We got news that the OFTR will be increasing fees as of April 1st 2024. Adult fees will increase by $40 and Children fees by $15. If you are planning to join for the 2024 riding season you still have one more week before the increase takes effect. Below is the info letter sent by the Federation: Membership Pricing Update Dear Past, and Future OFTR Members, We hope this message finds you well. We appreciate your ongoing support and commitment to the OFTR, and we want to keep you informed about some important changes that will affect our membership pricing. For more than 5 years, the OFTR has been able to avoid membership price increases and provide excellent value to all our riding members. However, ongoing rising costs during this time have finally reached a point where we can no longer provide the ever growing range of Member Services and Mandatory Compliance required by changing regulations. As a result, we now find ourselves in a position where we must adjust our membership pricing to ensure the continued sustainability and effectiveness of the OFTR. The key factors driving this decision over and above 20% inflation during this period include: Increase in Insurance Costs: We have experienced a significant rise in insurance requirements and premiums, in line with other motorized user groups in Ontario. Maintaining adequate insurance coverage is crucial to ensuring we continue to have access to trails and to meet the expectations of landowners. In 2023 we were faced with losing riding areas if we didn’t increase our liability insurance from $5m to $15m at the request of some of our municipal partners. This alone translates to a roughly $10/member cost increase. Governance and compliance: Higher levels of transparency and accountability as expected by members, stakeholders and required under Ontario law result in the need to invest in new tools, processes, and outside paid expertise. Reduction in Grants: The OFTR has historically benefited from a consistent source of income via grants received from other organizations to support various OFTR programs and initiatives. Due to a variety of factors outside of the OFTR’s control, access to these grants, which have essentially supplemented membership fees, are either no longer available or cannot be counted upon. Increased Need for Advocacy: As our sport and our organization continue to grow and evolve, the need for effective advocacy work becomes increasingly critical. This involves engaging with policymakers, raising awareness, and championing the causes that matter to our members. To undertake these initiatives successfully, additional resources are required. As you are aware we are always at risk of losing valuable riding areas and we are still actively seeking a solution to the 150cc and under insurance issue. In light of these challenges, and in close consultation and partnership with OFTR clubs, the OFTR Board of Directors has brought these price recommendations to the OFTR AGM. The motion was approved by members to raise membership fees and so prices will increase as of April 1, 2024. Prices will be going up by $40 per adult and $15 per child. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out to us at info@oftr.ca .
Thanks for this post! Appreciate saving a couple of bucks my first year in. Long-time lurker, brand new member. Chris
