Hanford council approves $110,000 in extra appropriations for Bob Hill Youth Athletic Complex

City staff told the Hanford City Council on Tuesday that the Bob Hill Youth Athletic Complex needs additional appropriations to complete construction and interior work.

"The original project budget was for $1,600,000," Jacqueline Hart, associate engineer for the city, said in a project update that included site photos, utility coordination and schedule details. Hart said recent additions and unavoidable utility work have left the project short of funds needed to finish interior furnishings and to maintain contingencies.

Hart requested two appropriations: $35,000 for interior furnishings and equipment for the concession/restroom building and $75,000 for additional project contingencies. She said the items are necessary to meet accessibility requirements sought by tournament organizers and to ensure the project is durable for long‑term community use.

Staff said construction began under a partial notice to proceed and later advanced to full construction; the revised schedule anticipates substantial completion around February 2026 so the complex is available for the March 2026 youth season. Hart described coordination with Edison on switchgear and undergrounding, and said work must be carefully sequenced to avoid damaging new pavement when a pre‑built building is set in place.

Council discussed alternate fields and the practicality of partial access for practices before final acceptance; staff said limited, supervised access could be granted as work nears completion. Councilmembers praised staff and supported the appropriation. A motion to approve the requested appropriations and authorize the city manager to approve necessary change orders passed 5–0.

The council vote authorizes the requested $110,000 in appropriations from the funds cited in the staff report and allows the city manager to approve change orders within the project budget, with any unused contingency to be returned to the fund.