Douglas County Manager’s Office takes over supervision of China Spring Youth Camp
Submitted by Kelsey Penrose on Sat, 01/27/2024 - 11:05am
On January 18, the Douglas County Board of County Commissioners adopted an ordinance which revises the oversight of China Spring Youth Camp from the 9th Judicial District Court to the Douglas County Manager’s Office. This ordinance will be effective February 1, 2024.
“This is a significant change coupled with the major transition in Camp leadership that will require careful navigation, particularly in the early stages,” said Douglas County Manager Jenifer Davidson. “The stability, success, and safety of employees and residents is a top priority for my office and the Board of County Commissioners.”
The China Spring Youth Camp is dedicated to helping male and female, mid-level offenders between the ages of 12 and 18 develop skills, knowledge, and experience to promote health and resiliency, and arrest-progression of problems caused by delinquent behavior. The camp provides behavioral healthcare services, including services for co-occurring issues, to youth and their families.
Douglas County Human Resources Director Wendy Lang has been designated as an acting Assistant County Manager to serve as a liaison from the County Manager’s Office, providing direct resources and support, helping the team at China Spring continue to be successful during this transition. Lang’s first priority will be to conduct a competitive recruitment to fill the vacant Director of Juvenile Camp Services at China Spring Youth Camp.
“To give Camp the attention necessary at this critical juncture, I have assigned Wendy Lang administrative oversight of the Camp,” Davidson adds. “Taking this action will allow camp employees to have direct contact with my office, allowing Wendy and I to review Camp functions, strengths, and opportunities for growth and improvement in partnership with camp stakeholders.”
