Hooper City Council is gearing up for significant changes in park rental fees and procedures, aiming to streamline the process for residents and non-residents alike. During the recent city council meeting on August 7, 2025, council members discussed proposed adjustments to rental rates for various facilities, including the small and large Bowerys and ball fields.

The council is considering a new rental structure that eliminates the need for deposits, opting instead for a straightforward fee system. For the small Bowery, the proposed rental fee is set at $50 for residents and $100 for non-residents. The large Bowery, which includes kitchen access, would cost $100 for residents and $200 for non-residents. Additionally, the rental fees for ball fields are set to increase from $25 to $50 for residents, with non-residents paying $100.

Council members also discussed the possibility of introducing a group fee for seasonal rentals, which could benefit local sports teams such as football, lacrosse, and soccer. The overall rental fee for the entire park is proposed to be $750 for residents and $1,500 for non-residents.

To ensure community awareness and input, the council plans to hold a public hearing on these changes at their next meeting on August 21, 2025. Residents will have the opportunity to review the proposed changes in advance, as council members agreed to distribute updated documents prior to the hearing.

In addition to the rental discussions, the council addressed staffing updates, confirming that no new hires have been made yet, but additional interviews are forthcoming. A request was also made to include a regular budget presentation in future council meetings, enhancing transparency and community engagement.

These proposed changes reflect Hooper City's commitment to improving accessibility and efficiency in its park facilities, while also fostering community involvement in the decision-making process.