Okotoks town council should not drag its heels in regards to a new baseball diamond near Seaman Stadium.
On Monday Coun. Matt Rockley brought forward a notice of motion to support the proposal from the Okotoks Dawgs baseball organization to build another diamond adjacent to Seaman Stadium.
The Dawgs have committed up to $1 million to the project east of Seaman Stadium and they are asking the Town to build a soccer field and extend the municipal services to accommodate the facilities. According to the Town its portion of the project would cost between $400,000 and $500,000.
However, Mayor Bill Robertson said the baseball and soccer project is not their top priority — an indoor fieldhouse is their main focus.
A regional fieldhouse is a priority, but priorities should be flexible as opportunities present themselves.
The Town has the opportunity to access $1 million of private money to build a needed recreational facility. These are opportunities which do not happen often.
The fieldhouse is perhaps years away whereas this baseball/soccer proposal is on the table now.
If money is the issue perhaps the Town should approach minor soccer about helping fund the soccer pitch. Granted, the Dawgs have some clout, but they are putting up some of their own money so why not soccer?
It is prudent to have a long-term vision, but do not overlook opportunities right in front of you.
