Mitchell Council Reviews Bison Park Deal

The Mitchell City Council will vote on a three-year agreement allowing the Bison Baseball Club to use Cadwell Park during its regular meeting on Monday, November 2. The proposal covers the 2027 through 2029 seasons. City Attorney Justin Johnson placed the item on the agenda after council members asked the Parks and Recreation Board to reconsider its previous approval. The Parks Board refused to make the deal conditional on council approval, leading to a direct review by the city's governing body.

The Parks Board initially approved the terms for the 2027 to 2029 agreement on October 15. A week later, council members requested that the board make the approval contingent on the city council not disapproving it at the November 2 meeting. Johnson noted that the board declined this request. He stated that the matter falls under a statute indicating that park and recreation board actions are subject to the approval of the governing body. Johnson said the conditional step would have helped alleviate friction between the two bodies.

Council President Kevin McCardle clarified that his concerns focus on protecting the city's financial investment rather than opposing the team's arrival. He noted that the city spent approximately $400,000 on the Cadwell infield. McCardle suggested the team split its 20 home games between Cadwell Stadium and Drake Field to allow for proper maintenance time. He stated he has no problem with the Bison coming to town but wants to ensure the field can handle the additional wear and tear.

Council Vice President Tim Goldammer also raised questions about the agreement. He noted that a recording of the October 15 Parks Board meeting was unavailable for council members to review. Without the audio, he could not verify answers to questions regarding field conditions and scheduling. Goldammer said he had questions that did not receive answers but believes it would be great for the Bison to come to Mitchell. Both council members confirmed they had not spoken directly with Bison representatives.

Mayor Jordan Hanson questioned the need for council involvement in an agreement already approved by the Parks Board. Hanson said he does not see the benefit of bringing the matter to the council and does not know what problem they are trying to solve. He cited public support for the Bison and expressed uncertainty about why the council needs a say in the matter. The council will also consider setting a ballot date for a runoff election ordinance, reviewing the 2027 city budget ordinance, and approving a Tax Increment District project plan for the Hitchcock Homes development.

The city council meeting begins at 6 p.m. at 612 N. Main St. Other agenda items include a new medical cannabis dispensary license for East River Farms LLC, an $18,000 construction contract for storm sewer piping, and rental agreements for four new city-owned airport hangars.