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HomeMy WebLinkAbout02-10-2009 NRRC 09 Scholarship ProgramCity of Hastings Parks & Recreation th 920 W 10 St, Hastings MN 55033 Ph: (651) 480-6175 Fax: (651) 437-5396 Web: www.ci.hastings.mn.us “Creating Community Through People, Parks, and Programs” Date: 2/5/09 To: NRRC Members From: Barry Bernstein, Parks and Recreation Director Subject: Scholarships As part of the original pool redevelopment project in 1999, the City received a grant from Minnesota Department of Children and Family Learning in the amount of $500,000. One of the requirements to receive this grant was to establish a policy with Hastings Family Service that would allow access to the facility regardless of income. Up until 2006, the City of Hastings did not require any qualifications of an applicant for a scholarship. In 2006, as per direction from staff and City Council authorization, the Parks and Recreation Department developed a more formal application process and criteria for persons to be eligible to receive a scholarship to the HFAC. Since 2006, the scholarship program included access to the HFAC, Civic Arena programs as well as other departmental leisure program offerings. The criteria the City incorporated in the scholarship program are the same criteria as the Hastings School District free or reduced lunch program. In 2008, the Parks and Recreation Staff did do random checks on approximately 30 applicants for compliance checks. Out of these compliance checks, only 3 people did not verify income and therefore did not receive any scholarship funding. In 2008, the Parks and Recreation Department received 75 applications for scholarships at the HFAC alone. The scholarships went towards season passes and punch cards, as well as classes such as swimming lessons. I will add that very few scholarships were redeemed for swimming lessons. This figure is up from 57 applications in 2007. The City does not have any dedicated funding for the scholarship program. 2008 scholarship figures are as follows: Scholarships awarded in 2008 $10,944 Scholarships redeemed in 2008 $7,505 Scholarships not redeemed $3,439 For the 2009 HFAC season, the Parks and Recreation Department would like to recommend the following changes to the current scholarship program. Civic ArenaAquatic CenterYouth First th 2801 Red Wing Blvd. 901 Maple Street 920 W 10 Street Ph: (651) 480-6195 Ph: (651) 480-2392 Ph: (651) 480-6182 Fax: (651) 437-4940 Fax: (651) 437-5396 Fax: (651) 437-5396 Option #1 It would be anticipated to utilize the same criteria for the scholarship program, but as one option to offer scholarships at the HFAC for only swimming lessons. This will ensure that children would still have access to the HFAC and be taught a life saving skill. Option #2 Once again to utilize the same criteria for eligibility, but the scholarship would cover a percentage of the season pass or punch card. The applicant would cover the remaining portion of the cost. In this option, swimming lessons would still be eligible for a full reduction of cost. Option #3 Continue the program in its current state. In this option, allow City staff to pursue outside contributions for funding of the scholarship program. The outside funding could apply to any option. Option #4 Each family, no matter the size, will be issued 2 punch cards that would qualify the recipient or household to receive a combined 20 free pool admissions. The family would still be eligible to receive Swimming lessons at a reduced/free rate. I am seeking a recommendation from the NRRC as to the direction we should pursue. I will also be discussing this issue with the Parks and Recreation Committee of Council at our th February 17 meeting. Thank you!