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SILVER LAKE FAMILY CAMP DISCUSSION AND NEXT STEPS
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RECOMMENDATION
Receive an update on the Request for Information for the Stockton Municipal Family Camp at Silver Lake, and provide direction to staff.
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Summary
On November 4, 2025, staff presented the Facility Condition Assessment (FCA) findings and potential next steps for the Stockton Municipal Family Camp at Silver Lake. In alignment with Council direction, the City issued a Request for Information (RFI) seeking interest from qualified organizations to assume operation of the camp, purchase existing improvements in their current condition, and pursue approval from the United States Forest Service (USFS) to assume the City’s Special Use Permit. Staff will provide Council with an update on the RFI.
The RFI (PUR 26-017) was published on the City’s website and publicly noticed through the Office of the City Clerk. Responses were due December 4, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. PST, and were required to be electronically submitted to the Community Services Department.
DISCUSSION
Background
The City of Stockton currently holds the Special Use Permit authorizing operation of the Silver Lake Family Camp, a 14-acre recreational facility in El Dorado National Forest. The camp has remained closed since 2022 due to the expiration of the operating agreement with the Silver Lake Campers Association (SLCA) and significant deferred maintenance challenges identified in the 2024 Facility Condition Assessment.
On November 4, 2025, Council received an overview of the FCA findings, including the determination that 93 percent of camp structures are in poor-to-critical condition and require extensive rehabilitation. Based on those findings, staff developed and issued an RFI to explore whether public, nonprofit, or private entities are interested in assuming responsibility for the facility.
The total capital renewal cost for all observed deficiencies is $5,846,220. Capital renewal costs encompass minimum, necessary repairs, renewals, and upgrades required to bring the facility into compliance with current building code requirements. This total also includes City administration soft costs, like architecture/engineering, construction management, permits, and testing.
The total replacement cost for all observed deficiencies is $22,323,000. The replacement cost includes a replacement (new) facility using identical programs, construction types, and building systems that meet current building code requirements. This total also factors in City administration soft costs and fees.
Present Situation
Staff will provide Council with an update on the RFI. The RFI served as an information-gathering tool only and does not commit the City to a contract award, procurement, or operator selection. It invited respondents to:
• Express interest in purchasing all onsite buildings and improvements “as-is.”
• Describe operational concepts suitable for family, youth, outdoor recreation, or educational programming.
• Demonstrate operational experience and financial capacity to rehabilitate and maintain the facility.
• Acknowledge that USFS approval is required for any permit transfer.
(RFI Sections: Property Description, Site Conditions, Special Use Permit Requirements)
The Notice Inviting Request for Information further outlines submittal instructions, response format, and contact information.
FINANCIAL SUMMARY
There is no financial impact associated with receiving this report. Future fiscal considerations, including costs related to potential rehabilitation, disposition of improvements, or transfer of the Special Use Permit, will be presented to the City Council after staff receives direction on the preferred path forward.
Attachment A - PUR 26-017 Silver Lake Family Camp RFI (Final)
Attachment B - Notice Inviting Request for Information