Danville little league seeks field repairs, cites safety and middle-school gap

Daniel O'Loughley, who identified himself as the league president, told the parks board that Danville’s Little League now serves ages 4–12 and has expanded participation since the pandemic. "I've been on the little league board for 3 years now... Right now, we have ages 4 through 12," he said, and reported that two years ago the league had seven teams and last year had 13.

O'Loughley described recent facility improvements — "we got some old bleachers replaced there on Barnett Field" — but said a persistent gap remains for 13- and 14-year-olds because Danville lacks fields sized for middle-school play. He said older players have been encouraged to play in nearby Avon Little League when larger fields are required.

League representatives and board members also detailed safety and drainage problems on two smaller diamonds. One presenter said Diamond 2, near the basketball courts, frequently pools water and contains rocks and debris that have caused safety concerns: "we constantly have rocks, bricks, nails," he said. A drainage specialist is preparing an estimate to install a drain across the back area to reduce standing water and make the field playable after rain.

The board discussed resurfacing options. A presenter said a contractor estimate came in at about $13,000 and that raising those funds would exceed typical small-team sponsorships: "it's a lot different asking for thousands of dollars for a person than a couple 100 to sponsor..." Board members discussed sharing costs and noted the town would consider partnering if the organizer provides financial transparency and matching support.

Next steps: staff will collect the drainage estimate and an updated project list for a future meeting; board members said they would consider funding contributions if the organizer can provide financial records and match town assistance.