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Norwich council postpones Dodd Stadium disposition vote after residents plead to keep venue
Summary
The council delayed action on a resolution about selling Dodd Stadium until May 19 after multiple residents described the stadium as a community asset used for baseball, youth programs and events.
The Norwich City Council on April 21 voted to postpone consideration of a resolution about the disposition of Dodd Stadium until its May 19 meeting after more than a dozen residents urged the council to retain and better use the facility.
Why it matters: Dodd Stadium hosts a college‑league team and community events such as youth camps, wellness fairs, food‑truck festivals and school activities. Residents said the stadium generates economic activity for local restaurants and hotels and provides recreational opportunities that are not easily replicated downtown.
What residents told the council
Nancy Maclet, 13 South B Street, told the council Dodd Stadium "is the only affordable family thing that people can do" and described youth programs, community events and large parking capacity that make the site suitable for festivals and school activities.
Robert (Bob) D'Nesha of 107 Whipple Avenue said Norwich has not fully promoted the facility and asked the city to publish the stadium's current operating and capital cost figures so the public can weigh options. "Now there's talk about the city having to put money into the Dodd Stadium. Where is that accounting?" he asked.
Ed Minzner, a CPA, urged the council to share a strategic plan, deferred‑maintenance numbers and an estimate of how sale proceeds would change the tax base before taking action.
Council action and record
Council members voted 7‑0 to postpone action and to relist the resolution for the May 19 meeting. The council also noted that a comprehensive presentation on the stadium's history and challenges was presented to the council on May 20, 2024; a resident referenced that presentation and earlier annual cost figures.
What council members and staff said: Council members indicated the postponement was intended to allow additional public comment and review of maintenance and financial details before any final decision.
Next steps: The council will consider the resolution on May 19 and has invited additional public input and financial/strategic detail before that meeting.
