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Ontario council votes 5-0 to reopen Jay Littleton ballpark after months of public pressure
Summary
Following extensive public comment from residents, Littleton family members and Little League officials, the council approved staff recommendations to restore playability at Jay Littleton field and work with leagues on boundaries and fees; vote carried 5-0.
After months of public debate, the Ontario City Council voted unanimously to restore Jay Littleton ballpark to playable condition and to have staff work with youth baseball leagues on field specifications and fees.
Dozens of residents and baseball advocates urged the council to reopen the ballpark during an extended public-comment period. Carlos Laura, representing PAC 204 and speaking as a baseball father and Cub leader, said reopening the field would create opportunities for youth development and community gatherings. Ken Braithwaite, volunteer district umpire in chief for Little League District 23, said a refurbished Jay Littleton could host regional tournaments and bring economic activity as teams and families visit Ontario.
Longtime residents and family members, including Gary Littleton, described the ballpark’s history and urged preservation and community use. Community organizers and preservationists argued against replacing the historic grandstand with a splash pad and said public pressure preserved the option to restore baseball.
Council discussion focused on finding a practical path forward that preserves the ballpark’s history while returning the facility to use. Councilmember Bowman moved to follow staff recommendations as presented in the staff report; Councilmember Perrotta seconded. The council asked staff to continue coordinating with leagues on boundary requirements and to keep fees reasonable to maximize youth use.
The motion passed on a 5-0 vocal vote (Mayor Leon, Mayor Pro Tem Wapner, Councilmember Bowman, Councilmember Perrotta, Councilmember Macias). The council directed staff to produce a scope of work for minimal repairs to re-open the field for play and to consult with league stakeholders on long-term rehabilitation plans.
Next steps: staff will return with implementation details and a proposed scope of work, including questions about electrical service for lights and coordination with the Scout House, which several speakers noted as integral to the site.
