The City of Atlantic Beach has introduced a new set of stringent rules for professional baseball and softball instructors using city facilities, a move that aims to regulate the use of these public spaces more tightly. In a resolution passed on November 10, known as Resolution No. 25-100, local authorities outlined several requirements that instructors must meet if they wish to offer their services at city parks and athletic areas.
Under these guidelines, which the City of Atlantic Beach detailed on their website, instructors must maintain active registration with the city, post an official yard sign during sessions, and pay a $225 quarterly fee. Additionally, they are subject to thorough background checks, and must provide proof of liability insurance, passing the abuse prevention training named Sexual Abuse Awareness Training through Abuse Prevention Systems, and file hold-harmless agreements for themselves and their clients.
There are also specific stipulations concerning facility usage. For instance, paid instruction is limited to occupying no more than two half-batting cages at a time. This ensures that at least four cages remain open for public use. Scheduling is also tightly controlled, with instruction only allowed during certain times set by the Atlantic Beach Athletic Association Board of Directors. The city made it clear that registration does not equate to a guaranteed spot in the facilities, as there is no official reservation in place.
To apply as a professional instructor, one must follow a series of steps, including completing the application process, passing the required background check, providing insurance documentation, completing necessary training, and submitting signed hold-harmless agreements. Approved instructors will receive an active City registration to be displayed prominently on a City-issued sign during lessons. As stipulated by the City of Atlantic Beach, these meticulous steps are designed to "protect the public and mitigate municipal liability", "ensure fair public access to facilities" and "balance the desire for specialized training with the City's fiduciary and safety responsibilities."
According to the city's declaration, penalties for non-compliance can be steep. Unregistered instructors may face fines of up to $500.
