The Lacey Parks, Culture and Recreation Board on Dec. 3 approved revisions to rental policies for the Lacey Community Center and the Jacob Smith House that raise the weekend damage deposit and update insurance and fee policies.

Justin Beard, parks staff, told commissioners the department proposed increasing the standard weekend damage deposit from $250 to $500 "so folks are more invested in cleaning" after larger events and to align the city with rates at comparable facilities. Beard said the $500 deposit would be refundable if no damage is found and that, if damage exceeded the deposit, renters could be billed for additional costs per the rental contract.

Commissioners discussed when the city should require insurance. Several members said the policy lacked objective criteria for when insurance is mandated. Beard said staff typically request insurance for repeat problem renters or groups that overstay and cause damage — for example, a recurring New Year’s Eve group that had created issues in the past. Commissioners suggested drafting clearer thresholds (such as for very large events or those serving alcohol) and consulting the city attorney on precise language.

Staff also removed outdated language that referenced an in‑house beverage service the department no longer offers, and Beard proposed exempting City of Lacey recreation programs from facility rental fees to encourage programming run by the department.

Chair Erin Wheeler called for a motion to adopt the policy changes. The board moved, seconded and approved the update by voice vote.

The board directed staff to return language clarifying when insurance is required and to finalize the updated rental policy for inclusion in department materials.