WODONGA councillors are being urged to approve a monthly lane hire model for the city's pools, despite their Albury counterparts opting last week to have more consultation with swimmers and water polo players.
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When it meets on Monday night, Wodonga Council will be asked to back the set-up which involves lane use charges varying between peak and off-peak months.
The council's manager of sport and recreation, Liona Edwards, in a report to council concludes the monthly model would leave swimming and water polo clubs in a comparable situation to other sporting organisations.
"The proposed licence fees and charges model is based on monthly charges for exclusive lane use while recognising a need for reduced rates for the off-peak months (September, October and April) and ensures aquatics user group operate from a similar position as other sporting groups across the city," Ms Edwards wrote.
She acknowledged Albury Council's move to seek more feedback before settling on the monthly model with pools contractor Aligned Leisure raised risks for her organisation.
"While this resolution was that of Albury City Council, changes to their fees and charges would impact directly on Wodonga Council as the same contractor is engaged by both councils under a joint management arrangement," Ms Edwards wrote.
"There is the risk that different fees and charges regime in one council could result in inequities across the four pools. (WAVES and the leisure centre in Wodonga and Albury and Lavington)
In addition to pushing a monthly structure, Monday night's recommendation calls on Aligned Leisure to talk with user groups before its introduction next summer.
Monday night's consideration of the new fee structure promises to be the most extensive discussion by Wodonga Council about the Aligned Leisure deal since it was approved last April.
Former councillor turned Victorian politician Tim Quilty raised concerns in parliament at not being able to see municipal contracts and told The Border Mail he was referring to the deal with Aligned Leisure.
Ms Edwards reported it would be improper for staff to approve changes to the fees and charges structure.
"Legal advice sought has confirmed that it is appropriate for consideration of the contractor's proposal to be made by the council," she wrote.