By Bonnie Culverhouse
A windy day did not interfere with the turning of dirt at Minden’s Recreation Center Enhancement project Wednesday.
Even though work has already begun, members of the Minden City Council, the mayor and city employees took the time for an official groundbreaking ceremony near Field One where workers will be rolling out the green carpet in the next few days.
“Discussion began in the summer of 2024. At that time, we were talking about improving three fields … just three,” Mayor Nick Cox told the crowd, which also consisted of Simpson Sports Engineering owner Jesse Simpson, Fusion Architects’ Jason Jones, GEOSurfaces contractor Stuart Bledsoe and Assistant City Attorney Neil Irwin.
“That was the starting point,” the mayor continued. “Then the conversation grew.”
While improving baseball and softball fields, the conversation expanded to include football and soccer fields, as well as basketball and tennis courts.
Acreage also expanded, as the City purchased one acre first, then four and last year an additional 73 acres bringing the total to 78.
The City expects to host more ball tournaments in the future, adding to the economy with travelers staying in local hotels and eating at local restaurants and therefore increasing the tax base.
“Economically, you will see tremendous growth from this project,” Simpson said. “And you will see an incredible number of people coming through here.”
Revenue generated will be reinvested in the community.
“This project is designed to sustain itself and continue improving,” Cox said.
District E Councilman Andy Pendergrass said the project would be difficult without the recreation center staff.
“They are taking it onboard for a whole new era,” Pendergrass said. He went on to praise the grounds’ crews, headed up by Doug King and Rec Center Director Zita Williams for their work.
“It wasn’t that long ago that Ms. Zita and I were on this very field shoveling dirt and rocks so the kids could play on it,” he said.
The mayor added, “This project is about our kids – Minden kids and kids from surrounding communities having a first-class place to grow up playing ball. This is just the beginning.”
Top photo: GEOSurfaces contractor Stuart Bledsoe, Grounds Crew Director Doug King, Rec Center Director Zita Williams, Simpson Sports Engineering owner Jesse Simpson, District C Councilwoman Latasha Williams, District A Councilman Carleton “Buddy” Myles, Mayor Nick Cox, Rec Center Project Director Zach Harrison, District E Councilman Andy Pendergrass, District D Councilman Michael Roy and District B Councilman Levon “Charlie” Thomas.
