Why do some recreation programs have fees while others don’t? How are those fees set, and how do taxpayer dollars fit into the picture?
In our first episode of the Augusta Recreation & Parks Podcast, we take listeners behind the scenes to explain cost recovery, a concept that plays a key role in how public recreation programs are funded, priced, and sustained.
Cost recovery helps us understand the true cost of running programs and how those costs are shared between participant fees and public support. In this episode, we break it all down in a clear, straightforward way, focusing on transparency, fairness, and community impact.
What you’ll learn in this episode:
- What “cost recovery” really means
- Why some programs charge fees and others don’t
- The real costs behind recreation programs that often go unseen
- How taxpayer support helps keep programs accessible
- Why transparency matters in public services
From staffing and facilities to utilities and citywide support services, this episode offers insight into the many layers involved in delivering high-quality recreation opportunities across Augusta.
Whether you’re a resident, parent, participant, or staff member, this episode provides helpful context into how Recreation & Parks works to balance access, affordability, and sustainability.
🎧 Listen now on Spotify:
https://open.spotify.com/episode/4pdLFQN1XRuCwdItouRKlU
🔗 Explore our public cost recovery calculator:
https://www.augustaga.gov/3413/Cost-Calculator
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