COLUMBUS, OH -- A public hearing on proposed user fee increases for Ohio State Parks for special services such as campgrounds, cottages and boat docks is scheduled for 1:30 p.m. on April 23 at 1939 Fountain Square Court, Building E (first floor Assembly Center) in Columbus.
The fee increases will allow Ohio State Parks to maintain quality services in its award-winning system, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR).
These proposed increases will help ODNR maintain basic services and facilities for our nearly 59 million annual park visitors, said Ohio State Parks Chief Dan West.
Fee increases are proposed for campsite and camping options rentals; cottage rentals; boat dock rentals and overnight tie ups; campground visitor and car passes; as well as boat, trailer and camper storage. If approved, these increases will go into effect immediately.
The cost of maintaining a private boat dock or boathouse on one of Ohio's eight canal feeder lakes will also increase under the proposed hikes, effective in 2004.
Most activities and facilities in Ohio State Parks, including beaches, playgrounds, picnic areas, hiking trails and fishing lakes, remain free to the public.
Written comments may be directed to Chief of Ohio State Parks, 1930 Belcher Drive, Building C-3, Columbus, Ohio 43224. All comments in writing must be received prior to April 23 in order to be entered into the hearing record. Electronic copies of the proposed fee changes are available on the Ohio Legislative Commission's web site at www.registerofohio.state.oh.us/