Number
251701
Version
ORIGINAL
Reference
930217, 211710
Sponsor
ALD. COGGS
Title
Resolution relating to the construction, maintenance, and funding of Stella’s Playground, Milwaukee’s first universally accessible and inclusive playground.
Analysis
This resolution expresses the City of Milwaukee’s support for the construction and maintenance of Stella’s Playground at Kilbourn Reservoir Park and acknowledges existing authority for the acceptance and expenditure of contributions received by the Department of Public Works for that purpose.
Body
Whereas, Research shows that play space is essential for children’s physical, social, emotional and cognitive development; and
Whereas, Children with disabilities should rightfully have access to the same opportunities as their peers without disabilities; and
Whereas, Article 31 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of a Child declares every child has a right to engage in play and entities should support and ensure equal opportunities for them to do so; and
Whereas, A survey from the Milwaukee Health Department and the Wisconsin Southeast Regional Center for Children with Special Health Care Needs (CSHCN) found that the prevalence of children with special health care needs in Milwaukee (23.5%) was almost double that of the surrounding Milwaukee metropolitan statistical area counties (12.1%), the state (13.4%), and the nation (12.8%); and
Whereas, An inclusive and accessible playground will provide a welcoming space for all children to play and socialize; and
Whereas, The City’s neighborhood playgrounds have historically been a great asset to the city and a source of pride for the community; and
Whereas, The Department of Public Works - MKE Parks is responsible for maintenance of the existing playground at Kilbourn Reservoir Park, which is managed collaboratively with Milwaukee Water Works (MWW); and
Whereas, MKE Parks and MWW are supportive of community efforts to replace the existing playground, whic...
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