BY IRIS B. HOLTON
Sentinel City Editor

The Hillsborough County Commissioners voted unanimously on Wednesday to approve a proposal to restore 11 of the previously closed after-school programs at Hillsborough County parks.

Last month, in a 4-3 vote, commissioners decided to close the after-school programs at the County parks.

On Wednesday, Commissioner Ken Hagan proposed a plan that would re-open 19 programs in addition to the current 11.

“There was a lot of talk about duplicity of these services. We identified 19 locations that were stand-a-lone facilities and there was no duplication of services.

They are in neighborhoods so that makes it a lot easier for parents to reduce or eliminate the problems of transportation. This program is important to me. I grew up in it, I worked as a coach when I was in college, and now my son is in it,” Commissioner Hagan said.

Commissioner Miller said, “We are restoring some of the programs, but a little differently. They are going to be strictly recreational. We also said the maximum cost will be $38 per child, those students receiving reduced lunch will pay $30, and those receiving free lunch will pay $20. Hopefully, the fees will pay for the program, if not all, then the majority of it.”[private]

On September 8th, the staff will provide the Commissioners with a report on staffing and other specific information on how the programs will operate. They will also contact the parents who received letters stating that there will not be a program for this school year. The letter will let them know the program is now available and the type of program being offered. The new program will begin October 1st. [/private]

***Look for full story in Friday’s Sentinel***