Suffolk Reporter

Parks and Recreation Director Laurie Williams is asking the Midland City Council to approve the purchase of outfield wall pads for installation at the Scharbauer Sports Complex Momentum Bank Ballpark. The council will meet on Tuesday, Aug. 13 at 10 a.m.

"The Midland RockHounds have expressed that they are now concerned with safety issues with the pads. Major League Baseball will be inspecting the fields in the spring, and this improvement can be completed before the 2025 season if the purchase is made at this time," Williams said in a memo to Assistant City Manager Jose Ortiz posted in the agenda packet for the Midland City Council's Aug. 13 meeting.

According to Williams, staff has made ongoing repairs to the existing pads. They no longer stay adhered to the wall and are falling apart, according to a memo to Assistant City Manager Jose Ortiz posted in the agenda packet for the Midland City Council's Aug. 13 meeting.

The Parks and Recreation Department recommends using the Keystone Purchasing Network for $224,960.44, according to Williams' memo in the agenda packet for the Midland City Council's Aug. 13 meeting. It includes removal of the existing pads, manufacture and delivery of new pads, and installation. A 5% contingency was requested to cover unforeseen costs. Funds are available in the Scharbauer Sports Complex FY 2024 Operating Budget.