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Community pleas on unsafe ball fields prompt Sitka Assembly to add $30,000 for specialized sand
Summary
After public commenters described poor drainage and unsafe conditions at Kin Sham and other fields, the Assembly approved a $30,000 supplemental appropriation for specialized field sand and asked staff to pursue partnerships and grant opportunities.
Residents and youth-sports leaders told the Sitka Assembly that several municipal athletic fields have deteriorated to the point of creating safety risks and limiting play. Multiple speakers urged the Assembly to fund maintenance and to pursue grants and community partnerships to address drainage and material shortages.
Tatiana Perkins, a Little League coach and board member, described standing water, poor drainage and unsanitary conditions and urged the Assembly to "reconsider the cuts and recognize that maintaining these fields is not a burden. It’s an investment in the safety, health, and future of Sitka." Steven Bunnell and others representing the softball community said the materials currently used worsen playability and recommended a specialty "triangle-cut" sand mix rather than local round beach sand.
Public works staff explained past procurement efforts: a $50,000 RFP for a specific athletic field sand mix drew no bids because shipping costs made the product unviable, and staff had to increase the estimate to $250,000 to cover shipping. Staff said some prior appropriations remain unspent and that added funds would be used carefully, with specifications and procurement to avoid buying unsuitable local materials.
Following public comment and deliberation, the Assembly voted 7-0 to add $30,000 to the Public Works sand fund; staff said the prior-year $50,000 appropriation remains available, creating roughly $80,000 of potential funding that staff and community partners could combine for procurement and targeted improvements.
The Assembly directed Public Works to return with a procurement plan and recommended specifications to ensure the purchase is appropriate for Sitka’s climate and field conditions; officials and community contractors also offered in-kind assistance for temporary drainage fixes and labor.
