Hopatcong Field Mystery Solved

Editor's Note: The following is a letter to the editor written by Hopatcong Little League President Cathy Bowen. It is run in its entirety and without edits.

Last year we had requested to meet with the DPW superintendent regarding a potential change to the Nariticong Field.  He was accompanied by the Borough Administrator at the time. I had mentioned the possible installation of a T-Ball field in the far corner of the existing outfields and that Little League would be willing to pay for the expense.  We all thought it was a good idea given the shortage of T-ball fields and the extensive number of kids at this level.  We had decided to not use the Civic Center this year so that the football program could start their project without us being in the way.  We used to use all four corners six days a week.  So having an additional field would help with the ever growing amount of kids who sign up every year for Little League.  We assumed that the informal meeting was adequate to proceed with the plans to lay out a small part of the greater existing fields to accommodate a T-ball area.  In our enthusiasm at the beginning of our season, we proceeded to have fencing installed as a backstop and along what would be a third and first base line.  This actually made the area safer along the embankment.  We also dumped three tandem loads of fill to bring the corner up to the level of the grass.  If Little League has skipped or omitted any steps that needed to be taken, we apologize for not being aware of the process.  However, we are pleased to say that numerous children and teams have already been playing on this T-ball field for the past season.  We were also able to accommodate farm level teams this season on this field.  Also please note that the equipment that was located by the back corner was not touched.  Arrangements had been made to make it accessible for the football season.  We are sorry that Mr. Young is upset, and wish him well in his endeavors.  But please remember this is about the kids of Hopatcong and we want to keep them safe while providing them with an outlet to play their sports.

Cathy Bowen, Hopatcong Little League President