Town Manager Calendar Year Fee Hearing 11-12-2026

The Town of Barnstable’s public hearing on proposed calendar-year 2027 permit and program fees was held November 12, 2026, by Barnstable Government Access and presided over by Assistant Town Manager Andy Clyburn. Departments presented proposed fee changes for golf, the Hyannis Youth and Community Center (HYCC), marinas and moorings, shellfish, Sandy Neck, recreation, and community facilities. The changes were described as responses to operating-cost increases, inflation, and—in the marina program—future debt service; the shellfish fee changes were projected to generate approximately $250,000 in user-fee revenue. Examples include golf pass and greens-fee increases, HYCC skating and facility-rental changes, a proposed flat $15 Blish Point launch fee, shellfish commercial permits increasing from $550 to $650, and recreation-program and Sandy Neck camping fee adjustments. The proposed fees are scheduled to take effect January 1, 2027.

Public comments raised concerns about affordability for families, swimming and skating access, aquaculture inspection fees and farmers’ contributions to environmental goals, and mooring waitlist charges. Staff noted that recreation scholarships and financial aid are available, and that written and additional public comments would be considered during a 30-day period. No fee vote or procurement action—such as a contract award, bid approval, or vendor selection—was identified; this was a public hearing on proposed fees.