Madison city officials are continuing to evaluate whether EmBe should take over operation of the Community Center’s After School and Summer programs.

Since EmBe expanded to Madison, the city has discussed partnering with the organization, which specializes in youth programming. The Community Center Advisory Committee identified potential benefits, including more flexible scheduling for families, expanded programming, an enhanced curriculum, and continued youth activity at the Community Center. Concerns include reduced city control over the programs and the likelihood of higher participation costs.

The City Commission requested additional information during its July 6 meeting, including projected program rates if the city continues operating the programs and feedback from current families.

City staff say rates would likely need to increase because grant funding that previously helped offset labor and material costs is no longer available. Proposed weekly rates would rise from about $110 to $140 for summer program members and from $40 to $50 for after-school program members, with similar increases for nonmembers.

If commissioners decide to transition operations to EmBe, a facilities agreement would be prepared, with the earliest possible start date of Jan. 1st, 2027.

The City Commission will continue a discussion about the program at today’s commission meeting, which begins at 5:30 at city hall.