By Pam Wright
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Some big improvements are coming to Rotary Park/Fergie Jenkins Field.
The approvals, made by council at its Feb. 24 meeting, will see the construction of a new perimeter fence, as well as the installation of permanent bleachers that will seat at least 500 additional people.
The municipality will pay for the fence and bleachers with $100,000 from the Hydro One Community Fund, and funding from the Parkland Reserve Fund.
Other changes include the relocation of the bullpen down the first base line.
Those costs and the cost of the bleachers will be covered by way of 20-year expense-sharing agreement with the Chatham-Kent Barnstormers. The organization has agreed to pay back the $180,000 cost of the upgrades, excluding the fence, with interest at prime.
According to a staff report, the Barnstormers are heading into their second season, coming off a successful first season in which they made the playoffs. Throughout the inaugural season, spectators packed the park at every home game, driving home the need for more seating.
Chatham Coun. Marjorie Crew said she’s happy to see the new fence and bleachers.
“If I’ve heard anything from people, when they go, it’s so busy and packed they can’t get a seat,” Crew told council. “So, this is really good for our community. It’s a real economic driver.”
She also pointed out that if there is a problem with the Barnstormers paying back the municipality, the bleachers will remain in the community.
Other councillors supported the changes. West Kent Coun. Lauren Anderson congratulated the Barnstormers on their newfound success.
“We enjoyed it as a family going there and it was always jam-packed,” Anderson said. “My kids had a wonderful time, my husband and I had a wonderful time, and I’m happy to support any expansion that comes this year and the years to follow. I’m looking forward to another great season.”
Chatham Coun. Brock McGregor also expressed his support noting the upgrades will be utilized by other groups, not just the Barnstormers.
However, one councillor expressed concern about spending taxpayer money to support a for-profit enterprise.
Chatham Coun. Allyson Storey said she was worried about setting a spending precedent, noting the improvements to the park aren’t “necessarily needed.
“I do feel there are a lot of non-profits and recreational opportunities that would welcome that same kind of investment,” Storey told council. “I am concerned with the precedent this sets.”
The vote passed 15-1 with Storey as the only no vote.
