Greeley plan would expand Fun in the Sun and pursue licensed childcare at the Funplex

Daniel Lawrence, Recreation Division Manager, told the Greeley Parks & Recreation Advisory Board on Dec. 5 that the department plans to expand its Fun in the Sun summer program to the Funplex and seek state childcare licensing to operate as a licensed childcare facility.

Lawrence said November sports programs — basketball and swimming — are ongoing while staff prepares the expanded summer offering, which would add program features such as archery, the climbing wall, movie programming at Monfort Concert Hall, and access to the short course. The program would move to weekly sign-ups with a structured pricing model.

Staff said the city budget includes funding for a replacement bus to support expanded transportation needs and noted a youth assistance funding and application process to help families afford programming. On fees, staff said they will "reset" childcare costs to be financially sustainable but will be thoughtful about households that qualify for assistance and that the intent is "to cover the costs, not make money." (Paraphrase of staff report in the meeting minutes.)

The board raised outreach and access questions, including suggestions to add a calendar review to agendas, run an Amilia round-up for youth assistance, and have board members serve as park champions to boost community input and program awareness.

Next steps: staff will pursue the licensing process and return with details on timing, fee structure and registration logistics; the department aims to begin promoting the summer program and registration in mid-February.