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Commissioners Weigh Large October Tournament, Park Events and Possible Renaming of North Park
Summary
Commissioner Shipley brought a request for a two‑day ball tournament for about 120 teams Oct. 26–27; City Manager Johnson said staff will discuss logistics and request organizers consider donating revenue to cover city costs. The Parks & Recreation Board is also working on renaming North Park and Keep Soddy‑Daisy Beautiful will present music‑in‑the‑park plans.
Commissioner Shipley told the Soddy‑Daisy Board of Commissioners on Aug. 1 that Alex Vaughn has requested City approval to host a ball tournament Oct. 26–27 involving about 120 teams, roughly 75 of which would come from outside the area. Shipley said the City would need to stripe fields on Friday night and possibly on Saturday and Sunday; organizers may bring vendors and the Savannah Bananas are expected to provide entertainment.
City Manager Burt Johnson said he would coordinate logistics with Vaughn and ask whether the event organizers would donate some revenue to the City to offset costs. Johnson said staff can handle logistics and noted that Public Works confirmed electricity availability at the site. "I could handle this request," he said, adding he would also discuss potential sponsorships.
Commissioner Shipley raised practical concerns including water and electricity access; Public Works Director Steve Grant said electricity is available along the highway and crews can support field striping. Petty noted the Kids Club typically runs concession stands, which could be an option to generate revenue for city costs.
Separately, the Parks & Recreation Board is considering renaming North Park as a whole; Commissioner Shipley said he is not in favor of changing the park name. Keep Soddy‑Daisy Beautiful requested to attend the next workshop to discuss Music in the Park 2025, and Mayor Everett and City Manager Johnson expressed support for bringing tournaments and other events to the city and for marketing efforts—Johnson said he would like to get drone footage for advertising purposes.
No formal approval was recorded at the meeting; City Manager Johnson will continue planning conversations with organizers and report back to the Board.
