Chanceford recreation board backs infield work and hears Clutch Baseball Club expansion plans, approves $1,000 donation

The Chanceford Township Recreation Board on Nov. 3 agreed to cut and expand the baseball infields at New Bridgeville Fields and to pursue equipment purchases after hearing that the local youth program plans to expand for 2026. The board also approved a $1,000 recreation donation to youth teams.

The board heard a recap from Ray Schroeder of Clutch Baseball Club, who said the program is growing and that all families from last season have committed to return. "What we are most excited about is the fact that we had 100% of our players/families from last year that are returning. We could not have done any of this without the support of each of you and Chanceford Township, you are truly making a difference in our Youth!" Schroeder said. He reported that last season featured three teams and 37 players, and that organizers plan five teams and about 59 players in 2026.

Schroeder outlined specific field and equipment needs: widening the infields roughly 10 feet to allow 90-foot and 70-foot base configurations on different diamonds, adding Diamond Tex surfacing where expanded, constructing or installing a portable pitching mound (estimated cost $6,000, with $2,400 already raised), a small storage shed (about $400), and at least one additional batting cage (estimated $1,000). He also said organizers have scheduled a field and concession cleanup weekend for Nov. 1–2.

After discussion the board agreed the Township would perform the infield cut-and-fill work and install Diamond Tex in the new areas. Members said they would evaluate purchasing a John Deere 1200A or a similar machine for ongoing field maintenance. The board also noted that the existing batting-cage area needs excavation so mowers do not damage any new cage equipment.

The board scheduled volunteer work days for Nov. 15 and Dec. 13 to prepare the batting-cage room and cornhole area. Adam Norris, who participated by phone, asked to schedule cornhole events at the township building.

On routine business the board approved the March 17, 2025 minutes and accepted the treasurer's report, which recorded balances of $5,790.37 total (Peoples Bank $851.31; York Traditions Bank $4,939.06). Mark Shaull moved to allocate $1,000 from 2026 recreation donations to the youth teams; Kevin Keesey seconded and the motion carried. Meeting minutes state the Township will use the $1,000 donation for the men’s team toward reseeding the outfield.

The board closed its meeting at 9:00 p.m. Kent Heffner said he will raise the parking-lot options at New Bridgeville Fields with the Township Supervisors at their next meeting while the Township engineer checks whether restrictions tied to the Land and Water Conservation Fund apply.