Council tables recreational‑camp rules after lengthy debate over liability and definition

The Somerset Town Council on March 2 tabled a proposed resolution to add recreational‑camp rules to the town’s application process after an extended exchange about liability, state licensing and how the rules could affect informal neighborhood groups.

Town attorney Ron (speaker 11) told the council the draft adds recreational camps to the town property‑use application, requiring camps that use town facilities to obtain appropriate state licensing, carry insurance, indemnify the town and submit an application describing activities and facilities requested. Ron said the state’s youth‑camp statute and licensure regime could apply when recurring programs and groups of children use town facilities.

Councilors and residents asked how the rules would distinguish ordinary babysitting, small clubs or casual gatherings from camp operations. Several council members said they did not want to unintentionally regulate informal, low‑risk activities while ensuring safety where larger, recurring programs use the pool or other town facilities. Matthew Zaff, chair of the pool committee (speaker 15), said past council guidance set minimum supervisory ages and urged more study and a two‑pronged approach that separates institutional camps from informal groups.

Council members expressed concern about demanding large insurance limits and complex licensure for small neighborhood activities. After discussion, a motion to table the resolution passed; the council directed the town attorney and staff to advise camp organizers of applicable state law and to return with clearer definitions and options that would protect children and limit undue burdens on informal neighborhood activities.