SKC Camp Master Planning
Overview
Over the past three years, the volunteer Executive Board has been tracking and analyzing the expenses incurred by the Council regarding year-round camp operations.
On November 14, 2019, the SKC Board passed an amended resolution to appoint a committee to immediately investigate revenue generating options for Simon Kenton Council’s camp properties. The findings were presented at the Board Meeting on January 16, 2020.
After thoughtful deliberation, the Simon Kenton Council approved a recommendation proposed by the Camp Property Stewardship Committee.
SKC has decided to defer any efforts to market, sell, lease, or close any Council-owned property (except the portion of Camp Lazarus that was previously approved by the Board). A camp master planning process will continue and an updated presentation will be given at the May 2020 meeting of the Executive Board.
We are excited about moving forward with a master plan for our camps. We want our camps to be a destination for all of our Scouts, reflect positively on our organization, and be places where the Scouting program comes to life.
Process
Current Plan Overview
Simon Kenton Council partnered with national BSA to initiate the camp master planning process, as pictured above. Through a series of brainstorming sessions comprised of volunteers from throughout the Council, (including property committee members from each camp) the Camp Master Planning Committee worked diligently to outline the key components of the future of camping in Simon Kenton Council. The committee was asked to “build” the best camp for SKC’s needs, regardless of location, financial resources and other potential constraints.
As a result of the brainstorming under consultation from National BSA, Simon Kenton Council seeks to build a camp that can meet the requirements of our Scouts and Scouters while being a year-round option for the variety of programs we offer. Below are the criteria by which the committee worked to determine their recommendations.
- Weekly Summer Camp Attendance: 700 (600 campers + 100 staff)
- Variety of Camping Accommodations
- Program Specific Areas
- Year-round Bathroom and Shower Facilities
- Year-round Dining Facilities
- Year-round Training Facilities
Dividing into four main concentrations, Support, Program, Accommodations, and Infrastructure, the subcommittees spent weeks discussing and outlining each area of camp. Below are the results of their brainstorming, as well as minutes and notes from each overall committee meeting. We invite members, participants, parents and youths to review and provide constructive feedback (let’s all agree to reflect dedication to the Scout Oath and Law in our comments.) It’s also important to remember we are not seeking to make a case for any one camp over another, but rather finalize a design for the future of camping in Simon Kenton Council. We welcome your input, which will be shared with committee members as they develop a set of recommendations to present to the Executive Board in May.
More to Come!