Council approves $3,000 for Memorial Park bullpens; park named host for American Legion centennial tournament

Chip Gordon, speaking for Memorial Park and the American Legion Post 49 program, told the council the park will host the Centennial Hall of Fame tournament on May 30 and that lighting and sound upgrades funded by a recent grant are arriving soon. “The new lights on Memorial Park will be up and installed and shining bright by March 10,” Gordon said, adding that intercoms and speakers are available and lights were expected the next week.

Gordon requested funds to finish ballpark improvements needed to meet tournament standards, including building safer bullpens and replacing infield materials. He presented a dirt‑delivery quote of about $2,200 and an estimated lumber cost for partition walls; he asked the council to approve $3,000 to begin the work pending budget adjustments. The council moved to approve the $3,000 request pending a budget amendment and voted to fund it.

Gordon said netting installed last year and additional netting paid from the lighting grant would reduce risks of foul balls reaching spectators. He also said season tickets for the American Legion home games will be available through local businesses and the team, and promotion is planned for a May 23 home‑opener and the May 30 tournament.

Council members thanked Gordon and participants for volunteer labor supporting park maintenance; Gordon said coaches and volunteers will perform the installation work to limit direct city labor costs. Staff noted the lighting and many netting items were covered by an existing grant, and further budget details will be provided during the budget retreat or in a follow-up memo.