That picnic in Paradise will cost a bit more now

By David Baker

January 20, 2006 | PARADISE -- The price of picnicking in Paradise went up Wednesday night when the Town Council unanimously agreed to raise the rental fee for the town's two parks and the town hall.

The daily rental fee for those residing within Paradise city limits jumps from $25 to $35, and those living outside of the city limits will now pay $50. Plans were suggested to use the extra money generated by the fee hike to fund improvement to the existing facilities.

"It makes sense for people renting the parks and building to help pay for improvements," said Mayor Lee Atwood.

The council stated that many people from surrounding areas that have ties to Paradise choose to have family gatherings in one of the two city parks or in town hall.

Although the rental fee for nonresidents doubled, council members Margaret Obray and Dale Anderson agreed the price for nonresidents was "more than reasonable." According to Anderson, it is common for a town to charge different rental rates for residents and nonresidents.

Obray, who suggested setting aside the money generated by the fee increase, said the addition of new linoleum and carpet in the town hall, and screens for fireplaces in the parks' pavilions, would be good uses of the extra money.

In other business, the council:
-- closed the meeting to the public for about an hour to discuss legal matters.
-- discussed a property line adjustment and lot resizing in the area of 9200 South. All parties in attendance agreed to meet at a later date to further the process. The council also signed a lot plan, in order to speed up the homebuilding process on a property in the same area.
-- discussed filling the position of soccer coordinator. For more information on the position, call the Paradise town office, 245-6737, before Jan. 27.

NW
HW