TO:

Terry Higashiyama

Community Services Administrator, City of Renton

I was both shocked and disappointed after reading What’s Happening Summer 2009 regarding fees at Renton Community Center. In particular, the increase in price for shower use astounded me. I realize the need for occasionally increasing fees for community services. However, an increase from a $1 each use to a $20 shower pass makes no sense to me.

As a long-term Renton resident, I have on several occasions used this service. I have utilized this facility during power outages (including the week-long outage a couple of years ago), during home upgrades and unexpected plumbing disasters and during local construction requiring shut off of water temporarily. These circumstances, by no means, constituted the purchase of a $20 pass, as all were rather short lived.

As a result of the current economy, many are finding themselves homeless or facing power and water shut-offs. Examples of these indications can be observed by the results of the local One Night Count and with the tent city Nickelsville at Bryn Mawr United Methodist Church, both reported by the Renton Reporter. One might assume the increase to is discourage this group of people from using the facilities.

I am curious as to the City of Renton’s reasoning for this unusual type on fee increase. I don’t foresee it generating, or even offsetting cost, for the City of Renton. I welcome any information you, or any other city representative, can provide regarding this decision. I urge you to reconsider this change. In the past, this affordable benefit has been of great value to those in need.

Elke Peterson, Renton