There has been significant concern expressed online about the Hernando Youth League (HYL) field fees item that was placed on the agenda for the Brooksville City Council. The item was placed on the agenda by City Manager Ron Snowberger. This item is regarding the HYL’s use of the field at Tom Varn Park for softball.
The agenda item states in the fiscal impact portion that the HYL only pays a “rate of $1.58 per hour” to rent the fields and that the “city currently charges $20.00 an hour for rental fees.” With the HYL’s usage of the field this is a difference of $23,000 according to the agenda item.
Mike Walker, President of HYL stated, “These types of partnerships are what cities and counties should strive for, saving hundreds of thousands of dollars to the taxpayers, unless the government wants to run and manage the leagues. Could you imagine the cost and manpower it would take the city to operate the girls softball program at Tom Varn?”
Mr. Walker went on to provide background on HYL. “HYL has 65 years of being the volunteer run youth league service provider to the children and Families of Hernando County and Brooksville. Established by Mr. Ernie Wever back in 1958, incorporated in 1972. Utilized Tom Varn Park beginning in the 70’s and grew to a county wide volunteer based recreational youth sports provider which it is today.”
HYL currently provides sporting experience to around 1500 kids. The softball program at Tom Varn serves 200 girls. Around the county HYL provides baseball, softball, football, soccer, basketball, and cheerleading at a number of venues. The HYL volunteers are background checked.
According to Mr. Walker the additional fees would have to be passed on to the parents of the girls playing softball. This would mean more than doubling the price that the girls are charged to join the softball team.
The meeting will be Monday, January 9th at 7pm. The agenda item is equitable contracts. This item looks to be causing a lot of interest and we will report on what happens.
