Ball Field Complex Update

Ball Field Complex Update – May 2015

This is meant to update our patrons on the progress being made towards a ballpark complex coming to York. A timeline, budget, and closing thoughts are included for your review.

TIMELINE

• Summer 2014
o The City of York conducted a “community survey” that showed nearly 80% of our citizens were in favor of an increase in sales tax for infrastructure and recreation improvements

• August 2014
o The City of York and York Public Schools joined together under an inter-local agreement to work on securing a quiet zone and ball field complex for the citizens of York

• September-October 2014
o An informational blitz took place as “Improve York” committee members worked to inform patrons about the proposed ½% sales tax and how its revenue could be used to improve our infrastructure and recreational opportunities

 Patrons were told the projected revenue for this extra ½% sales tax would equal over $1 million annually and that the ball field and quiet zone projects would be bonded out for 20-25 years so that the City and School District could use the additional revenue to do many other smaller projects over the next two decades (it has since been decided the bond will last 20 years instead of 25 years)

 Patrons were informed of the financial impact this ½% sales tax would have on them
• If a $100 purchase is made, the ½% sales tax will cost an added 50 CENTS
• If a $500 purchase is made, the ½% sales tax increase will cost $2.50
• If a $1,000 purchase is made, the ½% sales tax increase will cost $5.00

 Patrons were also informed that NOT ALL purchases are subject to the extra ½%
• Types of Items that are charged Sales Tax: personal property purchases, prepared food, retail purchases, etc.
• Types of Items that ARE NOT charged Sales Tax: groceries, agricultural/farm purchases, prescription medicine, medical treatment, etc.

 Public Forums were held on September 24, October 6, and October 23 with a total of about 30 guests in attendance

 Committee members also published information in the York News-Times, presented at service club meetings, and put out fact sheets around town for patrons to see

• November 4, 2014
o The extra ½% sales tax was successful in the election

• December 8, 2014
o Another public forum was held to discuss ideas, needs, and wants for the ball field complex. Most of the 36 folks in attendance pushed for a complex that had 6-8 ball fields

• January – April 2015
o Lots of pre-planning, pre-design, and cost estimating took place

o Outside studies were conducted that showed an 8-field complex was the best thing to do as it met current and future needs

o Potential locations were considered and the city-owned land south of the Aquatic Center was decided upon

o April 1st – the extra ½% sales tax went into effect on some purchases

o An “Open House” was held on April 23rd at the Holthus Convention Center to show off the plan design, hear concerns from patrons, etc. The vast majority of comments made were extremely supportive of this project.

o The inter-local committee made up of four city council members and two school board members worked hard to ensure that all of the promises made during the fall prior to the election would be kept as we move forward

THE BUDGET
As with most projects, the cost has crept up higher than was anticipated. Important items like erosion control and electrical were much more expensive than first thought. Below is a break-down of the estimated costs for the complex. Final budgeted numbers will be available before construction begins in June. April 2016 is when the facility is scheduled to be completed.

• Grading and Erosion Control $791,100
• Storm Sewer $189,850
• Driveways/Parking $789,166
• Concrete Walkways/Pads $258,815
• Site Utilities (waste/waste water) $465,482
• Site Electrical $1,386,000
• 8-Fields for baseball/softball $1,490,506
• Amenities $1,566,919
• Contingency $350,000
• Bonds/Issuance/General Conditions $358,492
• TOTAL ESTIMATED COST $7,646,331

CLOSING THOUGHTS
We’ve heard from many, many folks that are very excited about this project. We’ve also heard a few rumblings from some that think the cost is too high. We understand and appreciate all points of view. We’ve tried to be very transparent throughout this entire process and will continue to do so. The extra ½% sales tax revenue of over $1 million per year will also go towards funding a position to keep this new ball field complex in great shape, oversee scheduling, etc. When all is said and done and this bond expires in 20 years, York will have generated over $23 million for recreation and infrastructure with the vast majority of the funds going to numerous other projects yet to be determined.

Some are concerned that this ball field money could have been used for “this” or “that.” However, it is important to remember that the ball field complex and quiet zone were on the ballot this past November. Those were the two large ticket items that have been brought up by patrons for years. It was these two projects that were approved by the voters. It is these two projects that will be the first completed as promised to the patrons.

We feel the economic impact of this complex will be wonderful for our community. This complex will provide outstanding recreational opportunities for our children. We appreciate the support of our patrons. As always, feel free to contact us with questions, comments, or concerns.