Dilboy funding request response ltr 6.28.17 — File 203889

CITY OF SOMERVILLE, MASSACHUSETTS JOSEPH A. CURTATONE MAYOR CITY HALL ● 93 HIGHLAND AVENUE ● SOMERVILLE, MASSACHUSETTS 02143 [phone removed], EXT. ● TTY: [phone removed]● FAX: (617) 625- 3434● www.somervillema.gov E-MAIL: June 28, 2017 Honorable Members of the Board of Aldermen: In reviewing the Board’s request for an appropriation from the General Fund to the Dilboy Field Enterprise Fund for nonprofit youth football and soccer, it has become clear that this request presents complex legal and financial questions. We are seeking answers to these questions and this will take more time than the seven days we are given under MGL Chapter 44, Section 33 to respond to the Board’s request. The funding recommendation of $0 at this time is therefore a reflection of our need for more time to comprehensively analyze this issue. Taking the necessary time to conduct a comprehensive legal and financial review is critical in building a fair and equitable approach across all Somerville youth sports in adherence with State contract requirements, all applicable laws, and financial considerations. This is our ultimate goal. Once we have completed our analysis, we will be able to best determine any and all feasible options to incorporate additional support for nonprofit youth programs into the extensive roster of City and School recreation, athletic, and youth health programs. We will then report back to this Board with a fully informed proposal for moving forward. I look forward to further collaboration with the Board in advancing youth sports in Somerville. Sincerely, Joseph A. Curtatone Mayor