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Resident urges change to locked Heartland Park field signs and asks for low‑cost resident access
Summary
Chris O'Hara told the Saint John Park Board on June 16 that signs on the Heartland Park baseball field calling the area 'private property' should be removed because the fields are town property; he asked for a resident-access path (for example, a town sign or QR code) so residents can use Rookie Field without paying organized-rental fees.
Resident Chris O'Hara told the Saint John Park Board during public comment that signs at the baseball field in Heartland Park labeling the area "private property" are incorrect if the town retains ownership and that residents should be able to use Rookie Field for casual play without paying rental fees reserved for organized groups.
"I'm coming to you today to request an adjustment to a removal of the sign on the signs on the baseball field at Heartland Park...The private property portion sign should be removed since they are not private property," O'Hara said, and suggested a town-provided sign with a QR code linking to rental and resident-use information.
O'Hara said that he and his 8-year-old daughter had previously used the rookie field informally and that current locks and signage prevent casual resident use: "Me and my dad want to play at rookie field and play baseball," his daughter added during the comment.
Board members and staff explained the fields are leased to Saint John Youth Baseball and that, under that lease, the youth baseball organization maintains the infield and related field materials. The board described the lease arrangement and the maintenance purpose for locking some fields to preserve playing surfaces for organized league play.
A board member noted the town had invested in field material in a recent year and described the cost in the meeting transcript as inconsistent; the member said both "$333,300" and "$33,000" during remarks. Staff indicated they would review the signage wording and follow up with Saint John Youth Baseball (SJYB) to discuss whether signage or a reservation process for residents could be adjusted.
The board did not change policy at the June 16 meeting; staff committed to follow up with the resident and with SJYB regarding signage and clarification of resident-use options.
