The city of Las Cruces is considering a new flat fee for nonprofit groups and residents who want to use city parks for fundraising events.
The city currently assesses a fee equal to 10 percent of what's made during a fundraising event. The Las Cruces Sun-News reports the city is considering a $50 fee for every four hours.
The executive director of the Las Cruces Downtown Partnership, Carrie LaTour, says the current arrangement "stings a little bit like the mafia."
City Parks and Recreation Director Mark Johnston agrees, saying it's been a nightmare for his staff to enforce and administer the percentage fee.
The flat fee proposal is expected to be brought to the City Council for its approval by the end of the year.
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