Parchimer sports halls: usage fees skyrocket by 50%!
Parchim increases usage costs for sports halls by 50%. Changes affect clubs and children's training. More details here.

Parchimer sports halls: usage fees skyrocket by 50%!
So far there has been little movement in the fees for using public sports facilities in Parchim. That is now changing because city officials have decided to raise fees significantly. From now on, clubs must expect a 50 percent increase in costs, which means a significant cut for many sports groups. In addition, the previous usage time will be shortened from 90 minutes to one hour. These measures were taken to take account of increased operating costs and the city's strained budget situation. The city council hopes to get around 15,000 euros more into its coffers every year, after the fees have remained unchanged for around 20 years.
However, there is good news, especially for non-profit organizations: They still don't have to pay a cent for training and competitions for children and young people up to the age of 18. This ensures that young people will continue to have sufficient opportunities to play sports in the future without being deterred by high costs. The decision could also help more children and young people become active, which ultimately benefits the health of the younger generation.
Cost increases and their causes
The increase in fees for the use of sports halls is not only a local political issue, but also highlights the erosion that many cities are suffering from. The rising costs are due to various factors. These range from increased energy costs to necessary renovations and maintenance work that occur on a regular basis. Similar increases are currently being discussed in many cities in northern Germany as financial leeway is becoming increasingly narrow.
Financing options for clubs
It is now particularly important for the affected clubs to look for alternative sources of financing. Membership fees and donations are often not enough to cover the increased costs. It is therefore recommended to actively look for grants and funding that are now being provided by various institutions. The deutsches-ehrenamt.de offers an overview of possible funding programs that can help clubs realize their projects. It is particularly important that these funds are often tied to the non-profit status of the association.
Increasing the trainer allowance and the volunteer allowance to 3,300 euros and 960 euros respectively, as set out in a new legal regulation, could also be helpful here. These adjustments are intended to recognize and support voluntary work, which is particularly important in the club landscape. The deutsches-stiftungszentrum.de has also pointed out further tax relief that will come into force in the non-profit sector, which could create additional leeway.
The change in the game with the fee increases and the new regulations could also have a long-term impact on the club structure. It is all the more important that those responsible have a good hand in mastering the many challenges that arise from this situation.