Council Discusses New Lights for North Canton Little League Field

North Canton Little League fields could see some improvements this year.

At Monday night's meeting, city council discussed an addendum to the Little League Lease agreement that would add new lights to one of the fields and move the field's outfield fence back.

Council President Jon Snyder said Field No. 8, at the ballpark near Washington Square on East Maple, is used frequently by high school athletes who can hit the ball over the fence much easier than younger players.

Those athletes also would like lighting so they can practice later in the year, when days are shorter.

All improvements would be paid for through the Little League, Snyder said.

He said lighting has been a concern with residents before because they fear it may become a nuisance.

"What we should do is let those residents come up ... and actually express themselves so that we're able to hear their concerns," Snyder said. 

He invited the public to share their questions and concerns at the Jan. 14 North Canton City Council meeting and following meetings inside Council Chambers.

Council members said it's important to establish when and how often the lights can be used.

"It's a great facility. It's one of the nicest facilities in the state. And the residents and the neighbors there have been supportive, and I think will continue to be supportive," Snyder said. "We just don't want to catch them on a blind side."

Check back with North Canton Patch for more news from Monday night's North Canton City Council meeting.