County staff pitch Adopt‑a‑Park volunteer program; commissioners encourage formal motion after review

County public works staff presented an Adopt‑a‑Park program proposal at the April 7 meeting that would formalize volunteer stewardship of Camden County parks through one‑year agreements and a small program handbook.

Presenter Jared described the program as a partnership between the county and civic groups, scouts, faith organizations, HOAs and local businesses. Basic program elements included a minimum one‑year commitment, at least four cleanups per year, post‑event reporting within 10 days, approved activity lists (litter removal, weeding, minor beautification) and recognition via signage. Staff said signage would be the most expensive upfront cost and estimated less than $400 for eight signs in an earlier slide (adjusted upward to account for additional parks). Larger volunteer groups would be required to show insurance; groups with youth would be limited to six children supervised by an adult.

Commissioners welcomed the proposal and noted that some parks already have informal volunteer groups; they asked staff to coordinate with existing groups and to return with a formal agreement and liability waiver so the board can consider a motion at a future meeting. The board did not adopt the program on April 7 but directed staff to refine program documents and bring a formal item back for approval.