Laguna Hills commission recommends Castell Park T‑ball upgrades; staff estimate just under $27,000

The Laguna Hills Parks and Recreation Commission on Feb. 5 recommended that the City Council consider improvements to the T‑ball backstop and infield at Castell Park and forward the project for funding and scheduling.

Deputy City Manager Reynolds introduced the staff report and slides describing a scope of work that includes sod removal and disposal, adding infield mix, laser grading of the infield dirt, installation of bases and a small pitching area. Ryan Hanley, the park supervisor who prepared the construction estimate, told the commission the cost is “just south of 27,000.”

Dan Mandel, representing Laguna Hills Little League, told commissioners t‑ball and rookie divisions (ages roughly 4–6) hit from a tee and “for t ball, there is no pitching. The children are hitting off a tee.” Mandel said a raised pitching mound is not required for t‑ball but could provide practice space for older children; he said the league currently counts roughly 300 registrants overall and about 110 players at the t‑ball/rookie levels.

Commissioners and league representatives discussed alternatives for field space, storage for removable bases and equipment, spectator seating and parking. Staff noted possible locations at Cabot and constraints on school fields — including closed campuses and the need for joint‑use agreements. Reynolds said funding for the project has been identified and reminded the commission that the city’s two‑year budget cycle begins July 1, 2025.

Commissioners debated practical details — including whether to install a permanent raised mound or a removable or synthetic mound that would reduce long‑term maintenance. Ryan Hanley said some cost savings might be possible depending on final specifications and whether a permanent mound is required for the project’s core t‑ball purpose.

A commissioner moved to proceed with improvements to the Castell Park backstop and infield as described in the staff report and present the project to City Council to support Laguna Hills Little League. The motion was seconded and approved by voice vote; the commission’s recommendation will be transmitted to staff for placement on a City Council agenda (staff noted the project could be agendized as early as the Feb. 11 meeting or, if not, Feb. 25). Reynolds said he would coordinate with Public Works on scheduling.

Next steps: staff will refine scope and cost details, confirm final specifications (including whether a permanent mound is needed), and prepare the staff report for City Council consideration. The commission’s vote was recorded as a recommendation to forward the project; final authorization and contract work require City Council approval and scheduling.