Council awards $50,000 from food-and-beverage fund to Newcastle Little League

The Henry County Council on Wednesday approved a $50,000 award from the county food-and-beverage fund to help Newcastle Little League expand its facilities.

Aaron Neal, a coach and parent who said he represents the league as a volunteer, asked the council for support to finish phase 1 of a project that includes a third playing field and batting cages. "We are outgrowing our facilities," Neal told the council, noting that league registration has grown from about 225 in 2017 to more than 480 currently and that the project also aims to improve safety by reconfiguring circulation and adding fencing.

Council members asked about fundraising and other contributions; Neal said the City of Newcastle has committed $40,000 and that the league has obtained contractors and started ground work. One council member emphasized a preference for using food-and-beverage funds for infrastructure and voted in favor. The council approved the $50,000 request; the transcript records a 6–1 result.

Why it matters: The award supports youth sports participation and facility safety improvements that county officials described as addressing growing demand for recreation space.

Next steps: Neal said the league aims to finish phase 1 by the end of the summer. Staff will note the appropriation in food-and-beverage accounting and Little League representatives plan to return with updates.