Rec board adopts code of conduct pending attorney review; discusses waivers and slip‑and‑fall liability

The Eastern Weston County Recreational Board voted to approve a code of conduct for recreational facilities, pending review and approval by the board attorney.

Therese (Rec Board) presented the policy and thanked staff for responding to a safety incident; board members debated whether the code needs stronger enforcement language. Attorney Abby said she would review the draft and the existing waivers and could add language and coordinate with the insurance carrier to limit district liability. Abby recommended wording that notifies patrons the district will clear grounds based on normal priorities and that users assume some risk when using facilities outside maintenance hours.

Members also discussed practical risk‑reduction steps: improving signage on doors, including code language in membership agreements or waivers, and putting the code on web pages and facility doors. One board member suggested limiting waiver sign‑in details (initials rather than full names) for staff who raised personal‑safety concerns; the board agreed in principle to maintain sign‑in while considering privacy accommodations.

The motion to approve the code of conduct pending legal review passed by voice vote. The board asked administration to provide suggested waiver language and to consult the insurer on acceptable wording.

Why it matters: The code clarifies behavioral expectations for facility users and starts a process to manage liability risks for recreational properties where the district allows community use.

What’s next: Attorney will review waivers and code language; staff will propose additional enforcement language if needed and return to the board.