Los Banos City Council reviews $13M Colorado Ballpark funding strategy and financing options

In the heart of Los Banos, California, city officials gathered on July 16, 2025, to discuss the future of local parks and recreational facilities, a topic that resonates deeply with the community. As the meeting unfolded, the City Council focused on the financial strategies surrounding the Park Development Fund, which is projected to hold a balance of approximately $10.93 million by the end of the fiscal year 2025-2026.

The Park Development Fund, primarily fueled by impact fees from residential developments, is earmarked for various projects, including the much-anticipated Colorado Ballpark, a skate park, and a potential swimming pool. City officials emphasized the importance of strategically utilizing these funds to not only support the Colorado Ballpark project but also to ensure that other community projects, such as the Westside Dog Park and a splash pad, remain viable.

A significant portion of the discussion centered on the financing of the Colorado Ballpark, which has an estimated budget of $13 million. This includes a $1 million grant already secured, but the remaining $12 million will require careful planning. The council is considering applying for a matching grant of up to $6 million from the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF), which would significantly ease the financial burden if awarded.

City staff presented various financing options, including private loans with repayment periods of 10, 20, or even 30 years. The recommended approach involves utilizing $5 million from the Park Development Fund and securing a $7 million loan, which would be repaid through the fund's operating income. This strategy aims to minimize the impact on the city’s general fund while still advancing critical projects.

Council members expressed a desire for caution, suggesting that delaying some projects could provide more financial flexibility for the Colorado Ballpark. The conversation highlighted the delicate balance between immediate community needs and long-term financial health.

As the meeting concluded, the council acknowledged the importance of community engagement in the design and approval phases of these projects. With the potential for significant grants and a robust Park Development Fund, Los Banos stands at a pivotal moment, poised to enhance its recreational offerings while ensuring fiscal responsibility. The outcome of the LWCF grant application, expected later this winter, could further shape the city’s park development landscape, making it a key point of interest for residents and officials alike.