City Council member advocates waiving $5 fee for back to school event

The Tamarac City Council meeting on July 9, 2025, included a significant discussion regarding fees associated with community events, particularly a back-to-school event. A council member raised concerns about the $5 fee for children to participate, arguing that it could be a burden for families facing financial difficulties.

The council member suggested that the Parks and Recreation Director provide an explanation for the fee and proposed that the city manager be directed to waive it. Emphasizing the importance of accessibility, the council member pointed out that similar events, such as the Turkey Trot, do not charge participants. They expressed the belief that charging even a nominal fee for the back-to-school event is inappropriate, especially given the current challenges many families face, including food insecurity.

The discussion highlighted the council's commitment to ensuring that community events remain accessible to all residents, particularly children. The council's decision on this matter will be crucial in determining how the city supports its families during challenging times. Further actions or resolutions regarding the fee will be addressed in upcoming meetings.