Town manager seeks CIP submissions; council weighs costly field lighting at Bill Moore Community Park

Town Manager Mark told the council department heads must submit proposed projects for the town’s five‑year Capital Improvement Plan by Nov. 26, with the goal of approving the CIP between November and January to align with the operating budget.

Mark noted one project already discussed is possible lighting for additional ball fields at Bill Moore Community Park, a request driven by parents and field users. Council members and staff discussed practical considerations: high capital costs, ongoing maintenance and electricity costs, occasional bulb replacement, and whether the level of evening use justifies the expense.

Council members raised concerns about light intrusion for nearby residents, particularly the Groves at Town Center apartments adjacent to the park, and asked staff to balance brightness and timing if the council elects to pursue the project. Mark said parks staff and the planning department will prepare an estimate for council consideration and that the town will weigh usage versus cost before adding the project to the CIP.

Council did not take a final vote on lighting at the meeting; the item will be considered as part of the CIP process when project submissions are reviewed.