Title
Ordinance - Public Hearing and Consideration of an Ordinance of the City of Mansfield, Texas, Setting Forth the Standards of Care for the Parks and Recreation Department's Kids Zone Program for the City of Mansfield; Providing for the Operational Standards of the Administration for the Program; Providing for the Inspecting, Monitoring, and Enforcement of the Standards of Care; Providing for the Staffing Levels, Training and Responsibilities for Those Working in the Program, Providing for Facility Standards; Providing for the Repeal of all Ordinances in Conflict; Providing for a Cumulative Clause; Providing for a Severability Clause; Providing for Publication as Required by Law; Providing for an Effective Date
Requested Action
Consider Approving Ordinance Adopting the Standards of Care
Recommendation
Approve Ordinance
Description/History
In 1995, during the 74th State Legislation Session, Senate Bill 212 was passed. This bill exempts certain youth programs from child-care licensing requirements including elementary-age (5-13 years) recreation programs operated by a municipality.
The governing body of the municipality must annually adopt “Standards of Care” by ordinance after a public hearing. The ordinance shall include staffing ratios, staff qualifications, facility, health, and safety standards, and mechanisms for monitoring and enforcing the adopted local standards; and further provide that parents be informed that the program is not licensed by the State and the program may not be advertised as a child-care facility.
Justification
The Parks and Recreation Department will be able to offer structured and staff-supervised youth day camp activities during school breaks and holidays. This program will consist of indoor and outdoor activities that will help build self-esteem, develop creativity, encourage teamwork and promote good sportsmanship.
Funding Source
N/A
Prepared By
Brian Coatney, Assistant Director of Parks and Recreation
Brian.Coatney@mansfieldtexas.gov
817-728-3391