Supporters of Rochester’s planned sports and recreation complex gathered on March 11, 2024, to advocate for the progression of the project’s initial phase, estimated at $65 million. The Rochester City Council was set to review a veto imposed by Mayor Kim Norton concerning $52.2 million in proposed construction contracts and material purchases. Attendees emphasized the economic and community benefits of the complex, particularly for local sports teams.
During the council meeting, Clark Jones, the head baseball coach at Rochester Community and Technical College, highlighted the potential for hosting tournaments on turf fields in March. He noted that this development would save the local college program between $20,000 and $30,000 annually by eliminating the need to travel for early-season games. Jones was one of twelve speakers who urged the council to move forward with the project.
Despite vocal support, the council faced dissent. Members Dan Doering and Nick Miller opposed the spending plan. Mayor Norton explained that her vetoes were a reflection of community feedback, suggesting that citizens believed they were voting for an indoor-outdoor facility. She stated, “The project before you is not a year-round, community-focused, indoor-outdoor and economically viable sports and recreation facility.”
Many residents echoed the mayor’s concerns. Jane Shellum, a local resident, expressed disappointment that the project has shifted focus away from the originally proposed 125,000-square-foot indoor facility. She argued that substantial changes to the project should warrant a return to the voters for approval.
Former council member Ed Hruska defended the adjustments, stating that the initial proposal was based on a $50 million project in Bettendorf, Iowa, which was completed in 2018. Hruska indicated that increased costs for the Rochester project necessitated a reevaluation of its scope, suggesting that the revised plan is financially sound.
The community’s perspective varied. Mark Bransford, another former council member, clarified that the proposal presented to voters in 2023 was intended as a draft, allowing for flexibility in planning. “Plans were presented as drafts of what could be, not promises of what will be,” he said.
Supporters highlighted the economic benefits the complex could bring to Rochester. Local residents would benefit from sports tourism, as visitors would potentially increase business for hotels, restaurants, and shops. Pat Sexton, a board member of the Rochester Sports Foundation, emphasized that the project would generate significant revenue for local businesses.
Local hospitality representatives backed these claims, noting the potential for economic growth and community use of the facility. Kristine Ihrke, area director of sales at Kahler Hospitality Group, remarked that the facility could serve as a local economic development tool while also providing recreational opportunities for residents.
Conversely, some residents remained skeptical about the scaled-back plans. AJ Colapinto questioned the adequacy of outdoor courts for year-round use, particularly for sports like pickleball. He pointed out that while the proposed complex may accommodate some activities, it would not provide comprehensive access throughout the year.
Supporters argued that the two planned rectangular turf fields would enhance opportunities for various sports, including lacrosse. Chris Lukenbill, a volunteer for Rochester Area Lacrosse, noted the challenges of unpredictable weather on grass fields, stating that turf fields would facilitate consistent scheduling for practices and games.
Despite the enthusiasm from supporters, critical voices remained. Wyatt Ryan, a resident, voiced that the absence of an indoor facility negated his support for the project. Similarly, Joseph LaForge expressed concerns about whether the council’s decisions aligned with the community’s interests.
In response to the opposition, Council President Randy Schubring emphasized the need to respect the decision made by voters in 2023, stating, “There are very few, if any, other issues that come to this council where the voters have voted.” He underscored the council’s responsibility to act on the popular mandate while recognizing ongoing efforts to enhance community access to recreational facilities.
Following the discussions, the council voted 5-2 to override Mayor Norton’s vetoes, allowing the project to advance. Construction is anticipated to begin in spring 2024, with supporters hopeful that it will fulfill its promise to enhance recreational opportunities and economic development in Rochester.
