Commission recommends MOU with North Idaho College for Memorial Field use, sets annual fee schedule

The Parks and Recreation Commission on Jan. 26 voted unanimously to recommend that City Council approve a memorandum of understanding with North Idaho College to formalize NIC’s regular use of the Memorial Field softball facility and to establish an annual fee schedule.

Staff described the arrangement as formalizing a longstanding “handshake” partnership that previously provided reciprocal, informal use of facilities. Under the proposed MOU, NIC would pay the city $4,000 for 2026, $4,200 for 2027 and $4,410 for 2028. Staff said fees would increase by 5% annually upon renewal and payments would be due on Feb. 15 each year. The suggested initial length of the agreement is three years with the option to renew.

Parks staff said the city would continue to maintain Memorial Field generally (mowing and broader facility upkeep) while NIC would perform field prep and maintenance related to their games. Staff also noted NIC may use adjacent dressing rooms as needed.

Commission discussion touched on neighborhood impacts and historical concerns about noise and game-related inconveniences. "Has the neighborhood been pretty happy with the games here?" asked a commissioner; staff replied that problems have been limited in recent years and that field reconfiguration reduced some issues, such as foul balls entering streets.

A motion to recommend approval was made and passed by voice vote without opposition. The recommendation will be forwarded to City Council for consideration.