks and Recreation Department, and reflected in Exhibit
4 A attached hereto.
5
6 Now, therefore, be it Resolved by the Council of the City of Charleston, West Virginia:
7
8 That, pursuant to Municipal Code §§ 82-3 and 82-125, the Regulations and Schedule of Fees,
9 Rates, and Charges for Use of City Parks and Public Grounds Facilities, as recommended by the
10 Director of the Parks and Recreation Department, and reflected in Exhibit A attached hereto, is
11 approved.
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CITY OF CHARLESTON, WEST VIRGINIA
Parks and Recreation Department
Regulations and Schedule of Fees, Rates, and Charges for
Use of City Parks and Public Grounds Facilities
Submitted to City Council on _______________ __, 2026.
Approved by City Council in Resolution No ____ on _______________ __, 2026.
§ 1. General Scope and Authority.
The Director of the Parks and Recreation Department (hereinafter, the “Director”) is authorized
pursuant to City Code §§ 82-43, 82-45, and 82-125 to establish, equip, maintain and operate
recreational parks, playgrounds and other recreational facilities for public uses; set fees, rates,
and charges for their use; and to collect revenues therefrom. Further, the Director is authorized
pursuant to § 82-3 to promulgate such rules and regulations as he may, from time to time, deem
appropriate to protect and preserve the parks and the right of the public to use the parks. In
accordance with the authority granted by City Council in City Code §§ 82-3 and 82-125 to the
Director, with the approval of the City Manager, and as approved by City Council, the
following rules and regulations (hereinafter referred to as the “Regulations”) and schedule of
fees, rates, and charges (hereinafter referred to as the “Fee Schedule”) for the use of City parks
and public grounds under the Department’s authority contained herein are hereby established,
as amended.
§ 2. Definitions.
(a) “Artificial Turf Field” means a City-owned Athletic Field with synthetic turf surfaces,
subject to additional restrictions to preserve turf quality and safety.
(b) “Athletic Field” means an Athletic Field (or sports field), excluding Playing Courts and
golf courses or frisbee golf courses, under the authority of the Department specifically
marked and prepared for playing sports or games, or for hosting athletic events or activities,
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including, but not limited to, baseball, softball, soccer, football, lacrosse, and other similar
sports or activities played in or upon a field.
(c) “Concessions” means the sale or distribution of food, drinks, or merchandise at a City
facility.
(d) “Educational Group” means any public school (e.g., Kanawha County Schools), private
school, or home school association physically located within the City of Charleston
boundaries.
(e) “Local Recreation Provider” means a nonprofit organization based in the City of
Charleston that:
(1) Is formed for the purpose of recreation and registered as a nonprofit organization
with the West Virginia Secretary of State’s Office;
(2) Has a governing board and bylaws specific to Charleston operations; and
(3) Demonstrates that at least 85% of its participants are City of Charleston residents
(residency may be verified through rosters, utility bills, or photo identification).
Examples include volunteer youth sports leagues and senior leagues. Travel based
teams are excluded from this designation.
(f) “Nonprofit Organization” means an organization established for charitable, educational,
recreational, or community purposes that does not distribute profits to owners or
shareholders. Proof of nonprofit status must be provided with an official document (such
as a tax‑exemption determination letter or incorporation certificate) from the issuing
authority.
(g) “Park Facility” means City Athletic Fields, Playing Courts, gymnasiums, golf courses,
frisbee golf courses, pools, shelters, and all other park facilities or public grounds under
the Department’s authority which are held open for public use.
(h) “Park Facility Use Agreement” means a written or digital agreement or permit issued by
Charleston Parks and Recreation granting a User Group specific rights to use designated
Athletic Fields, Playing Courts, or other park facilities for approved activities. The
agreement outlines dates, times, permitted activities, and any applicable fees or conditions.
(i) “Person” means any individual, corporation, partnership, association, club and any other
group acting as a unit.
(j) “Playing Court” means a designated indoor or outdoor court, excluding Athletic Fields
and golf courses or frisbee golf courses, under the authority of the Department specifically
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marked and prepared for playing sports or games, or hosting athletic events or activities,
including, but not limited to, basketball, pickleball, tennis, or volleyball, and other similar
sports or activities played in or upon a court.
(k) “Resident” means any individual whose primary home address is located within the
official boundaries of the City of Charleston.
(l) “Tournament Coordinator” means the individual person responsible for planning,
scheduling, and managing a tournament event, including submission of schedules,
insurance, payment, and post-event reporting.
(m)“Unauthorized Use” means claiming exclusive use of a Park Facility under the authority
of the Department without an approved Park Facility Use Agreement, or giving, loaning,
or transferring your reserved field time to another person or group.
(n) “User Group” means any person that has entered into a Park Facility Use Agreement or
has otherwise been granted permission for exclusive use Charleston Parks and Recreation
Athletic Fields, Playing Courts, or other park facilities.
(o) “Visitor Impact Report” means a post-event report required from Tournament
Coordinators that documents participation numbers, visitors, and other community impacts
resulting from the event.
§3. Park Facilities reserved for use for events; otherwise, open to the public.
(a) These Regulations and Fee Schedule recognize that the Director is authorized to reserve
Park Facilities exclusive of the public or other User Groups for events and organized play,
and in such cases to impose fees and charges for such uses. In all other instances, except
as otherwise provided herein, the use of Park Facilities which are held open for public use
shall be made available to the general public during regular park or facility hours on a first-
come, first-served basis without the imposition of fees.
(b) Reservations required to reserve facilities.
Reservations are required for exclusive use of any Park Facility to be granted.
(1) Rental Requirements and Guidelines. All rental requests must be submitted through
Department’s RecDesk. During the submission of a rental application, the applicant
must provide the purpose for the use; submit proof of insurance in an amount of not
less than $1,000,000.00 in general liability coverage naming the City as an additional
insured; and sign appropriate agreements required by the Department. Additional
information may be required by the Department depending on the length and purpose
of the rental.
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(A) Organizational Rentals. If the rental application is made by an organization or
league, a list of all participating sports teams or organizations participating in the event
must be provided at the time of submission.
(B) Long-Term or Seasonal Rentals. A full and complete schedule of all scheduled
events, games, and practices must be submitted with any rental request that extends
beyond three (3) consecutive days or includes dates spanning across multiple weeks or
months. If a User Group anticipates the need for additional dates due to playoffs or
championship games, Parks and Recreation must be notified at least two (2) weeks
prior to the potential extension dates.
(C) Additional hours or dates requested by a User Group may be approved by the
Director, subject to additional fees and charges as applicable in the discretion of the
Director.
(2) No holds on facilities prior to actual reservation. Facilities are not “held.” Reservations
are secured only after approval of the application and payment of applicable deposits
and fees.
(3) The Department reserves the right to allocate Park Facilities with consideration of
seasonal demand, wear-and-tear, and the City’s needs.
(4) Park Facility Use Agreements are not transferable or assignable in any way; facilities
use privileges may not be loaned, transferred, or sublet.
(c) Prioritization of User Groups.
Park Facility rentals will generally be approved on a first-come, first-served basis.
However, in the event of a date conflict, priority will be given in the following order:
(1) City of Charleston – City programs, events, and co-sponsored activities.
(2) Local Recreation Providers – Nonprofits with at least 85% Charleston residents. Proof
of residency may be required.
(3) Educational Groups – Schools and home school groups within Charleston.
(4) Other Groups – Businesses, clubs, or individuals not fitting the categories above.
(d) City events exempt.
As stated in City Code § 82-125, events produced or originated by the City of Charleston
are specifically exempted from payment of rental fees, damage deposits, or other charges
listed in this amendment.
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§ 4. Park Facilities rules and regulations.
(a) General Rules. Public use of Park Facilities and all Park Facility Use Agreements shall be
subject to the following rules and restrictions:
(1) User Groups are only granted exclusive use of the specific Park Facility or Facilities
designated in their Park Facility Use Agreement, and may only conduct activities listed
in such Agreement. If requested, outdoor restrooms will be included, and will be
unlocked by the beginning of the reservation.
(2) All events permitted in a Park Facility Use Agreement, including matches, games, and
practices, scheduled during the approved rental dates and times must involve the
person, team, or organization listed on the rental agreement.
(3) Modifications to Park Facilities, including its structures, Athletic Fields, Playing
Courts, or temporary or permanent equipment (for example and without in any way
providing an exclusive listing: painting, moving, removing, or modifying lines;
installing, moving, removing or modifying nets, backstops, fences, or other equipment
or structures; or otherwise modifying, moving, removing, or doing any other thing or
performing any other act which causes damage to City property) by any person are
strictly prohibited without prior written approval.
(4) Damage caused by any person or User Group to any Park Facility, equipment, or other
City property must be repaired at the person’s or User Group's expense.
(5) City staff provide general maintenance and determine Athletic Field or Playing Court
playability and Park Facility operability or usability. The City reserves the right to
close all or any part of any Park Facilities or cancel a Park Facility Use Agreement at
any time due to an emergency, severe weather, vandalism, poor playing conditions,
situations that may result in damage or personal injury, or for any other reason deemed
necessary in the interest and sole discretion of the City. It is the User Group’s and
any Tournament Coordinator’s responsibility to obtain facility closure information.
(6) All persons or User Groups must supply their own equipment unless they specifically
request and receive approval to use equipment provided by the City.
(7) Vehicles must remain in designated parking areas; no driving or parking on Athletic
Fields, Playing Courts, grass, or turf.
(8) Amplified music or loud noise must comply with City noise ordinances, and may be
restricted at staff discretion in the interests of the City and the public.
(9) All animals must be properly restrained at all times while in park areas, using a leash,
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harness, or other safe and secure method. Animals are not permitted on Athletic Fields
or Playing Courts.
(10) The use or possession of smoking materials, alcohol, drugs, tobacco, or vaping
products is strictly prohibited in all City of Charleston Parks and Recreation facilities,
outdoor areas, and within 50 feet of any City-owned facility or recreation area.
(11) A User Group may charge admission fees for an event. If an admission fee is
charged for an event, signage must state that park entry for non-event purposes is free,
as applicable.
(12) Unless otherwise specifically permitted by the City, all events subject to a Park
Facility Use Agreement must occur during regular park hours, and must end by:
• 11:00 pm, Memorial Day through Labor Day; or
• 9:00 pm, Labor Day through Memorial Day.
(13) Reservation of Athletic Fields, Play Courts, gymnasiums, or pools for practice
sessions will be limited to two (2) hour increments to allow fair access for all User
Groups. Additional hours may be approved by the Director of Parks and Recreation
and may incur additional fees.
(14) Concessions. Park Facilities rental does not include concession rights; concessions
may only be granted at the discretion of the Parks and Recreation Department.
(15) All areas must be left clean. All persons and User Groups are responsible for
removing garbage, securing restrooms, and ensuring Park Facilities (including, but not
limited to, Athletic Fields, Playing Courts, dugouts, and surrounding areas) are left tidy.
(16) It is the responsibility of teams and organizations to ensure all participants and
spectators understand and follow the regulations.
(b) Rules specific to Athletic Fields and Playing Courts, generally.
The following rules apply to all Athletic Fields and Playing Courts:
(1) Do not use tape, chalk, or paint to mark lines without written permission.
(2) Hitting, kicking, or throwing balls into or against fencing, backstops, dugouts or other
structures, or in non-designated areas is strictly prohibited..
(3) Leaning, sitting, climbing, or hanging on or from rims, goals, nets, posts, fences or
other such equipment or fixtures is prohibited.
(4) Do not drag nets, benches, or other heavy items across the Athletic Field or Playing
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Court surface.
(5) All users must respect time limits when others are waiting to use the Athletic Fields or
Playing Courts.
(c) Rules Specific to Artificial Turf Athletic Fields.
The following rules apply to any Athletic Field which has artificial turf installed on part or
all of its surface:
(1) No food, drinks (other than water in non-breakable bottles only), gum, seeds, metal
cleats, motorized or non-motorized wheeled items, fireworks, remote-controlled
devices, golfing, stakes, tents, inflatables, or heaters may be used on, in, or immediately
near the artificial turf or other playing surface or dugouts.
(2) Proper footwear must be worn at all times. Any footwear worn on the artificial turf
must have a rubber sole or otherwise be specifically designed for use on artificial turf.
(3) Tents, inflatables, or heaters may be used outside the fenced areas and sufficiently far
enough away from the artificial turf so as to ensure the Athletic Field and the artificial
turf will not in any way be damaged by them.
(d) Rules specific to outdoor Playing Courts, generally.
(1) No food, drinks (other than in non-breakable bottles only), gum, seeds, cleats,
motorized or non-motorized wheeled items (including, but not limited to, skateboards,
bicycles, scooters, or other wheeled devices), golfing, or stakes may be used on or
immediately near the playing surface.
(2) Proper footwear (non-marking athletic shoes) must be worn at all times. Cleats, boots,
or hard-soled shoes are prohibited.
(3) Portable nets may only be used if approved by staff and equipped with protective feet
or padding to prevent surface damage.
(4) Playing Courts designated by the City as tennis and/or pickleball courts are for tennis
and pickleball play only, unless otherwise approved by Charleston Parks and
Recreation.
(e) Rules Specific to golf and frisbee golf courses.
The following rules apply to all golf courses and frisbee golf courses:
(1) Motorized golf carts are not permitted. Manual golf bag carts are permitted.
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(2) Proper footwear must be worn at all times. No cleats or other footwear that could
damage the greens are allowed.
§ 5. Facility fees, rates, and charges.
(a) Except as otherwise specifically provided herein, all fees, rates, and charges provided in
this Fee Schedule indicate rates for exclusive use by a User Group of a Park Facility,
calculated on a on a per-Athletic Field, per-Playing Court, or per-other individual Park
Facility basis.
(b) Hourly and daily rates generally. Except as otherwise specifically provided herein,
hourly rental rates apply for reservations lasting up to four (4) consecutive hours per day.
If additional time is needed beyond four hours, the daily rate will apply.
(c) Fee adjustments and exceptions. Notwithstanding any other provisions herein, the
following adjustments and exceptions apply to the fees, rates, and charges:
(1) Kanawha County Schools and Local Recreation Provider are exempt from all fees and
charges related to the reservation or rental of Athletic Fields, Playing Courts and field
equipment.
(2) Nonprofit Organizations are responsible for 50% of all listed fees and charges for
reserving or renting Athletic Fields.
(3) The City of Charleston Parks and Recreation Department reserves the right to reduce
or waive fees for any reason.
(d) Payments and deposits.
Except as otherwise agreed in writing by the Department in a Park Facility Use Agreement, all
payments of required deposits and rental fees must be made in full by cash, check, certified
check, or money order no later than two (2) weeks prior to the scheduled Athletic Field
reservation date. Payments may be submitted at any of the City of Charleston Recreation
Centers. The refundable deposit for golf course rentals will be returned within ten (10)
business days following the event, after an assessment of the field’s condition has been
completed. All or part of the deposit may be withheld if damages, excessive wear, or additional
cleanup are required as a result of the event. If partial or full payment is permitted otherwise
as permitted herein, the User Group will be invoiced the amounts due. In the event any invoice
is not timely paid as required, the Department may in its discretion refuse to permit the User
Group to reserve and rent Park Facilities in the future.
(e) Cancellations and refunds.
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The City retains the sole authority to determine Athletic Field or Playing Court playability and
Park Facility operability or usability. The City reserves the right to close Park Facilities for
safety, weather, or maintenance reasons, or for any other reason in the interest and discretion
of the City.
(1) If Charleston Parks and Recreation cancels or declares a safety closure or weather-
related closure prior to the start of an event, user groups will either be refunded or not
invoiced – whichever applies.
(2) If Charleston Parks and Recreation cancels or declares a safety closure or weather
related closure after the start of an event, the City will work with the user group to
reschedule the remainder of the event to a mutually agreeable date and time when
possible; if the City and user group are unable to agree on a new date and time for the
event to proceed, then the City may issue a partial or pro-rated refund in the City’s
sole discretion of any rental fees other than those applicable to initial setup and/or
takedown of Athletic Field or Playing Court equipment rental.
(3) User groups may receive a refund of applicable deposits and rental fees only if the
following occurs: the user group must notify Charleston Parks and Recreation
Athletic Field scheduler of the cancellation of the event at least 48 hours prior to the
scheduled rental date and time. User groups that do not timely notify Charleston Parks
and Recreation of the event cancellation as required will not be entitled to a refund
and/or they will be billed for Athletic Field or facility use.
(f) In addition to any other fees, rates, or charges set forth specifically in these Regulations
and Fee Schedule, the rental fees, rates, and charges schedule for the use of Park Facilities
and equipment are as follows:
(1) Athletic Field, Playing Court (excluding gymnasiums), and Golf Course Fees:
Baseball / Softball $20 per hour Lights Included
Diamond (Natural Grass) (maximum 4 hours) (where available)
Baseball / Softball $30 per hour Lights Included
Diamond (Artificial Turf) (maximum 4 hours) (where available)
Baseball / Softball $200 per Athletic Field Lights Included
Diamond (Natural Grass) (Full Day) (where available)
Baseball / Softball $300 per Athletic Field Lights Included
Diamond (Artificial Turf) (Full Day) (where available)
Multipurpose Athletic $30 per hour Lights Included
Field (Artificial Turf) (maximum 4 hours) (where available)
Multipurpose Athletic $300 per Athletic Field Lights Included
Field (Artificial Turf) (Full Day) (where available)
Tennis / Pickleball Court $20 per hour per court Lights Included
(maximum 4 hours) (where available)
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Tennis / Pickleball Court $200 per court Lights Included
(Full Day) (where available)
Basketball Court $20 per hour per court Lights Included
(Outdoor) (maximum 4 hours) (where available)
Basketball Court $200 per court Lights Included
(Outdoor) (Full Day) (where available)
Golf or Frisbee Golf $2,000 Plus $500 Deposit Lights Included
Course (Exclusive Use) (Deposit Refundable) (where available)
Sand Volleyball Court $10.00 per hour per court
(maximum 4 hours)
Sand Volleyball Court $100 per court
(Full Day)
Golf or Frisbee Golf Free No lights available.
Course (Individual
Admission)
(2) Community Centers (excluding swimming pools): For private use, exclusive of the
general public, of the North Charleston Community Center, 42 Martin Luther King Jr.,
Community Center, Kanawha City Community Center, Roosevelt 43 Neighborhood
Center:
Gymnasium $50.00 per hour
Meeting room $20.00 per hour
(3) Cato Park (excluding swimming pools):
Shelter Free
(4) Swimming Pools:
Adult admission Free
Child age __ & above Free
admission
Children age __ or under Free
admission
Pool Rental Special Events Only
(5) Athletic Field, Playing Court, or Gymnasium Equipment Rental:
If an Athletic Field or Playing Court rental requires an initial setup and/or takedown of
any temporary fencing, portable nets, portable baseball mounds, goals, or other field or
court equipment, it will be at the cost of the group or individual renting the Athletic
Field(s), with a fee of $75 per Athletic Field, Playing Court, or Gymnasium.
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(6) Haddad Riverfront Park, City Center Slack Plaza and Magic Island Park:
The fees, rates, and charges for rental of Haddad Riverfront Park, City Center Slack
Plaza, and Magic Island Park are as follows:
(A) The rental fee for private rental of entire park is $100.00 per hour (a 2-hour
minimum is required), up to a maximum charge of $800.00 for an entire day. Rental
time shall include the time necessary for set-up and tear-down if the User Group
requires exclusion of general public during this time. Stage is included in the rental
fee for Haddad Riverfront Park and City Center Slack Plaza.
(B) Damage deposit for private rental in the amount of $250.00 is required. The damage
deposit is fully refundable if no damage occurs. However, the deposit is forfeited if
the rental is canceled by the User Group less than 20 days prior to rental date).
(C) Fees include normal, daily park maintenance. Should special set-up, clean-up, or
other efforts be necessary, the rate will be $20.00 per hour per employee. These
fees will be negotiated as part of the reservation process and will be fully disclosed
to renters prior to completing rental agreement.
(D) Portable Stage. The portable stage measuring 24’ x 20’ may be rented at a rate of
$500 per day. Damage deposit for portable stage rental in the amount of $500.00
is also required. The damage deposit is fully refundable if no damage occurs.
(E) Notwithstanding any other provision in this section, the rates herein pertain to the
rental of each park, except for the purposes of commercial concert entertainment.
In such cases, rental agreements shall be negotiated by the Director, with such
contract presented for City Council’s approval prior to confirmation.
(7) Skate Park of Charleston (106 Pennsylvania Avenue):
Full Skate Park Facility $30 per hour Lights Included
(maximum 4 hours) (where available)
Full Skate Park Facility $300 for Full Day Lights Included
(where available)
(8) All other Parks and Public Grounds:
The Fees for the use of all other parks and public grounds under the Department’s
authority shall be as follows:
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All other Park Facilities not Fees, rates, and charges
listed specifically herein subject to the discretion of
the Director
(9) Charleston Parks and Recreation staffing fees.
In addition to any other fees, rates, and charges contained in these Regulations and Fee
Schedule, the City of Charleston reserves the right to assign Parks and Recreation staff
to rentals requiring additional maintenance or support, such as multi-Athletic Field, all-
day, or multi-day events. Staffing decisions are at the discretion of the Director of Parks
and Recreation. When required, the renter will be charged $20 per hour per staff
member (minimum four hours). Further, the Director may charge additional incidental
fees and charges for the use of park amenities, equipment, supplies, or additional
services as determined by the Director.
§6. Tournament Guidelines
In addition to any other provisions herein, the following rules apply to events which are deemed
to be a tournament by the Director:
(a) Coordinators must submit a written game or match schedule, including any playoffs or
championship games or matches, at least five (5) business days before the event.
(b) Coordinators reserving multiple Athletic Fields or Playing Courts must provide insurance
and will be charged for each separate Athletic Field or Playing Court reserved.
(c) Final payment and a Visitor Impact Report are due within ten (10) business days of invoice.
(d) Tournament field space must be applied for annually; availability is not guaranteed.
§7. Violations. Violation of any federal laws, the laws of the State of West Virginia, City Code,
or of these Regulations and Fee Schedule may result in immediate removal from the facility of any
person or user group, and may result in the denial of future reservations.
§8. The Director may grant exceptions to these Regulations and Fee Schedule when it is deemed
in the best interest of the City.
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