The city of Selma’s decision to increase the rental fees for Memorial Stadium, the Sportsplex  and Bloch Park might not be popular among those who frequently use these facilities, but it is a necessary move.

Often, the city lost money when football games, track meets aand baseball tournaments were held in these facilities.

As Selma Mayor George Evans pointed out during Tuesday’s Selma City Council meeting, the charge for using Memorial Stadium was only $250, which only covered the price of runninng the lights for one hour.

In a depressed economy, the increase for Memorial Stadium from $250 to  $375 and Bloch Park from $50 to $75 might ruffle some feathers. But, it is the only way the city can continue to provide these services.

The good news is these increases are the only ones those who use the  facilities will see. All of the money from the gate, concessions and parking will remain with the host team or organization.

When you look at the numbers, the fees are not unreasonable. It was unreasonable for the city to lose money while providing a service in the first place.

When the motion was presented, the Selma City Council did what it had to do by voting in the rate increases.  Selma cannot afford to lose money in any venture, especially when it is providing a service to the public.

There is no doubt there will be some initial grumblings, but, it is important for everyone to keep in mide the changes are for the good of the entire city, not the few. Rather than complain about the rate increases, we should increase our support at each of the facilities. That will make the rate hikes a non-issue.