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Councilwoman Dr. Adams
Title
Establishing the Department of Parks, Recreation, Youth Services and Educational Engagement by amending Toledo Municipal Code Section 127.13(b), repealing TMC Section 127.14 and enacting a new TMC Chapter 131 "Department of Parks, Recreation, Youth Services, and Educational Engagement"; authorizing the reappropriation of $3,356,797 from the Department of Public Service, Parks, Recreation and Forestry Division to the Department of Parks, Recreation, Youth Services and Educational Engagement; and appropriating an additional $2,500,000 from the unappropriated balance of the General Fund; and declaring an emergency.
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SUMMARY & BACKGROUND:
Toledo City Council has determined that Parks, Recreation, Youth Services and Education are critical to quality of life and the health, safety and satisfaction of residents of all ages. Evidence proves that high quality parks and recreation systems, supportive youth programming developing pathways to success for city youth, and a successful and thriving educational system are critical for population retention and growth, and are drivers of strong economic development in the city. The city must prioritize these activities and develop a sustainable system of maintenance and support. Additionally, Mayor Kapszukiewicz formed the Recreation Task Force upon entering office in 2018. After months of study, a report was presented to the Mayor and Council that made recommendations as to recreation programming, maintenance of parks and facilities and funding. This legislation creates a system where parks and recreation once again become a priority for the city. Additionally, the elimination of the Youth Commission in 2018 created a void with respect to youth services and programming. This legislation also prioritizes this by creating a division that will be responsible for creating a system of support for developing and enriching the lives of young people. Finally, people need to have compelling rea...
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