Nonprofit reports $10,000–$12,000 ballfield work; council approves $500 toward fence upgrade

A representative for South County Athletics updated the council on extensive repairs and upgrades to the mill-site baseball field, saying an initial $7,500 budget for grading and materials grew to about $10,000–$12,000 as work progressed. "I had $7,500 set aside... I'm around $10 right now. I'm actually around $12 when it's all said and done," the presenter said, describing regrading, removal of 250 yards of material, irrigation replacements and donated equipment used to complete much of the work.

The presenter detailed donated equipment and in-kind support from local businesses — a skid steer donated by Hennigan Electric, transit equipment from Day or Night Electric, and discounted logging from Dean Logging — and noted a $3,500 universal mount donated by the Josh Bidwell Foundation. He described field-safety fixes, sprinkler replacements and exposed irrigation boxes that were raised and repaired. The presenter also proposed operational ideas such as a maintenance fee for users, a registration portal for umpires and paid cleanup by youth volunteers.

Councilors discussed fencing options. The presenter said powder-coated black, heavier-gauge fence sections would cost roughly $4,300 and estimated a $500 premium above cheaper materials. Councilor (speaker 5) moved that the council donate $500 toward upgrading and replacing fencing on the opposing side; the council voiced approval and the motion carried. The presenter said he would arrange the invoice so the fencing company could bill the city for the $500 portion.

Council members asked staff to document costs, confirm Parks Commission input (the Parks Commission is advisory) and to revisit additional improvements as the field settles before the next season. The presenter thanked the council for support and said he would follow up with invoices and a plan for future work.