If your boot camp, or soccer camp wants to hold a leisure class in a Glendora city parks, you'll have to seek a permit and/or pay a fee from now on.
The City Council voted Oct. 22 to amend an ordinance to prohibit leisure classes/programs from operating in open areas of Glendora parks without a permit and/or paying a fee the way other private parties must.
A recent rise in such instances led to the necessity for change, said La Shawn Butler, recreations director.
The amendment to Glendora Municipal Code, Section 9.20.010, was also seen as necessary by officials who said citizens were misled that such unsanctioned classes/programs were led by instructors who are fingerprinted and have cleared background checks.
The ordinance change will allow staff to work with these businesses to coordiate the time, place and manner in which they conduct their activities, Butler said.
Officials reportedly received phone calls from residents requesting a refund from such classes/programs, only to discover the class in question was not offered through the city. In some cases, these classes/programs incorporated the city's name, leading some to believe the class/program was city-sponsored.
A requirement for a permit, which would run anywhere from $25 to $150 depending on the business, would lessen the city's liability as well, officials said.
Businesses would have to contact the Community Services department to fill out proper paperwork to apply, Butler said.
As far as enforcement goes, officials would be able to enforce the ordinance through citizens alerting staff, or when staff observes a potentially unsanctioned business operating, Butler said.
What do you think? Is this a good decision, or will this present fewer options for activities?
