Commission approves up to $5,000 from I‑69 TIF to pump septic at West Hill youth fields

Austin Brochure, president of the West Hill Youth Athletic Association, told the commission the volunteer-run league serves “approximately a 150 local players and, roughly 90 league games” and asked the county to help with several safety and capital needs, including septic pumping.

“We're requesting, funds up to 37,000, to update our facility, specifically in the capacity of safety and, just some capital needs that need done,” Brochure said. He described a rotting batting-cage structure and a fence that he called a safety concern and said Harrison Township and the Ball Brothers Foundation had contributed roughly $15,500 toward lighting.

Commissioners questioned whether the association would share costs and whether funding the request would set an undesirable precedent for supporting maintenance across multiple youth leagues. Commissioner Brandt said the septic is essential to usable restrooms and moved to provide targeted help for that item.

“I'd make a motion to approve up to $5,000 to be used specifically on this septic system for sanitary to be paid out of the I 69 TIF fund 44 0 6,” Commissioner Brandt moved. The motion was seconded, taken by roll call and approved by the commissioners present.

The commission directed staff to coordinate with Harrison Township on any funds the township might provide and to ensure the county’s disbursement is narrowly tied to the septic pumping work.