Commission hears estimate to restore Little League sprinkler system, schedules funding vote

Nick, a staff member presenting to the Child and Recreation Commission, told commissioners Economy Sprinkler inspected the irrigation system on May 4 and found the computerized monitor and wiring in decent condition but multiple sprinkler heads need replacement. "You could actually use it now if you wanted to," Nick said, adding the company charged a $400 assessment, which he paid from the grounds maintenance budget.

The vendor identified roughly 12 heads at Allen Field and 14 at the Little League field; heads were quoted at about $50 each and labor at $100 an hour. Nick gave a combined ballpark cost of $1,900 to $2,300 to replace the heads and bring both systems online. He told the commission installation would likely take a day and scheduling could be "a couple weeks out."

Commissioners said reviving the irrigation would reduce wear on fields and is worth the one-time investment but emphasized the need to confirm account balances before approving spending. "We just need to sort of do a little bit of research so when we vote, we know where the money's coming from," Patsy said.

The chair noted a possible funding source: an Amazon-designated account previously used for recreation items, and asked staff to confirm availability. The commission agreed to add the sprinkler funding question to the June 8 meeting agenda for a formal vote.

Next steps: Nick will contact the vendor to confirm a firm quote and availability; the commission will review account balances and vote on a funding source at its June 8 meeting.