SILVERTHORNE – Silverthorne Recreation Center rate increases of 0 to 14 percent go into effect in 2011 if the Silverthorne Town Council approves a rate review next week.

Council members want fees to reflect a thought-out formula that rewards guests for extended commitment. 2011 is the second of three years of rate adjustments to meet that goal – implementing it over time should avoid dramatic increases for recreation center users.

Eventually, an annual commitment will reflect a 30 percent discount off daily rates. A six-month buddy pass would reflect a 25 percent discount, and a six-month individual pass would have a 20 percent discount. A three-month buddy pass is to receive a 15 percent discount.

The largest change for Silverthorne residents from 2010 to 2011 is a 14 percent increase – or $24 – in the six-month youth buddy pass. Most increases are under $10. Changes are less dramatic – up to 6 percent – for Summit County and out-of-town guests.

The new schedule simplifies rates into two categories: out-of-town and Summit County residents now fall into the same category and Silverthorne residents into another. The goal is to make purchasing a pass easier for Summit County residents.

“The worst-case scenario is you have to prove you’re a Silverthorne resident,” said Donna Braun, Silverthorne director of finance and administrative services, referring to the need to show proof of residency for both passes.

The rate review started last week, when town council members approved the first reading of rate changes for water and sewer funds, community development and recreation and culture. The second and final reading is slated for Wednesday’s 6 p.m. town council meeting.

All changes would affect the 2011 financial plan and be effective Jan. 1, 2011, said Donna Braun, Silverthorne director of finance and administrative services.

Other fee changes

Rate changes were also proposed for the Silverthorne Pavilion, such as simplifying formal event pricing. The proposal implements a tiered structure with highepst rates on premium days and months – to maximize rental revenue at peak times while providing affordable rentals during non-peak periods, Braun said. Nonprofit organizations still receive discounts, but must abide by blackout dates that give precedence to full-fee paying guests.

Tap fees for water and sewer would increase by $200 annually if the new rate ordinance goes into effect. Current rates are $6,200 for a water tap and $5,400 for a sewer tap. If passed, sewer rates would increase by 5 percent and the initial sewer fee for newly annexed land would have an automatic increase of $50 per year. In 2011, it would go from $2,000 to $2,050 per equivalent residential unit.

The rate ordinance under consideration is the start of an annual review process requested by council members during the budget process.

To comment on the revised rate ordinance, contact Donna Braun at (970) 262-7303 or at donna.braun@silverthorne.org, or attend Wednesday’s public hearing during the regular 6 p.m. meeting at the Silverthorne Town Hall.

SDN reporter Janice Kurbjun can be contacted at (970) 668-4630 or at jkurbjun@summitdaily.com.