Rock Hill Council Approves Higher Recreation Fees for Non-Residents and Honors Fire Chief Blackmon

The Rock Hill City Council convened a special session on Monday, July 7, 2025, to consider several zoning, annexation, and program funding items, with the primary focus on changes to the Parks, Recreation & Tourism (PRT) Department fee structure. The meeting concluded with the retirement recognition of Fire Chief Kenneth Michael Blackmon.

Consent Agenda

Council unanimously approved the following consent items:

• Approval of Minutes: Special session held on June 23, 2025.
• Designation of Abandoned Building Site: Certification of 223/225 East Main Street under the SC Abandoned Buildings Revitalization Act.
• Utility Easement Abandonment: Partial abandonment of rights-of-way on John Ross Parkway.
• Annexation & Zoning Adjustments:
  • Rock Hill Industrial Park Area XII annexed and zoned.
  • Rezoning of 9.27 acres on Linkwood Road from Urban Development to Industry General.
  • Annexation and zoning of McDow Drive/Steed Street Area I.
  • Rezoning of 1.29 acres near McDow Drive from Residential Single Family (RSF-40) to Industry General.

PRT Fee Structure for Non-Residents

Council reviewed and approved a new two-tiered fee schedule for Parks, Recreation & Tourism programs, reinstating separate rates for city and non-city residents. This action responds to York County’s decision to terminate a long-standing intergovernmental agreement that previously equalized recreation fees across municipal boundaries through a millage-supported reimbursement program.

Background

• In 2007, York County agreed to subsidize recreation fees for unincorporated residents, allowing them to pay the same rates as municipal residents.
• In June 2025, the county notified municipalities it would discontinue this reimbursement, offering funding only for unspecified “traditional youth sports” thru a stipend to municipalities.
• This change leaves Rock Hill with a projected $450,000 shortfall.

City’s Response

• The newly adopted fee structure reverts to pre-2007 standards, with non-residents now required to pay higher fees for participation in Rock Hill programs.
• City staff presented a revised schedule that increases costs for most adult programs and several youth offerings for non-city residents. For example:
  • Youth baseball and basketball increased from $65 (city) to $135 (non-city).
  • Adult tennis drills rose from $20 to $120.
  • Tennis family memberships increased from $375 (city) to $1,125 (non-city).
  • Lifelong Learning and Senior Trips programs now include a $75 annual fee for non-residents, up from free access previously.

Council Discussion

• Council members expressed regret over the need to raise fees, emphasizing the city’s commitment to its residents and financial responsibility.
• Several members noted the city was forced into this position due to the county’s timing and lack of transparency.
• Public speakers, particularly from the senior tennis community, urged reconsideration of the steep increases, citing affordability concerns and the value of Rock Hill’s facilities.
• Council acknowledged public feedback and indicated willingness to revisit the fee structure if county support changes.

Final Action

Council voted to approve the new fee schedule as presented by staff. Members reaffirmed that the city must prioritize funding for youth programs and core services without increasing taxes for city residents.

Recognition of Fire Chief Kenneth Michael Blackmon

In a heartfelt closing to the meeting, council and city staff honored retiring Fire Chief Kenneth Michael Blackmon, who began his service in 1977. He was presented with a key to the city and praised for his leadership, professionalism, and decades of commitment to public safety in Rock Hill.