GAA asks city to share costs on replacing lights, poles on ball fields at City Park

By Linda Trest, Staff Writer
Posted 3/4/20

Brad Rasmussen addressed the Board of Aldermen, Feb. 13, on behalf of the Gerald Athletic Association (GAA).

Rasmussen explained that six of the 21 lights on the ball fields were no longer …

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GAA asks city to share costs on replacing lights, poles on ball fields at City Park

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Brad Rasmussen addressed the Board of Aldermen, Feb. 13, on behalf of the Gerald Athletic Association (GAA).

Rasmussen explained that six of the 21 lights on the ball fields were no longer working. “Most of those are in outfield which creates a safety hazard,” he noted.

Several of the poles on which the lights are mounted need to be replaced as well.

The city owns the ballfields, through the city park. The GAA leases the fields for their youth baseball, softball and soccer programs. 

Rasmussen suggested a cost-share venture between the city and the GAA that would replace the lights and poles in phases over several years.

There are two —sometimes three—fixtures per pole. Rasmussen says new fixtures would run close to $900 installed per fixture. Rebuilding the existing fixtures would cost around $500 per unit.

Two of the poles are in “dire need” of replacing, according to Rasmussen. Replacement costs run about $1,000 per pole. He suggested replacing two or three poles and fixtures per year until the project is completed.

Rasmussen was asked to bring firm figures and a plan to present to the aldermen at their meeting Thursday, March 12.