2019-130 Miracle LeagueDate: Report No. 2019-130
INFORMAL STAFF REPORT TO MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL SUBJECT: Miracle League BACKGROUND:
On May 21, 2019 City Council requested Parks and Recreation Department (PARD) provide a
report on building/programming a Miracle League field in one of our parks.
Athletics Manager Jason Barrow reached out to representatives from The Miracle League for
information on how to start a program in Denton. According to information received, the process
begins with the submittal of an application and $500 application fee. The Miracle League
corporate office would then contact PARD for an interview and determine final approval. If
approved, a Miracle League Manual would be sent to PARD which includes the official logo and
other resource material for construction and implementation. An annual $500 membership fee is
required.
A Miracle League field would be a standalone field with the sole purpose of providing children
and young adults, at all levels of ability, the opportunity to play baseball. It is a special field with
a synthetic playing surface that enhances accessibility such as allowing wheelchair use. The
estimated cost for constructing a field is approximately $500,000.
The Miracle League is operated with the help of volunteers. Volunteers could come from local
church groups, youth sports associations, schools, and other civic groups. In addition, capital
funding would have to be identified in order to assist in the construction of the athletic field. It is
unknown at this time if additional staff would be required to manage a Miracle League program.
CONCLUSION: Parks and Recreation is in the process of planning the future development of Southwest Park. If
the City wanted to pursue this program and partner with The Miracle League, the Parks Master
Plan for Southwest Park is an option to consider the addition of this inclusive field.
STAFF CONTACT:
Jason Barrow
Athletics Manager, Parks and Recreation jason.barrow@cityofdenton.com