Council discusses youth rec programs

At it’s meeting Tuesday the Spokane Valley City Council started looking at the recreational programs the city will offer this summer and in coming years, weighing the possibility of adding cultural activities and programs for youth.

The city’s recreation offerings have been limited to summer children’s programs for the past three years while the city developed a long-term parks plan. With that document written and moving closer to approval, city leaders are considering adding activities in the future.

The plan included a scientific survey of Spokane Valley residents that indicates about 80 percent felt there were not enough programs available for youth, and a similar number responding that students need more after-school programs. Other areas where there appears to be a largely unfilled demand include things like concerts, art and exercise classes.

“There is probably also a need for the city to provide those programs,” Parks Director Mike Jackson told the council Tuesday.

Future possibilities include more instructional classes, developing a teen center, outdoor interpretative programs and physical activities such as dancing that aren’t available elsewhere.

As for sports like baseball and basketball that have been established in the area for a long time, Jackson said, the city could provide information on existing programs that aren’t run by the city.

“Our major role could be in matching them up with other providers,” he said.

In 2006, Jackson said the budget would allow for things like art programs in the park or organized field trips to places like the Mount Spokane ski area.

The council has the final say in what the city will offer, and council members said they plan to discuss recreation possibilities further at their retreat in February.