The city is taking steps toward replacing the 15-year-old wiring, speakers and sound system at Bowman Field.
On Tuesday, the city finance committee recommended approval of using money in the general fund for the project, estimated to cost $35,000 and including a $5,000 donation by the Williamsport Crosscutters, the minor league baseball franchise that calls the stadium home.
"If we don't replace the sound system there won't be a Crosscutters," said member Gerry Fausnaught. Finance Chairman Bill Hall agreed it is a worthy project for the city to invest in and appreciated the baseball team's contribution.
William C. Wright, general manager of the Streets and Parks Department, said the city would like to award a contract to Robert M. Sides, a city music store.
The sound system that broadcasts information to the audiences at games and events has seen its lifespan, Wright said.
The upgraded sound system will enable a uniform sound to be heard throughout the stadium rather than one section hearing louder than another, he said.
It also replaces wiring that was not put into conduits and untreated plywood housing the speakers.
Hall and Fausnaught recommended the project be forwarded to council for review Thursday night.
Other items on council's agenda include:
A final reading of an ordinance establishing regulations for the use of surveillance cameras within the city. Council President J. Marlyne Whaley and Councilwoman Liz Miele were opposed to the ordinance on first reading. The measure passed by a vote of 5-2, with approvals by Council members Jonathan Williamson, Bill Hall, Gerry Fausnaught, Randall J. Allison and N. Clifford "Skip" Smith.
Final reading of an ordinance to vacate a portion of Eureka Alley for economic development purposes that have yet to be explained to council or the public.
