Dear Mr. Sample:
                        The City Manager asked that I respond to your e-mail to City Council members of March 21, 2007. Your message mentioned a concern about the amount of outreach staff provided in regards to the fee increase proposals. City staff took the following steps to help get the word out about the proposed fee increase:
                                * The Council agenda was in the local newspaper
                                * The agenda was posted on the City website
                                * The agenda was posted on the bulletin boards in front of the Council Chambers
                                * Summer fliers (with the proposed fees) were distributed to program participants and placed in the Recreation Center and the Menlo Children's Center
                                * City staff discussed the proposed fee increases and restructuring with several parents

                        Camps compared were all different types of camps, including public camps. In the fee schedule, the public camp was Palo Alto's. The program change, including the hours of operation, was not done to hide increases. It was based on previous years' participation and in response to parent comments. During the past few years' staff noted that many parents arrived early to pick up children and many enrolled their children in extra curricular activities throughout the week. By offering a shorter day with an option for extended care, staff is better able to determine staffing levels and reduce the disruption to programming caused by early pickups and escorting of children to classes. It is hoped that the more structured program in the morning will be more exciting for children and more tailored to their interests. It may also eliminate the "extra fees" parents' pay that is associated with enrollment in special classes. The changes to the program have been well received by parents. As of March 20, 2007, the summer program was 70% filled for both camp sessions and the extended care enrollment was at approximately 50%.
                         
                        I hope this information will provide you with a better understanding of the summer program and the new structure. Thank you for taking the time to inform the City of your concerns.

                        Sincerely,

                        Barbara Santos George

Barbara Santos George
Director of Community Services
City of Menlo Park
701 Laurel Street
Menlo Park, CA 94025-3469
bgeorge@menlopark.org
(650) 330-2207

"Creating Community in Menlo Park through People, Parks and Programs"
Received on Tue Mar 27 16:41:19 2007