Chambers County Commissioners approved a $2,000,002.97 contract to install synthetic turf infields at the Westside and John McLeod sports complexes, following public comment and an extended discussion about county priorities and funding sources.

Supporters said turf reduces rainouts and increases tournament capacity and visitor spending in the county. Opponents called the purchase a “luxury” and urged the court to finish outstanding drainage and basic infrastructure projects before committing to a high‑maintenance replacement item.

John (Parks Department presenter) described timing and logistics: the department proposes beginning work at Westside in July with a three‑to‑five‑month installation window, and starting improvements at Anahuac (spelled in the packet as ANOWAC) later in the year with completion targeted before the spring season. The parks director said turf could reduce tournament cancellations caused by rain and relieve day‑to‑day dirt maintenance.

In public comment, AC (resident/commenter) argued against spending future tax dollars on turf and warned of long‑term replacement costs. Another resident urged prioritizing drainage projects and street work before luxury park upgrades. County commissioners acknowledged those concerns; several said drainage projects remain a top priority, and one commissioner said they were not receiving complaints from coaches or parents about field quality.

The court moved and carried the turf contract approval; the procurement and budget documents in the meeting packet show the work is to be funded from previously allocated county funds (county staff referenced CEO/ARPA and other project accounts during discussion). Commissioners discussed using staffing flex time rather than overtime to provide on‑site coverage during events.

What happened: The court approved the contract to install synthetic turf infields at two county sports complexes, while several commissioners and members of the public urged prioritizing ongoing drainage and basic infrastructure work.

What to watch next: Parks staff to schedule installations, manage contractor oversight and report back on tournament scheduling and maintenance budgeting.