Belgrade board backs agreement framework for city-sponsored summer sports camp

The Belgrade Regional Parks, Trails and Recreation District board voted to support the city entering into an agreement with For the Future Sports to run a city-sponsored summer sports camp, with final contract language and council approvals to follow.

Jordan Green outlined two partnership models and recommended the board support a public–private model in which the operator runs program delivery while the city supplies facilities and joint marketing. Mac Wills, owner of For the Future Sports, described his Bozeman camps (nine-week programs), an emphasis on long hours for working families, and a staffing model using college athletes and high-school mentors. Wills said camps in Bozeman charge $275 per week and that he could likely offer $250 per week in Belgrade; he also said his organization offers a scholarship program named after his late father.

Under the proposed model, the city would provide use of parks and support (including safety and permitting assistance) while the operator would hire staff, carry insurance and manage programming. Jordan Green said the city would receive 20% of net profits after recouping costs under the described partnership, with the operator retaining the remainder.

Board members asked about cost, scholarships, age groups and logistics; Wills said typical groups are rising kindergarten through rising eighth grade, broken into three subgroups (K–2, 3–5, 6–8), with an 8:1 staff-to-participant target and weekly sign-ups. Directors noted the agreement must go through council and that summer 2026 is the anticipated start date if negotiations and approvals proceed.

Director Emily Decker moved support for the city to enter negotiations with For the Future Sports; Director Jamie Rosemary seconded. The board voted in favor and the item will proceed to contract negotiations and, as needed, council review.