HomeMy WebLinkAbout2005-06-28 - AGENDA REPORTS - YOUTH MASTER PLAN (2)CONSENT CALENDAR
DATE:
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Agenda Item:
CITY OF SANTA CLARITA
AGENDA REPORT
City Manager Approval:
Item to be presented by:
June 28, 2005
Adele Macpherson
Parks, Recreation & Community Services
RECOMMENDED ACTION
City Council review, comment, and adopt the Youth Master Plan.
BACKGROUND
The Visions in Progress (VIP) Youth Advisory Committee was founded in 2002 to actively
advise the City and community on the activities, issues, and decisions relating to the teens of the
community, to provide a safe and enjoyable environment for youth.
In 2003, VIP Youth Advisory Committee members expressed their concerns regarding the
following issues facing Santa Clarita teens (i.e., lack of activities, drug abuse, reckless driving,
etc.). The group reviewed the 1996 Youth Strategic Plan and the 1999 Youth Needs Assessment
Study. All of the recommendations in the previous plans had been implemented by the City and
other community-based organizations. It was determined that it was time to revisit the issues and
develop current recommendations, so that our community could appropriately plan and be
prepared for the changing needs of the youth.
A Steering Committee comprised of educators, teens, City staff, a Parks, Recreation, and
Community Services Commissioner, and nonprofit organization representatives was created to
guide the project. The following four questions were created to assess community needs:
1. What do you think are the most important concerns facing teens (12-18 years old) in the
Santa Clarita Valley today?
2. What additional services (facilities, programs, activities, etc.) would you like the
community to offer?
3a. Do you foresee different challenges for teens (12-18 years old) in the next five years than
what we face today? If so, what are they?
3b. How should the community plan for them?
APPROVED
Since community engagement is the key factor in assessing the needs of Santa Clarita, the Youth
Master Plan process included a Mayor's Conference on February 12, 2004, to launch the project,
followed by 20 community -wide focus groups. Additional feedback was received via website.
The answers collected at these gatherings were entered into a database, analyzed, and then
separated into themes and sub -themes. Ten themes were identified for both "Youth Needs" and
"Youth Issues." The Youth Master Plan Steering Committee and VIP reviewed the data and
crafted a list of recommendations that are intended for businesses and community organizations
in Santa Clarita to assist in addressing the needs of the youth. These needs include:
• Human Services.
• Entertainment and Facilities.
• Recreation Opportunities.
• Public Safety.
• Schools.
• Infrastructure/Population Control.
• Jobs.
• Spanish -Speaking Resources.
• Marketing.
• Transportation.
The recommendations to address these needs can be found on pages 14-17 of the Youth Master
Plan.
On June 2, 2005, the Parks, Recreation, and Community Services Commission reviewed,
commented, and forwarded the Youth Master Plan to City Council for adoption. Upon review
and adoption by the City Council, the Youth Master Plan will be distributed to all youth -serving
agencies in Santa Clarita, and will also be available online and by request.
ALTERNATIVE ACTIONS
Decline adoption of Youth Master Plan.
Other action as determined by City Council.
FISCAL IMPACT
None.
ATTACHMENTS
Youth Master Plan
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
Acknowledgements ............................................. i
A Message from the Mayor ...................................... iii
The Process ................................................... 1
Research Method .............................................. 2
YouthIssues .................................................. 3
YouthNeeds .................................................. 7
Current Status on Youth Needs ................................... 10
The Recommendations .......................................... 14
References.................................................... 18
Exhibits...................................................... 19
I. Focus Group Questions ............................... 19
II. Focus Group Profile ................................. 20
III. Facilitator Responsibilities ............................. 21
IV. Note -Taker Responsibilities ............................ 22
V. Facilitator's Script .................................... 23
(Focus Group Questions & Triggers)
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
City of Santa Clarita City Council
Cameron Smyth, Mayor
Laurene Weste, Mayor Pro -Tem
Frank Ferry, Councilmember
Bob Kellar, Councilmenber
Marsha McLean, Councilmember
City Staff
Ken Pulskamp, City Manager
Ken Striplin, Assistant City Manager
Rick Gould, Director of Parks, Recreation, and Community Services
Adele Macpherson, Community Services Superintendent
Shannon Omessi, Community Services Administrator
Ingrid Hardy, Community Services Supervisor
Veronica Navarro, Community Services Coordinator
Visions in Progress, Youth Advisory Committee
Bryan Downing
David Knutson
Dulce Gutierrez
Elise Rollins
Heidi Henson
Jessica Ruiz
Kaitlyn Shipley
Megan Buehler
Sarah Simpson
Tyler Johnstone
Youth Master Plan Steering Committee Members
Shannon Omessi, Community Services Administrator, City of Santa Clarita
Joan Lucid, Saugus Union School District
Ingrid Hardy, Community Services Supervisor, City of Santa Clarita
Tyler Johnstone, Liaison, Visions in Progress Youth Advisory Committee
Mike von Buelaw, William S. Hart Union High School District
Adele Macpherson, Community Services Superintendent, City of Santa Clarita
Edward Redd, Commissioner, Parks, Recreation, and Community Services, City of Santa Clarita
Jessica Ruiz, Chair, Visions in Progress Youth Advisory Committee
Megan Buehler, Visions in Progress Youth Advisory Committee
Liz Seipel, Director, Child and Family Center
Wade Trimmer, Executive Director, SCV Youth Project
Jim Ventress, Director, Boys and Girls Club
Beverly Knuston, Assistant Superintendent of Personnel, Newhall School District
Chris Lim, Executive Director, Renewed Families
Focus Group Participants
A -TEAM
Betty Ferguson Foundation
Castaic Middle School
Community Based English Tutoring Program
Center for Adolescence and Family Health
City of Santa Clarita Community Center
La Mesa Junior High School
Mayor's Conference
Redview Prep
Renewed Families
Rio Norte Junior High School
Rosedell Elementary School
Santa Clarita Valley YMCA
Saugus High School
SCV Youth Project
Sierra Vista Junior High School
Sierra Vista Boys & Girls Club
Sky Blue Mesa Elementary School
Valencia High School
Visions in Progress Youth Advisory Committee
Special Thanks
We would like to extend a special thanks to City staff and service providers for their
contributions in writing this report and assisting with facilitation of focus groups, note taking,
and the other numerous tasks that were needed to present this final report.
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A Message from the Mayor
Cameron Smyth Dear Community Member:
Mayor
The City of Santa Clarita acknowledges the significance of planning for the
Laurene Weste needs of our youth today, and in the future, in order to continuously make Santa
Mayor Pro Tem Clarita one of the best and safest places to live. The City has always been
committed to, and an advocate of, providing youth activities in a safe and
Frank Ferry enjoyable environment, which is one of the reasons why 10% of the General
Councilmember Fund is allocated to Public Safety, and 14% of the City's General Fund is
allocated to our Parks, Recreation, and Community Services Department. A few
Bob Kellar examples of the City's current youth programs and activities include:
Councilmember
• Visions in Progress, a youth advisory committee that advises City Council,
Commissioners, and staff on issues and concerns from a teen perspective.
Marsha McLean Youth in Government.
Councilmember 0 Contract classes.
• The Sports Complex, which has a Skate Park, state-of-the-art Aquatic
Center, Activities Center, and a Gymnasium.
• The new Community Center in Newhall is scheduled to open in fall 2005.
In addition to these City -funded youth activities, the City strongly supports the
efforts of numerous community youth serving agencies. The 1999 Youth Needs
Assessment Study and the 1996 Youth Strategic Plan outlined specific
recommendations to improve the quality of lives for Santa Clarita Valley youth.
Such recommendations included:
• Updating the Resource Directory.
• Expansion of the ACTION substance abuse program.
• Evening activities.
• Concentration/collaboration of youth services.
• Parent support.
• Youth intervention programs.
• Job programs and volunteer opportunities.
• Diversity and tolerance education.
• Teen Nightclub.
• Give youth a voice through media and public involvement.
• Job training.
All of the aforementioned recommendations were implemented by the City and
other community-based organizations. The City of Santa Clarita values our
youth, and we recognize that this community's infrastructure must be consistent
with the change in the valley's growth, demographics, and overall needs. This is
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why the City Council and I have supported the Youth Master Plan process, so
that our community can appropriately pian and be prepared for the changing
needs of our valley's youth.
This report will highlight the history of the process, research methods, youth
issues and youth needs, the current status on youth needs, and the
recommendations. The Youth Master Plan Steering Committee and the Visions
in Progress Youth Advisory Committee has collaborated to produce this final
document.
Respectfully yours,
Mayor Cameron Smyth
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THE PROCESS
The Visions in Progress (VIP) Youth Advisory Committee had expressed their concerns to City
staff about various issues facing Santa Clarita teens, such as lack of activities, drug abuse, sexual
activity, and reckless driving to name a few. They felt that it was dire for the City to address
these concerns and pian for them. City staff suggested a Youth Master Plan (YMP) to assess the
community's perspective on the current status of our youth and how can we plan for varying
trends and issues.
The Steering Committee consisted of educators, teens, City staff, Commissioners, and non-profit
organization representatives. The following four core questions were created to assess the
community's needs:
1. What do you think are the most important concerns facing teens (12-18 years old) in the
Santa Clarita Valley today?
2. What additional services (facilities, programs, activities, etc.) would you like the
community to offer?
3a. Do you foresee different challenges for teens (12-18 years old) in the next five years than
what we face today? If so, what are they?
3b. How should the community plan for them?
Given that community engagement is the key factor in assessing the needs of Santa Clarita, the
YMP process was launched with a Mayor's Conference at the Hyatt Valencia, on
February 12, 2004. In attendance were youth, parents, school Administrators, law enforcement,
businesses, and service providers. Over the next four months, 20 focus groups were conducted,
in addition to feedback received from the City's website.
The answers were entered into a database, the data was analyzed, separated into themes, and
sub -themes. The 10 most popular themes to questions I and 3a are reported as youth issues, and
the most popular answers to questions 2 and 3b are reported as youth needs.
The YMP Steering Committee reviewed the data and collaborated with VIP on the
recommendations. It is the hope of the Steering Committee, VIP, City Council, Parks,
Recreation, and Community Services Commissioners, and City staff that this information is
informative and useful for everyone involved in the lives of youth.
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RESEARCH METHOD
Qualitative research (i.e., focus groups) was the method selected for this Youth Master Plan
process. Qualitative research involves the collection, analysis, and use of qualitative data to
understand and explain social and cultural phenomena (Meyers, 2004).
Because qualitative data involves mass amounts of varying information, the data presented in
this report is not necessarily reflected numerically in many cases, but the data does, just as
importantly, demonstrate what the community's attitudes and thoughts are on youth issues and
youth needs. The mass amount of data collected was analyzed and divided into themes and
sub -themes and is reported as youth issues and youth needs. The theme highlights the broader
trends, while the sub -theme is more specific.
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YOUTH ISSUES
Youth issues are defined as the concerns facing our youth, according to the feedback
received from the community in questions 1 and 3a. Though many responses were
recorded, only the top 10 are being reported.
1. Public Safety
2. Mental Health
3. Entertainment and Facilities
4. Schools
5. Substance Use and Abuse
6. Human Relations
7. Sex
8. Parenting
9. Growth/Development
10. Economy
Public Safety
Though Santa Clarita is one of the safest cities in
the country, public safety will always be a
concern, because of the valley's rapid growth and
demographic changes. The top concerns that the
community has for youth today and in their future
are reckless driving, gangs, violence, and curfew.
Reckless Driving
Since 1991, Santa Clanta has lost over 57 youth
to reckless driving. The community has been proactive in its efforts to minimize the number of
tragedies that have occurred as a result of reckless driving. These efforts include SafeRides,
Sheriffs Teen Traffic Offender Program, Blue Ribbon Youth Memorial, the White Ribbon
Campaign, and the Citizen's Traffic Safety Committee.
Gangs
There are currently 6 active gangs and 2 tagging crews in Santa Clarita. Four of the gangs reside
in Canyon Country, with active members in all four, totaling less than 60. Newhall gang's active
members total less than 40.
Currently, they are all trying to recruit new members and/or connect with other gangs to increase
their numbers and power. Gangs in Santa Clarita are not highly organized, and do not have
particularly good leadership. However, graffiti or "tagging" has increased significantly during
2004, and 2005 has shown no decrease. Though tagging is not the equivalent of gang activity, it
is a precursor to violence and a way to communicate challenges to other gangs.
Violence
Violence was the third -ranking sub -theme under Public Safety, with 52% of the teens stating that
violence is an issue, and 47% of adults expressing their concerns of violence as well.
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Curfew
From the youth perspective in the 12 -18 -year old age bracket, youth preferred that a later curfew
be enforced. Adults over the age of 25 years old thought that the enforcement of the curfew
needed to be strengthened.
VIP met with the SCV Sheriffs Department to discuss the Curfew Ordinance and discovered
that they, along with their peers, had misinterpreted the curfew law. VIP would like to
collaborate with the Sheriffs Department to educate their peers and the community on how the
Curfew Ordinance works.
Emotional Well-Being/Mental Health
Peer pressure was the number one emotional well-being/mental health issue, with 41% of the
respondents seeing it as a concern for youth. Following suit are stress (18%), depression (8.50/6),
self -injury (7%), and suicide (7%). As in any community, teens are under a tremendous amount
of stress stemming from a variety of issues, including, but not limited to, pressure to succeed in
school in order to get into a college of their choice, need to fit in and do what other teens are
doing, struggle to attain an identity that is unique to oneself and acceptable to others, and
sexuality. The pressures they face increase as they transition from junior high to high school, and
there is an earlier onset of at -risk behavior. What used to be regular behavior during pubescent
years is not occurring for children during their pre -pubescent years.
Self -injury and suicidal symptoms can stem from genetic and/or biological sources, some from
family relationships, or from the environment and recent events. Prevention, early intervention,
and mental health services provide effective treatment by helping to identify issues and avoiding
long-lasting problems. Counseling, medication, psychological assessment, case management,
and crisis services are also modalities that help youth to deal with painful mental health issues.
Entertainment and Facilities
One of the most common laments from youth is
that there is nothing for teens to do. One can
usually find teens hanging out at the movie
theater or the mall on the weekend, as there are
limited choices in activities and places to hang
out. Teens with their own transportation travel
outside of the valley to places like Hollywood,
Universal Citywalk, and other popular venues to
hang out with friends and have a good time.
Over 75% of the respondents in this theme believe that the community should have a variety of
and more positive activities for youth, including building the appropriate venues and facilities to
conduct the activities.
Schools
Academic pressure ranked as the number one sub -theme of schools. Respondents of all ages
stated this as a concern, however, more significantly, 67% of that representation was in the
12 -18 -year old age bracket in question 1, and 42% in question 3a. Answers include: students
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feeling extremely pressured to succeed, meet high expectations, and be the top competitor in
their class.
Other concerns expressed within this theme were updating the curriculum, dress code, funding,
after school programming, detention, overcrowding, facilities, and improving student -teacher
relationships.
Substance Use and Abuse
Generally, respondents were concerned about the use of drugs, alcohol, cigarettes, and caffeine,
amongst teens in the Santa Clarita Valley. Youth today are exposed to critical choices at
younger, more vulnerable ages. As safe a City as Santa Clarita is, families and children are not
immune to society's problems of substance use and abuse. Harder drugs are now much easier to
come by.
It is not uncommon for some agencies to see clientele using methamphetamine, cocaine, or
crack. These cheaper, more addictive drugs are prevalent in Latino communities, where they are
being sold by gangs and other minors. In addition to the increasing number of teens who are
using illegal drugs and drinking alcohol, the abuse of prescription and over-the-counter drugs is
also becoming prevalent among Santa Clarita youth. Over-the-counter cold and allergy medicine
is highly abused, especially by young females. Peer pressure is a big factor in youth's use and
abuse of drugs and alcohol, as well as easy access to money, lots of free time, and little or no
positive activities.
Community-based organizations that deal with these issues are seeing an increase in the number
of youth who are using drugs and other harmful substances. This could be attributed to families
and youth who are starting to reach out and seek help.
Human Relations
Santa Clarita has become more diverse, and there is great concern about the state of human
relations and tolerance for differences. Currently, 32% of respondents within this theme
expressed their concern about racism, while 28% perceived discrimination as an issue, and 21%
expressed concerns about bullying. Additionally, 70% of respondents in this theme foresee
racism as being a great concern in our youth's future.
Sex
The influence to be sexually active is intense today, and the community foresees this as being a
greater pressure in the future. There was also mention of more youth being homosexual, as some
had stated that it was "trendy to be gay." Lastly, the community foresees that more youth will
contract sexually transmitted diseases.
Teens of both sexes are regularly pressured to engage in sexual activities. Oral sex is common
on junior high campuses and sexual intercourse frequently takes place on high school campuses.
Away from school, teens are taking part in parties and are experimenting sexually more than in
previous years. Teens do not find an open environment in which they feel safe to discuss their
sexual activities or simply ask questions related to sex.
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Parenting
With the number of two-parent working homes
and parents spending an hour or more each way
to work, parenting is likely to be a concern. The
specific issues voiced by the community include
lack of parental involvement, parental
supervision, parental support, and parenting
skills. Parents heavily rely on the schools to
supervise and protect their kids from harm, such
as drugs, alcohol, cigarettes, peer pressure, and
sexual activity, to name a few. The schools on
the other hand are pressured to get students to pass standardized tests and meet other educational
requirements, and therefore, are limited on how much they can influence a youth's behavioral
choices.
Growth/Development
The City's Big Picture Strategic Plan states that growth is the most pressing bigger picture issue
in the community. Too much growth can impact neighborhoods, parks, schools, activities,
services, and quality of life. Growth and development was a concern for youth today. The
community expressed growth and development (referenced as Population/Infrastructure Control
under Youth Needs) as a great concern for our youth's future, specifically, overcrowding/
population growth (31%), overcrowding in schools (24%), and the need for more open space or
less building (16%).
Economy
The cost of living is becoming less affordable for many people, thereby, increasing the gap
between the haves and the have nots. The prices of homes for the Santa Clarita Valley are at an
all-time high; additionally, the prices of gas are soaring and Santa Clarita's community may
struggle more to sustain. The community is concerned, primarily youth ages 12-18 years old,
with the current state of the economy; less affordable homes, scarce jobs, and the basic high cost
of living.
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YOUTH NEEDS
Youth needs are defined as the needs and services (recorded from questions 2 and 3b) that
youth require to address various issues. Though many responses were recorded, only the
top 10 are being reported.
1.
Human Services
6.
In&astructure/Population Control
2.
Entertainment and Facilities
7.
Jobs
3.
Recreational Opportunities
8.
Spanish -Speaking Resources
4.
Public Safety
9.
Marketing
5.
Schools
10.
Transportation
Human Services
Human Services ranked as the number one youth need in both questions 2 (27%), and 3b (36%).
A wealth of ideas was suggested by the community to address the imminent needs of our youth.
Ideas include: parent education, counseling, arts education, volunteerism, and a mentoring
program. In planning for the future needs of our youth, the community suggested parent
education, affordable programs, "free clinic," mentoring program and ongoing strategic planning
community groups.
The community considers parent education as key in improving the lives of our youth, such as
educating parents on how to talk to their teens, open parent forums so that parents can share their
experiences with other parents, and classes that teach parents how to help their children plan for
the future.
A representative group suggested that the City should be more proactive in creating and offering
affordable programs for youth. Some would also like to see more formal mentoring
opportunities and programs, because youth who have positive role models in their lives are
inspired to make better life decisions.
As for arts education, the community suggested talent shows, theater arts programs, a cultural
center, and more affordable arts programs.
Entertainment and Facilities
With the limited number of after-school and weekend
activities for teens, this category ranked second on
question 2, and fifth on question 3a. The top
suggestions were more activities (25%) and a teen
dance club/more dances (18%). Other popular
suggestions include a teen center, teen concerts and
battle of the bands, and carnivals.
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Recreational Opportunities
Participating in recreational opportunities
provides teens with great benefits, such as
physical, social, and emotional wellness. The
community would like to see more recreational
opportunities be provided, such as more
swimming pools, longer pool hours, and water
parks. Other suggestions for recreational
opportunities and facilities include: another
skateboard park, more community sports
centers, and places for kids to work out.
Public Safety
With regard to public safety, 21% of respondents in question 2, and 33% of respondents in
question 3b believe that increased enforcement is needed. They would like to see more law
enforcement officers in schools, more officers on the street, and programs that help address law
enforcement issues, such as a student anti -gang task force, self-defense program, and a safe
house for abused teens.
Schools
School issues ranked fifth on question 2, and third on question 3b. Suggestions from question 2
include: tutoring, after school programs, more Regional Occupational Program classes, and
support by school staff to encourage minorities' academic success, offering diversity education,
and enforcing the school dress code.
The number one issue in question 3b was dress code. Of the respondents that stated dress code
as an issue, 88% (adults over 25 years old) expressed the need for a uniform policy for all ages.
The youth on the other hand felt that there is a need for a dress code, but that it should be more
lenient.
Infrastructure/Population Control
The community would like to address and plan for the increase in population, by adding more
roads, stoplights, and crosswalks. The community would also like for less homes to be built,
preserve open space, and build more schools to accommodate the accelerated growth the
community has been impacted by.
Jobs
Job training was the number one concern within this theme for question 2, with 67% of
respondents stating this as a need. In question 3b, 42% of respondents stated that their greatest
concern for our youth's future was job availability. In addition to job availability, the
competition for jobs has increased. Some community members expressed their concerns about
adults needing or taking jobs that a teenager would have normally filled, such as a job at a fast
food restaurant. In order to help address this issue, the community would like to see more job
training opportunities for youth, such as an occupational center or job training programs.
El
Additionally, some youth would like to see the minimum age requirement lowered so that they
are eligible to apply for jobs.
Spanish -Speaking Resources
With the increased Spanish-speaking population, the need for more Spanish-speaking resources
is expected, and has been expressed in the community focus groups. 58% of the respondents in
this category stated that the City needed to market its programs in Spanish. Another 18% stated
that a program is needed for Spanish-speaking parents to help their kids with homework.
Marketing
A wealth of activities and programs for youth do exist. However, the community would like for
these programs to be better marketed, so that people can take advantage of what is being offered.
Transportation
Youth are not only faced with the
challenge of having limited positive
activities to participate in, but are also
challenged with obtaining transportation.
Community members expressed that they
would like to see more public
transportation offered, such as having
more routes, extended hours, and
transportation to facilities and events that
cater to teens. There were also requests
to have affordable bus passes and
affordable transportation during the
summer, especially for kids who are not able to drive.
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CURRENT STATUS ON YOUTH NEEDS
Human Services
The City offers programs through the Parks, Recreation, and Community Services department
that are free or very low cost. Some of these programs include:
• Youth in Government.
• Visions in Progress.
• Volunteens.
• Sportsmania.
• Pride in Parenting.
• Community Center Programs.
• Third Friday (Band Night).
• Arts and Crafts Fairs.
Additionally, there has been an increase in school based services, and community agencies that
offer volunteer programs, youth programs, and parenting programs, as well.
Counseling is offered by various non-profit organizations, schools, and private practices, as well.
With the passing of Proposition 63, counseling agencies and the Department of Mental Health
will be able to significantly expand services in the next three to five years. The first year will be
spent planning for capital expenses, training, and facilities. The working poor are targeted for
services, as well as individuals in foster care, uninsured, and clients who require intensive care.
Currently, there are stakeholder group meetings, as well as meetings with parents, state, and
county mental health staff who will make recommendations to the county on how to best manage
and prioritize services and populations.
Entertainment and Facilities
Currently, there are several organizations and businesses that offer fun and supervised activities
for teens. Several organizations include:
• Boys and Girls Club.
• City of Santa Clarita.
• Faith -Based Youth Groups.
• Associated Student Body (ASB) Activities.
• Mountasia Fun Center.
• William S. Hart Union High School District.
• County of Los Angeles Sheriffs Department.
• Six Flags Magic Mountain.
The City's Youth Advisory Committee, VIP, implements events based on their ideas and
suggestions, including high school and junior high school dances. Additionally, they have
collaborated with community businesses and agencies to help advertise, coordinate, and/or
implement positive youth activities. VIP will also work on a teen activities web page that will
have a calendar/database of local activities for teens. This database will be accessible for
agencies to post their activities, pending a City approval process. Furthermore, as part of the
action plan for the City's Big Picture Strategic Plan, the City and partner agencies will be
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creating partnerships to provide special events and attracting one teen entertainment business to
operate in town.
Recreational Opportunities
The City of Santa Clarita currently offers the following recreational opportunities for youth:
Organized Sports
• Youth Basketball Program (up to 16 years old).
• Youth Softball Program (up to 13 years old).
• Youth Volleyball Program (up to 13 years old).
• Youth Flag Football Program (up to 13 years old).
• Various Sports Clinics (up to 16 years old).
Aquatics
• Swim Teams.
• Dive Teams.
• Water Polo Teams.
• Synchronized Swim Teams.
• Competitive Stroke Instruction Classes.
• Lifeguard Training Classes.
• Water Safety Instructor Classes.
• Junior Lifeguard Programs.
Other
• Open Basketball Gym Hours (all ages).
• Open Skate Park (all ages).
In addition to the wealth of recreational opportunities available through the City, there are other
private organizations that offer recreational opportunities.
Public Safety
According to the Big Picture Strategic Plan (2004), safety is a high priority in Santa Clarita. The
City spends over $12 million per year for the contract services of the LA County Sheriff. The
City's Safety Program is multifaceted addressing traffic, crime, drugs, gangs, graffiti, and youth
issues. In the area of traffic, the City sponsors a Citizen's Traffic Safety Committee, has
increased DUI enforcement efforts, pays for 15 traffic cars (compared to only 2 serving the
unincorporated county), and has recently implemented the Sheriffs Teen Traffic Offender
Program (STTOP).
In 2000, the City was rated as one of the top 10 safest cities, with respect to traffic by the Office
of Traffic Safety. In the area of crime, the City has special additions to standard Sheriff services
through a Community Interaction Team (CIT) and Career Offenders Burglary, Robbery and
Assault Team (COBRA) team. The City also has a Bike Patrol to cover areas that are not easily
accessed by vehicles, namely the City's trail system. The City has two Sheriff Sub -Stations, one
in Newhall, which will be moved to the new Community Center, and the other in Canyon
Country, at the previous location of the Canyon Country Library.
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With respect to gangs, drugs, and youth -related issues, the City sponsors a Blue Ribbon Task
Force to address teens and drugs, alcohol, and tobacco abuse, the Anti -Gang Task Force to
address gang activities and graffiti, and the new Zero Tolerance for the Graffiti program. The
COBRA officers are involved in school activities to address drug abuse and at -risk youth. The
City continues to be one of the very safest communities in the nation to live, with a population
over 150, 000.
Schools
The elementary school Districts offer tutoring to students; parents can call the District office or
school site to obtain a referral from a list of teachers who have signed up to assist students with
homework. The William S. Hart Union High School District has an intervention program that
offers tutoring in Math and English before and after school. There are teachers who volunteer to
help their students during their free time, as well.
The Siena Vista Boys and Girls Club and the Newhall Boys and Girls Club provide after school
programming and activities for community youth. Each school has various clubs and
extracurricular activities for youth to participate in after school.
All school Districts have a school dress code and are enforced to the best of their ability.
Infrastructure/Population Control
The City of Santa Clarita is involved in several projects that are aimed at addressing the issues of
adding more roads, stoplights, crosswalks, and preserving open space. The Cross Valley
Connector will help divert traffic from the 14 Freeway to I-5/SR-126 Interchange. Given that the
City of Santa Clarita and the County of Los Angeles boundaries are fluid, the two governmental
agencies have collaborated under the One Valley One Vision project to ensure that they are in
accord in growth management and decision making. Additionally, the City has an open space
green belt to help maintain the character and quality of life for its residents (Big Picture
Community Strategic Plan, p. 5).
The William S. Hart Union High School District has recently opened Rio Norte Junior High
School, West Ranch High School, and Rancho Pico Junior High School. West Ranch High
School is currently operating on the Rancho Pico site and is scheduled to be open August 2005.
The William S. Hart Union High School District is also modernizing Arroyo Seco Junior High
School, Saugus High School, and Canyon High School. This modernization includes
replacement of temporary capacity with permanent capacity buildings and synthetic turf for
athletic fields. Lastly, the William S. Hart Union High School District is in the process of
conducting an Environmental Impact Report to open a new high school in Castaic.
In addition to opening the Fair Oaks Ranch Community School, the Sulphur Springs School
District has plans to expand and modernize Leona H. Cox Elementary School, modernize and
build new classrooms at Mint Canyon Elementary School, and open a ninth new elementary
school.
The Newhall School District is modernizing Peachland and Newhall Elementary Schools. They
have also received funding to construct Oak Hills Elementary School, which will be located in
the Westridge area, and is tentatively scheduled to open Fall 2006.
12
Jobs
The City offers jobs and job training through:
• Summer Youth Employment Program (income and age requirement).
• Year -Round Youth Employment Program (income and age requirement).
• Job Skills Program.
• Proposition A Employment Program.
Additionally, the William S. Hart Union High School District has a Workforce Investment Act
youth program that helps employ youth, and the Regional Occupational Program (ROP) provides
job training to students in a variety of different areas. There is also the School and Business
Alliance — an organization that provides work -based learning opportunities.
Under the direction of the City's Economic Development Director, the City works diligently to
attract and retain businesses in the Santa Clarita Valley. Such efforts include the Gate King
Project, Centre Pointe Business Park, collaboration with the Valencia Town Center to attract
higher -end retail stores, and the Downtown Newhall Redevelopment Project, to name a few.
Spanish -Speaking Resources
The City of Santa Clarita provides information and resources in Spanish for the following
programs and materials:
• Community Center.
• Pride in Parenting classes and schedules.
• Parent Tool Kit's - Straight Answers to Tough Questions.
• Anti -Gang booklet.
The City, along with other youth -serving agencies, have Spanish-speaking staff available to
assist the Spanish-speaking population.
Marketing
The City, along with other organizations, market their programs and services in local
publications by placing an ad and/or utilizing various community calendars. Additionally,
programs and services are marketed on street banners, bus shelters, local radio stations, and
websites.
In order to help directly reach the teen population, VIP will work with the City on creating a
master calendar/activity database, which will include teen -friendly activities and businesses.
This calendar/database will be made available on a special website for teens through the City, as
well as links from school websites and other youth -friendly organizations.
Transportation
As part of the Big Picture Strategic Plan, the City is currently looking into how transportation
can be provided for youth, such as acquiring funds for a teen transportation program similar to
the City of Burbank's "Got Wheels" program.
13
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REFERENCES
Myers, Michael, (1997). Qualitative Research in Information Systems. Retrieved March 30, 2005,
from the World Wide Web: http://www.gual.auckland.ae.nz/
The City of Santa Clarita. (2004). 2004 — 2007 Community Strategic Plan. Santa Clarita, CA.
IV
Exhibit I
FOCUS GROUP QUESTIONS
1. What do you think are the most important concerns facing teens (12-18 years old) in the
Santa Clarita Valley today?
2. What additional services (facilities, programs, activities, etc.) would you like the
community to offer?
3. Do you foresee different challenges for teens (12-18 years old) in the next five years than
what we face today?
a. If so, what are they?
b. How should the community plan for them?
19
Exhibit II
FOCUS GROUP PROFILE
I l years old or under
I 1 years old or under
5.91%
39
1
12 - 18 years old
45.91%
303
59
19 - 25 years old
3.48%
23
Not specified
Over 25 years old
43.64%
288
Not specified
1.06%
7
11 years old or under
8.520/0
52
2
12- 18 years old
42.13%
257
19 - 25 years old
2.790/a
17
Over 25 years old
45.41%
277
Not specified
1.15°/a
7
11 years old or under
8.91%
31
3a
12-18 years old
47.13%
164
19.25 years old
3.166/a
11
Over 25 years old
40.80°/a
348
Not specified
0.000/s
0
11 years old or under
7.080/a
25
3b
12 -18 years old
40.23%
142
19 - 25 years old
2.270/a
8
Over 25 years old
50.14%
177
M- specified
0.28%
1
I l years old or under
7.46%
147
Totals 12- 18 years old
43.940/0
866
19 - 25 years old
2.990/0
59
Over 25 years old
44.85%
884
Not specified
0.760/a
15
20
Exhibit III
FACILITATOR RESPONSIBILITIES
Mayor's Conference — Focus Group Breakouts
• Organize two tables into one break-out group.
• Introduce the Note -Taker and yourself as Facilitator.
• Process will have been explained from podium; however, review briefly:
1. Purpose is to gather information for City planning by soliciting ideas and opinions of community.
2. We use a brainstorming technique to generate ideas. Brainstorming guidelines:
• No judgments.
• No limits on ideas.
• All should listen and respect others' ideas.
• MAINTAIN NEUTRALITY.
• Comments should be brief to allow all to participate.
3. Sheets with Questions are on the table.
4. After we explore all three questions, we will analyze the input and determine the top three ideas
across all the questions that the group would like to report out.
5. Note -Taker will write all ideas on flip chart paper.
6. After brainstorming, group will select a Reporter to share the group's top ideas with the audience.
7. Mention that the City would like to be able to organize the input by age group. Request that each
speaker state his/her age category off name tag when giving ideas.
Open each question period by repeating the question and noting the purpose and non -purpose of the
question. (Allow time for Note -Taker to tape up next question.)
1. Remind participants to keep responses short; stop long explanations so that all can speak.
2. Restate ideas into short phrases.
3. Repeat the ideas and identify the age of the speaker to aid the Note -Taker.
4. Ask participants to "Hold that thought," if the Note -Taker needs time to catch up.
5. If ideas come too fast, people may write them on Post -its, which will be at the easel.
• Before analytical section, select Reporter for group.
• During analytical section, return to purpose of session to focus down to top three ideas.
• Before closing analytical, have Reporter give his/her report to group to ensure compliance.
• Inform Reporter that he/she will need to report to stage after break.
Facilitator Role
Maintain neutral position; encourage everyone equally.
Manage the process, not content. Do not add ideas or opinions to group.
Allow participants time to answer; do not jump in with multiple trigger questions.
Take your time and trust the process. It really works.
21
Exhibit IV
NOTE -TAKER RESPONSIBILITIES
Mayor's Conference — Focus Group Breakouts
• Allow Facilitator to lead group and ask all questions.
• Print or script clearly on flip chart paper.
• Use additional sheets as needed. Number each sheet in the upper right comer noting
question # and related page (e.g., 1— 2).
• Repeat idea or ask facilitator to repeat idea if not clear.
• Put ideas into short phrases.
• Note each idea with a bullet to keep them separate.
• Note the age category (A -D) of the person giving idea:
(A) 11 years old and under.
(B) 12-18 years old.
(C) 19-24 years old.
(D) 25 years old and over.
• After each question, segment is complete put a clip on the pages related to the finished
question. This will maintain order for transcriber.
• During breaks, please review sheets and edit writing so that it is legible for transcriber.
• Assist Facilitator, as detailed in the attached chart.
22
Exhibit V
FACILITATOR'S SCRIPT
Focus Group Questions & TrIggers
Approximate age of participants answering questions:
(A) 11 years old and under.
(B) 12-18 years old.
(C) 19-24 years old.
(D) 25 years old and over.
Ouestion #1
What do you think are the most Important concerns facing teens (12-18 years old) in the
Santa Clarita Valley today?
Purpose of session: List concerns.
Non -purpose: Define solutions/worry about funding/explain problems.
Trigger Ouestions:
• Youth
- What are your fears for yourself and your friends?
- What things are you discussing on campus?
• Adults
- What do you see your teens afraid ofl
- What are your fears for the teens?
• What bothers the teens you know?
• In the neighborhood (school, parks, sports teams, church, mall), what issues do you see with teens?
• What are your concerns for teens during weekends and after school?
23
Exhibit V
Approximate age of participants answering questions:
(A)
11 years old and under.
(B)
12-18 years old.
(C)
19-24 years old.
(D)
25 years old and over.
(question #2
What additional services (facilities, programs, activities, etc.) would you like the community to
offer?
Purpose of session:
• List programs, services, facilities, and activities only.
• REMEMBER to ask about needs for all teens, not just for those concerns listed in Question #1.
Non -purpose: How to make any of this happen/Costs and barriers to action.
Trigger Ouestions:
• What programs, services, and facilities address the concerns we discussed in the last question?
• What do you like to do?
• What do teens you know like to do?
• What would be your wish list for teen programming and facilities in the Santa Clarita Valley?
• Adults • remember when you were a teen, what did you love to do? What did you wish was
available to you?
F,1
Exhibit V
Approximate age of participants answering questions:
(A) 11 years old and under.
(B) 12-18 years old.
(C) 19-24 years old.
(D) 25 years old and over.
Question #3a - Do you foresee different challenges for teens (12-18 years old) In the next five
years than what we face today? If so, what are they?
Purpose of session:
• Determine if group sees different challenges.
• List those challenges only.
Non-nuroose: How to solve the challenges.
Trigger Ouestions:
• Will changes in the world affect SCV teens in the next 5 years?
• Will the City's growth create challenges for SCV teens?
• If yes, what will be different - at home, schools, neighborhoods, community, parks, sports, church,
and within teen's social structure?
• Imagine being a teen in 2008, what will your daily life be like?
25
Exhibit V
Approximate age of participants answering questions:
(A) 11 years old and under.
(B) 12-18 years old.
(C) 19-24 years old.
(D) 25 years old and over.
Ouestion Ob
How should the community plan for these challenges?
Purpose of session:
• List programs, services, facilities, and activities that meet challenges.
Non -purpose: How to implement the programs, etc./Funding/Politics, etc.
Trigger Ouestions:
• Imagine being a teen in 2008, what is your daily life like if the community meets all your needs?
• What services, etc. are available to a teen in 2008 in a perfect world?
• What services, etc. would help the parent of a teen in 2008?
• What services in a great community of the near future would be offered to nurture and develop our
teens?
26