Villa Park Youth Baseball seeks fences, scoreboard and resurfacing at Lionsfield; commission asks for permits and Garden Commission input

A representative for Villa Park Youth Baseball and Softball presented a request that the commission recommend funding and installation of a permanent safety fence, a scoreboard, and field-surface updates at Lionsfield.

The representative said the league can contribute volunteer labor and help fund smaller projects and offered to move quickly on a permanent fence if village approvals are secured. "If the funds aren't there at this moment, Villa Park youth baseball and softball are willing to help out gradually," the representative said.

Commission members welcomed the group's long-standing service to youth but stressed more planning is needed. Commissioners asked staff to consult Director H and Tim (village director-level staff) to clarify permit requirements and timelines, and to coordinate with the Village Garden Commission, which manages garden areas adjacent to Lionsfield. One commissioner noted prior pre-approvals on safety fences but said the Garden Commission should confirm any permanent exterior fencing around Franklin or Lionsfield to avoid conflicts with multi-purpose park uses and garden plots.

Staff reported Jackson fields are scheduled for resurfacing (weather permitting) and that Franklin work and fencing would follow; lights for some fields remain underfunded. No formal recommendation or funding approval was made; the commission requested permit, timeline and coordination details before moving to a recommendation.