By Brittany Hanson/Garden Grove Journal
Little League Baseball has had a home in West Garden Grove for around 50 years, but this may be the year that breaks that winning streak.
The West Garden Grove Little League division is looking to get back on the field, but the fields are closed, with no word about when or if they can be used.
A large representation of the league came to Tuesday’s Garden Grove Unified School board meeting to speak out on the issue.
Bell Intermediate School, located at 11852 Knott St., has the multiple baseball fields that serve the league but has been out of use due to the massive utilities overhaul.
The WGLL division feels that access to the fields can be mediated through use of a chain link fence separating the construction area and a secured swing entry gate, to be paid for and installed by the WGLL.
Craig Cassidy of WGGLL outlined the proposal to the board, asking for its help.
“Our children may be pulled to alternate cities to play . . . this may bankrupt the league and end the tradition,” said Cassidy, “We feel that there is a clause in the permit that would allow our kids to still play ball- we believe that what we are asking for is not anything more than fair.”
Tony Flores, a longtime resident and organizer said there might not be any need to modify the original paperwork and everyone can work accordingly.
Because the item was not on the agenda, the board was unable to take direct action on it, however, each had a response at the end of the meeting.
Bob Harden, board member, said, “I have a soft spot in my heart for kids baseball . . . having coached my kids team.”
Laura Schwalm, superintendent, said, “We can still keep them in their end of town and this still allows to get our projects finished. I can’t make any promises until I talk with the staff to see what we need to do, though.”
