ITEM TITLE:
Discuss and consider establishing an express public trust authority for youth sports pursuant to Title 60 Okl.St.Ann. § 176. This authority would assist the beneficiary (City of Lawton Parks & Recreation Department) in administering youth sports programs and managing select athletic facilities.
INITIATOR: Mayor Stan Booker and Council Member Randy Warren
STAFF INFORMATION SOURCE: City Manager Michael Cleghorn and City Attorney John Ratliff
BACKGROUND: There is a trend among municipalities in the state to outsource youth sports programs in an effort to improve efficiency and the overall quality of their programs. Generally, these programs provide more opportunities for children to participate in organized athletics. Numerous studies have found that if kids are involved in youth sports they are much less likely to commit crimes, abuse illegal substances and continue their education beyond High School.
EXHIBIT: N/A
KEY ISSUES: Efficiency and better overall program quality.
FUNDING SOURCE: N/A
STAFF RECOMMENDED COUNCIL ACTION: Initiate the process of establishing the trust authority.