COUNCIL COMMUNICATION
TO: Honorable Mayor and Council
FROM: Gabby Vera, Parks and Recreation Director
SUBJECT:Title
Discussion and Possible Action: Purchase of Lighting Improvements for SARA Park Ball Fields 3 and 4 (Gabby Vera)
Body
FUNDING SOURCE:
Contingency Funds (General Fund) for Fiscal Year 2025-26 or
Consideration of General Fund for Fiscal Year 2026-27 Budget
PURPOSE:
Discussion and possible direction regarding the use of General Fund Contingency currently budgeted in Fiscal Year (FY) 2025-26 to purchase lighting improvements utilizing Sourcewell’s cooperative contract 041123, Oracle Contract 500772, for SARA Park Ball Fields 3 and 4 in accordance with City Code § 3.10.010.3(A)(1), or alternatively, to defer the project for consideration in the Fiscal Year 2026-27 budget process utilizing the General Fund.
BACKGROUND:
On January 27, 2026, Council approved the cooperative purchase of LED lighting improvements to all ball fields at Rotary Park and SARA Park Ball Fields 1 and 2 with MUSCO Sports Lighting, LLC. At that time, Council directed staff to bring back an action item to Council for its consideration to install LED lighting on the remaining ball fields at SARA Park.
SARA Park Ball Fields are among the City’s most heavily utilized athletic facilities, supporting youth sports leagues, tournaments, and recreational programming throughout the year. Proper field lighting is essential to maximize field availability, particularly during peak demand periods when daylight hours limit field use.
LED lighting improvements at SARA Park Ball Fields 3 and 4 will represent Phase 2 of the SARA Park Lighting Enhancement Project. These improvements will modernize the existing lighting system with new LED sports lighting technology designed to improve visibility, enhance safety, increase energy efficiency, and reduce long-term maintenance costs.
The total project cost is $463,000 for both fields.
The Administrative Services Department has confirmed that approximately $763,000 remains available in General Fund Contingency for the current fiscal year. This provides funding for Council to consider completing the lighting improvements this fiscal year, leaving approximately $300,000 for unanticipated costs through June 30, 2026.
COMMUNITY IMPACT:
Upgrading lighting at SARA Park Ball Fields 3 and 4 will significantly improve safety and visibility for participants while increasing available playing hours for youth sports leagues, adult programs, and tournaments. Expanded field availability will help accommodate growing demand, reduce scheduling conflicts, and maximize the use of existing recreational infrastructure.
Investing in this infrastructure supports youth development, enhances recreational opportunities, and strengthens the City’s ability to provide high-quality athletic facilities for residents and visitors.
FISCAL IMPACT:
The total project cost is not to exceed $463,000. Approximately $763,000 is available in General Fund Contingency for the current fiscal year. If Council elects to proceed this fiscal year, Contingency funds would be utilized. Alternatively, the project may be deferred and considered during the Fiscal Year 2026-27 budget process utilizing General Fund.
ATTACHMENTS:
Musco Sports Lighting Quote and Scope of Work
SUGGESTED MOTION:Recommended ACtion
Option 1 - Approve Funding This Fiscal Year:
I move to approve the cooperative purchase of LED lighting improvements for SARA Park Ball Fields 3 and 4 in the amount of $463,000; authorize the use of General Fund contingency funds in the amount of $463,000 for Fiscal Year 2025-26; and authorize the City Manager to execute the necessary documents on behalf of the City.
Option 2 - Defer to Fiscal Year 2026-27 Budget:
I move to approve the cooperative purchase of LED lighting improvements for SARA Park Ball Fields 3 and 4 in the amount of $463,000 after July 1, 2026, and authorize the City Manager to execute the necessary documents on behalf of the City.