Camp Properties Discussions

On December 19, 2013, in an effort to determine what kind of property is needed to deliver a quality outdoor program to our membership, the Executive Board of Revolutionary Trails Council asked the Camping Committee to evaluate the Council’s Camping and Outdoor Program, and determine what types of outdoor program are desired by our units. The Camping Committee delivered their report to the Executive Board on May 1, 2014.

The Executive Board then appointed a Properties Evaluation and Recommendation Committee to review the Camping Committee report, along with collecting additional information. Experienced Scouters from all areas of the Council, including the Properties, Program, and Finance Committees, made up the task force that developed the report.

Why We Are Doing This: The Case for Change
It is about growth: Exceptional properties support great programs, which will attract and retain members.
It Is about improving facilities: Legacy camps and facilities need upgrades to meet National standards – we must consider maintenance and capital improvements for camps selected for long term investment.
It is about underutilization: The current system, with three camps, is underutilized, with significant financial losses.

General Recommendations
Customer Service: Change the Culture – all camps are “Our Camps”.
Operational Integration: Leverage opportunities for improved customer service and lower cost in supply chain, technology, food service, equipment sharing, maintenance planning, staffing and training.
Financial Stewardship: Increase efficiencies and utilization with fewer camps. All non-resident camps must operate at cost neutral and meet camp standards, or risk closure. Camps should provide a positive cash flow in order to facilitate future investment in camp programs and facilities.

While no final decision has been made regarding our camp properties, the Properties Evaluation and Recommendation Committee would like to present its progress to the volunteers and supporters of the Council. Three meetings have been scheduled in different areas of the Council to present the report. Please share this e-mail with anyone that you feel would be interested.

The three meetings are scheduled for:

Monday, October 27th – 5:30PM
Herkimer BOCES
352 Gros Blvd, Herkimer, NY

Tuesday, October 28th – 5:30PM
Oneida-Herkimer-Madison BOCES
4747 Middle Settlement Rd, New Hartford, NY 13413

Monday, November 3rd – 6:30PM
Madison-Oneida BOCES
4937 Spring Rd, Verona, NY

All of the supporting materials are available on the Council website under the “Camping” tab, then select “Properties Evaluation Information” HERE