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Commissioners debate Forry Park concession plan, agree to on-site workshop to trim scope
Summary
The board debated a proposed $2.5 million concession building for Forry Park and directed staff to convene an on-site workshop to consider scaled-back designs and timing; commissioners suggested smaller, phased options and temporary food-truck use while fields open.
Commissioners spent an extended portion of the April 8 meeting debating plans for a proposed concession building at Forry Park and the schedule to open ball fields at the West Ridge recreation complex.
The recreation board’s recommended design and procurement specifications — which included a large turnkey concession building with an estimated $2.5 million cost in materials presented to the commission — drew sustained criticism. Commissioners questioned the size, cost per square foot and timing for construction. One commissioner said, “I don't see any way in the world we're ever gonna spend 2,000,000 dollars to build a concession stand,” and urged scaling the design back to a smaller, more functional building.
Board members discussed alternate approaches including a reduced footprint (suggested ranges: about 1,500 to 1,500–2,000 square feet versus the 6,500-square-foot design presented), phasing construction over time and allowing temporary food trucks while fields open. Several commissioners expressed frustration about delays in opening the fields and noted an outstanding loan balance tied to earlier recreation work; one commissioner cited a $1,400,000 outstanding note and an account balance referenced as $780,000 during the discussion.
The board agreed to hold an on-site workshop to review the site and revised designs. During the discussion commissioners repeatedly mentioned the need to scale back costs, prioritize opening fields and consider staged additions to the facility rather than building a large turnkey “Taj Mahal.” Commissioners and staff proposed meeting on site during the week of April 20 (board members discussed setting a 9:00 a.m. start), with the exact notice and date to be posted and advertised according to meeting‑notice rules.
Why it matters: The project will affect Hills, neighborhoods and recreation users across Hendry County; commissioners said they want an approach that opens fields sooner and avoids a construction scope that strains the recreation budget.
Next steps: Staff will schedule and publicly notice an on-site workshop at Forry Park to review scaled-down designs and cost options. The recreation board and county staff will provide updated cost estimates and a proposed phased plan for the board’s review. No funding vote or contract award was taken at the meeting.
