The Alachua County Commission voted unanimously to delay making a decision on youth summer activities Tuesday afternoon.
The Alachua County Public Schools has yet to provide the commission with a recommendation on whether or not to reopen summer camps and youth sports during the pandemic.
County Commissioner Mike Byerly said the school board could provide insight on the needs of children in the county, many of whom attend public schools.
“I would like them to get their five heads together and really go in deep on it,” Byerly said. “Put some thought into it. Come up with their position.”
Commissioner Robert Hutchinson said he would call the school board after the commission’s meeting to request they meet “as soon as possible.”
While no decision was made, Paul Myers, a county health department administrator, recommended that people who are immunocompromised or older than 65 not participate in youth sports or camps.
Opinions about the future of youth summer activities in Alachua County varied.
County Commissioner Marihelen Wheeler said the commission has to consider the mental health of children in the county by allowing summer activities.
“I’m sure that these young, forming minds are going to need some sense of normalcy down the road,” she said.
However, Commissioner Byerly said the county’s mask requirement could interfere with youth activities.
“Outside, running around, doing things,” Byerly said. “I don't think it would be wise for us to have them exerting themselves in that way while wearing a mask.”
Contact Tristan at twood@alligator.org. Follow him on Twitter @TristanDWood.
