Collier mulls $8M ballfield project

Citing growth and young families moving into the township, Collier officials moved forward with an initial plan to build three ballfields at Collier Park with a target cost of $8 million.

George Macino, township manager, said the motion approved by commissioners Aug. 26 directs the township’s engineering firm, Gibson-Thomas, to secure permits for grading. That process could take about 6 to 9 months.

The $8 million target cost would account for a complete buildout — including grading; infrastructure; the fields themselves; lighting; and other facilities, such as concession stands, Macino said.

“We think we’ve got a pretty good handle on things,” he said. “If everything we’re requesting is included, we should be within that range.”

After the permitting process is complete, commissioners would consider putting the project out for bid.

If the project moves forward, it would require some type of tax increase, Macino said. The township would also pursue grant funding to offset the project’s cost.

Collier would not pay for the project through a bond, but rather a loan from its financial institution, First National Bank, Macino said. Officials would borrow the money required to complete the project.

Details of how the financial plan would work are still being determined, Macino said. He said the “vision” would be to have it paid off within 10 years.

Macino said the township is considering the project because its current facilities can’t support the need. The proposed fields would support all ages and skills of baseball and softball.

Commissioners voted 4-1 on Aug. 26 to start the process.

Chairman Wayne Chiurazzi acknowledged the need for the facilities and doing what’s best for the township, and also weighing the cost of the project.

“I think we need to start the process at the end of the day,” he said.

Commissioner Gabriel Benvenuti, who voted against, said he was concerned about the $8 million price tag. He said other options cost less.

“I recognize the need for the ballfields, but I think $8 million, given where we are, put that back to the taxpayer,” he said.

Chiurazzi recognized Benvenuti’s point but said there would be a tax increase regardless of the project’s final cost. Chiurazzi said Collier is “really good financially” and that “we haven’t raised taxes here in 10 out of 11 years” while he’s been on the board.

Commissioner Mary Ann Cupples said the township is growing, and there aren’t enough fields to support its growth.

“We’re a first-class township,and I want first-class fields,” she said. “I’m a school teacher, and if you want to keep your youth engaged and not into trouble, these are the kinds of things that a good township needs.”