Council approves retaining $22,370 leftover funds for Burnett Park batting-cage grading project
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Summary
Council authorized using $22,370 of previously appropriated funds to complete grading and drainage work at the former Burnett Park batting-cage site after a successful rebid reduced project costs. Parks director said the work will be completed this calendar year and used as improved parking and re-seeded turf.
The Vanderburgh County Council voted unanimously to retain $22,370 of previously appropriated money to complete a grading and drainage project at Burnett Park where an old batting cage and concrete slab had been removed.
Zach Wathan, Burnett Park director, explained the original appropriation of $51,170 had been for removal of an abandoned baseball complex. After county highway staff assisted with some demolition and the project was rebid, the new bid for the grading work came in at $28,800. Council was asked to retain the remaining $22,370 for another park project.
Wathan described the planned work as regrading the former batting-cage bowl so it drains properly; the work includes grading, seeding and strawing, and when dry the area may be used for parking or future development. He said the dirt is largely clay and topsoil obtained nearby, and the project is expected to be completed and paid this calendar year.
A motion to approve the retention of funds was made, seconded and carried on a unanimous voice/roll-call vote.
Why it matters: The decision repurposes leftover park funds for needed site remediation and supports ongoing park maintenance and visitor safety.
What’s next: Parks staff will proceed with the grading, seeding and related site work described; the project will be completed within the calendar year and paid from the retained funds.