COSTA MESA : Community Service Fees Raised by City

The City Council raised some community service fees this week, and extended a temporary ordinance that places strict controls on adult entertainment businesses that might seek to open in the city.

The council voted unanimously to increase the fees to recover the costs of providing services to residents and others. None of the new fees are higher than the costs to the city, according to city officials. The fees take effect July 1 and are expected to generate $81,000 in revenues.

For example, park reservation fees will increase from a standard $5 to $25 for small groups of residents and go as high as $225 for commercial users from outside the city, according to a report.

The council also voted 3 to 2 for a $3 fee for identification cards for workers who use the Costa Mesa Job Center. The center at 1697 Placentia Ave. provides a place for day laborers to apply for work and meet potential employers.

Council members Mary Hornbuckle and Jay Humphrey opposed the $3 fee. The state ordered the city this year to verify workers’ legal status and authorization to work.

The unanimously approved ordinance to control adult bookstores, topless bars and other adult businesses requires police to run a background check on people seeking to open such businesses. Businesses will also be required to locate at least 500 feet from residences and 1,000 feet from other adult businesses, parks, schools and churches.