The Recreation Board for the City of Andalusia has approved a rate increase for sports participation, and established clear guidelines for its youth sports scholarship program.

Effective Jan 1, 2027, registration fees for youth sports will increase from $35 to $45 per person, Leisure Services Director Rick Thorne said.

“The City hasn’t increased rates in more than a decade,” Thorne said. “Rising costs for equipment and officials necessitate this update,” Thorne said.

“Even with the adjustment, our feels will remain below those of most recreation departments in our district.”

The existing $15 multi‑child discount will remain in place, he said. For adult league programs, the team fee will increase from $150 to $250.

The practice field lighting rental fee also will increase, from $25 to $50, Thorne said.

“This will better  reflect actual usage and maintenance costs,” he said.

The Leisure Services Department will continue to provide need-based scholarships, Thorne said, adding that new scholarship guidelines have been set for those.

To be eligible, an applicant must live in Covington County; must have passed all classes in the prior semester; and a parent, guardian or another adult in the household must complete at least five hours of volunteer service with Parks and Recreation programs or events per season. Household income will be considered and evaluated  relative to the county’s median household income.

To apply, a parent or guardian must:

• Complete the form available at the Andalusia Department of Leisure Services office or online;

• Submit required documentation for income and academic verification; and

• Commit to the volunteer service requirement before the end of the sports season.

Applications will be reviewed by the Parks and Recreation Scholarship Committee.