Growing participation in youth baseball has prompted Bashaw Minor Ball to ask council to begin planning for expanded recreation facilities.

Minor Ball president Char Broughton appeared before council June 1 to present the organization's vision for future ball diamond development and long-term recreation planning.

Broughton said the association has seen significant growth in recent years, attracting players from both Bashaw and surrounding communities. Current facilities are increasingly strained, with the organization indicating at least three functional diamonds are needed to accommodate league play, practices and tournaments. A long-term goal would be the development of four diamonds to support continued growth and larger events.

The proposal also included the possibility of a regulation-size soccer field as part of a future multi-sport recreation complex.

“Recreation is a major contributor to the community,” said Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) Theresa Fuller.  Deputy Mayor Kyle McIntosh agreed, noting participation numbers can exceed 100 players at a time.

Broughton also encouraged the town to bring together representatives from minor ball, minor hockey, the Bashaw and District Agricultural Society and the proposed arena committee to develop a coordinated recreation strategy for the future.

When asked what council could do immediately to assist the association, Broughton identified weed control as the top priority, particularly on field 3.

Council accepted the presentation as information.