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EOTech committee: field expansion still $1M short; RV-park stakeholders exploring property solutions
Summary
The EOTech committee reported a funding gap of about $1 million to complete field expansions and said it is pursuing Oregon Parks & Recreation grants for lights and infrastructure; stakeholders are also discussing property purchases to preserve RV parking capacity.
EOTech update: field expansions need roughly $1 million; group pursues state grant and local solutions for RV park capacity
At the June 23 council meeting the EOTech committee reported that field expansion work remains approximately $1 million short of full completion and that the committee is pursuing a grant through Oregon Parks and Recreation to fund lights, a stone wall and portable restrooms.
The committee told council it is planning expanded programming, including a ‘‘Thursday night lights’’ lacrosse program and efforts to bring a fall lacrosse tournament to Hermiston to increase field utilization. Committee members also said artist bookings for events have been delayed by revoked visas for some performers and that organizers are seeking alternatives.
RV park stakeholder discussions
Committee members reported stakeholder conversations about RV park capacity near the EOTech area. The rodeo organization and other partners have been exploring options with neighboring property owners, including purchase negotiations to develop an additional RV park location that would protect event space and operations.
Why this matters
The EOTech field expansions and related operations affect sports programming, event hosting and overnight visitor capacity in Hermiston; securing additional funding or property would allow the project to proceed and support increased usage.
Next steps
The city and EOTech stakeholders will continue to seek grant funding, pursue alternatives for artist bookings and work with potential property sellers and partners to secure land for RV parking and operations. The committee also said it is recruiting new volunteer members.
Ending
Council received the committee report and no formal action was taken at the meeting; committee staff will return with funding and development updates when available.
