Hermiston approves application for matching funds to finish Heroes Sportsplex improvements

The Hermiston City Council unanimously adopted Resolution 23-58 on March 10, authorizing the city manager to apply for state grant funding to complete improvements at the Heroes Sportsplex at the EOTech property.

City staff presented the request to apply to the statewide local government grant program, which this year lists $15 million in competitive funding. Project elements identified in the resolution and in staff comments included additional lighting for four fields, acquisition of a portable ADA-accessible restroom trailer, ADA parking and field-access improvements, electrical and irrigation work, and other finishing elements. City staff member Artz told council the sports fields are under construction by Made to Thrive under a construction lease; once built, the improvements will be donated to the city.

Artz said the Heroes committee has been fundraising and that the matching funds proposed in the application would come from privately raised dollars and pledges rather than the city’s general fund. Multiple councilors praised the project as an asset for youth recreation and for bringing visitors and business to Hermiston. Councilor Kelso said, “Heroes is a great asset to our community. It brings business into town, and it’s a great outlet for youth recreation.” Councilor Brown described the resolution as the same update provided to the EOTech committee and said the action enables the city to collaborate with Heroes on a statewide grant application.

The motion to adopt Resolution 23-58 was moved by Councilor Kelso and seconded by Councilor Hayward. Roll call was recorded as unanimous (6–0).