2026-74

RESOLUTION

OF THE
COUNCIL

No.2026-74

WHEREAS, Newport Youth Basketball is a fully volunteer-run nonprofit serving about 100 local youngsters; AND

WHEREAS, This travel basketball program was operated by the Newport Recreation Department for many years at the recreation center (The Hut), and when it became too difficult for the department to manage, families stepped in to keep the program operating; AND

WHEREAS, As families took on more responsibility, the program was shifted to a full-fee rental model by city action; this despite the program using the same practice and game windows the department historically used; AND

WHEREAS, Newport Youth Basketball is charged $60 per hour for approximately 12 hours of gym time each week by The City of Newport; AND

WHEREAS, The goal of the program is not to “get through” just this season, but rather, to build a stable, lasting structure so that when young people age out, another committed group of volunteers can step in and continue the program; AND

WHEREAS, Newport’s demographics present unique challenges. A significant number of families cannot afford high-cost youth sports programs, and many of the players in the program require full or partial financial assistance to participate; AND

WHEREAS, In a community where the cost of living is high and resources are often unevenly distributed across neighborhoods, accessible and affordable youth programs are not just beneficial, they are necessary. Reducing fees directly translates into more Newport children being able to participate safely and consistently; AND

WHEREAS, Newport Youth Basketball never turns a child away, but the current gym fees make it increasingly difficult to maintain that commitment, and without support, the program will be forced to shut down after this season; NOW, THEREFORE BE IT

RESOLVED. That the Newport City Council hereby directs the city administration to waive all fees assessed to Newport Youth Basketball for this season, to work with the program’s leadership to accommodate a reasonable fee schedule for future use, and to report back to the Newport City Council with results.

DAVID R. CARLIN III
ELLEN PINNOCK

IN COUNCIL
READ AND PASSED
MAY 13, 2026

LAURA C. SWISTAK, CMC
CITY CLERK