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North Royalton debates $53,000 infield groomer as recreation leaders warn of staffing shortfalls
Summary
Parks Director Michael Marx and recreation groups asked the committee to consider buying an ABI Force infield groomer to improve field drainage and reduce labor; community volunteers and club leaders said lack of manpower — not equipment — is the principal constraint.
Parks and Recreation Director Michael Marx told the Streets Committee that an ABI Force infield groomer — a laser‑guided grader and top‑dresser — would cost about $53,000–$54,000 and could reduce labor, improve field grades and allow more games to be played. "Once the equipment is set up initially, operating the equipment can be done by anyone that works in the Parks and Recreation Department," Marx said, adding that the machine could also be used on outfields and in the cemetery.
Several recreation leaders and volunteers urged caution, saying the department lacks the staff needed to make full use of new machinery. Tony Santangelo, who said he has served on the Recreation Board for more than 10 years and “been the Chair for 2 years,” recounted that booster groups worried about paying half the cost without a city commitment to adequate manpower. Guy DiSiena, the soccer club’s treasurer and club director, told the committee the soccer program has about 1,000 players and said field maintenance has fallen behind because the parks department has fewer full‑ and part‑time employees than it once did.
Why it matters: Delays in field maintenance have led to canceled games and heavy wear on fields. Marx and volunteer leaders agreed better equipment can help, but only if the city has the staff to run it and maintain fields throughout spring and summer.
Budget and partnership history: Marx said the mayor and prior discussions had included a plan whereby the Baseball Boosters would help reimburse the purchase over time; last year boosters declined to commit that funding, and the equipment was not included in the 2026 budget. Administration officials said they are discussing options; Finance Director Jenny Esarey said the mayor had considered purchasing the unit previously but the booster group redirected funds.
Staffing and outsourcing: Recreation volunteers and club officials said the parks and cemetery functions have fewer full‑time and part‑time staff than authorized. Marx and Santangelo outlined current staffing shortfalls and urged the administration to fill vacancies; Law Director Tom Kelly said the administration is advertising positions and is considering outsourcing some mowing to ensure fields are ready for spring.
Next steps: No purchase vote was taken. The committee agreed to keep the item on the agenda so the mayor and administration can report cost, funding and staffing plans at a future meeting.
