APPLY FOR NEW RECREATION TASK FORCE by 4/16

The Task Force will study and

discuss programming delivered by the City, such as services carried out by the

Recreation Department, the Council on Aging, and the Arts Council, as well as review

programming delivered citywide by traditional private providers such as the

YMCA and by newer organizations offering everything from circus arts to zumba. With

this information as a basis, the Task Force will focus on the recreational

needs of people of all ages and backgrounds.

"Somerville has an extraordinary

richness and variety of activities available to children and adults. But I want

this Task Force to investigate any and all ways that we can ensure we are

thinking creatively and effectively about how to meet resident needs," said

Mayor Curtatone. "The Task Force will ask the questions that will lead us to

the best services: Do residents know about what's available? Where are there

gaps? Are there ways to increase coordination among existing programs? How can

we build on our community's unique strengths?" 

The Task Force will look for

innovative models, but also draw on the storied history of recreation in Somerville.

"Most of us who grew up in Somerville can recall our neighborhood parks as the

center of our universe throughout our childhoods," said Mayor Curtatone. "While

I know that the world has changed and we might not be able to get back to that

exact model, I know that Recreation programming can still greatly enrich the

lives of Somerville residents young and old, that it can strengthen

connections, and that it can help us set and achieve personal goals."

"The next time you leave the

Recreation Building, look up as you walk down the steps," said Recreational

Programming Director George Scarpelli. "You'll see a very old sign that

announces that Somerville Recreation's principal purpose is 'the promotion of

happiness for all the people of Somerville.' While the sign may be old

fashioned, the goal remains at the core of what we still do today. We're

looking forward to the Task Force's idea and recommendations for how to achieve

it in 2014 and beyond."

APPLY BY Wednesday, April 16:

To submit your name to be

considered for appointment to the Task Force, please complete the short form

posted at http://tinyurl.com/SomRecTaskForce

by Wednesday, April 16. The City will work to assemble a group that represents

our diverse community. Task Force meetings will begin in late April and wrap up

by the end of 2014.