Hanford Youth Baseball leaders urge council to revise field fees and improve maintenance

The City Council of Hanford held a meeting on May 20, 2025, where significant concerns regarding the management and maintenance of local recreational facilities were raised by representatives of Hanford Youth Baseball. The discussions centered around field usage fees and the overall support provided by the Parks and Recreation Division.

A resident and board member of Hanford Youth Baseball addressed the council, urging them to reconsider the field usage fees imposed on nonprofit youth programs. The speaker highlighted that their league was the only one to vote against the fee increase last year, arguing that the original proposal allowed leagues to offset fees through facility improvements, which was later limited to only 25%. They emphasized their ongoing investment in the facilities, stating that their league has provided essential upgrades and maintenance, yet they are still charged for field usage.

Concerns were also raised about the safety and maintenance of the facilities. The speaker recounted an incident where a light pole exploded during a game, narrowly missing spectators, and criticized the city for its slow response to maintenance requests, including burnt-out lights and other safety issues. They called for higher expectations from the Parks and Recreation Division, citing a lack of communication and responsiveness to their needs.

Another board member echoed these sentiments, expressing worries about the potential management of a new snack bar by the city. They explained that the league has operated the snack bar with volunteer support, and any changes could lead to increased registration fees for families. The board member stressed the importance of transparency and collaboration with the city to ensure the well-being of the community's youth.

The meeting underscored the ongoing challenges faced by local youth sports organizations in maintaining facilities and ensuring safe environments for young athletes. The council's response to these concerns will be crucial in determining the future of recreational programs in Hanford.