R2023-121 Resolution Authorizing the City Manager to Negotiate Terms and Execute an Agreement between the City of Decatur and Old King's Orchard Community Center for an Urban Ag Project and Community Services

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Wrighton, Scott W. April 24, 2023 Page 4 of 5 minutes by car with light traffic (4.1 miles)and one hour and seventeen minutes by foot(3.8 miles). Outside of the Firestone football complex, which is not currently being maintained, the Park District offers no football fields. Most local schools have sports facilities, but they often are not open to the public. There is a pressing need for outdoor recreation in Decatur's urban core. Developing the OKO property to include a safe and usable sports field will enhance outdoor access and athletic opportunities for both the participants served by OKO as well as the community at large. As outlined below, OKO plans to work with the Decatur Public School District to create accessible, co-ed programming for elementary aged students. In addition, OKO Sport will partner with other youth sports organizations, such as the Decatur Park District,the Decatur Gators and the YMCA to create an ongoing funding source for its facilities. The initial cost to build the OKO Sport complex is$115,000. OKO is seeking funds from the City to develop the property and fulfill the vision depicted in the City's prior renderings. It is proposed that the construction project be managed by OKO. Prevailing wage will be paid for all work on the facilities.None of the money paid by the City will go towards operations. And thanks to the creation of OKO Green, the facilities will be managed and maintained by OKO. Working with its partners, OKO Sport will provide reduced and/or cost-free programming to Decatur youth. The goal for 2024 is to begin two initial youth programs: (i)a 3rd—6th grade coed flag football league and(ii)a 3rd—6th grade coed youth soccer league. This programming will work closely with the Decatur Public School District as a vehicle to help participating youth succeed in school and life. Upon registering for either program,the student's parent or guardian will agree to meet with their child's coach to discuss his or her academic performance and any areas of concern. The parent/guardian will further agree to provide their coach access to the student's current attendance and academic records. The coach, acting as a pseudo instructor/mentor, will monitor the student's academic progress and provide encouragement and academic assistance when needed to ensure that the player remains eligible throughout the season. Towards that end,the same eligibility requirements that a student will be held to in junior high and high school will apply to participation in OKO Sport. All programming costs will be covered by existing grants, donations from local philanthropists and revenue generated from renting the field to outside organizations. The property will be maintained by OKO Green. All that is needed is the initial capital contribution from the City to construct the complex. This sports field will be a symbol of pride for the OKO community and all Decatur residents. The programming to be implemented by OKO Sport will change lives by engaging our young people before destructive behavior and relationships develop.