City Council Talks about Playing Ball

(WOLO) COLUMBIA,S.C., — Columbia residents packed city hall to find out some of the new details concerning a possible baseball stadium here in the Capitol City. While there was not vote expected Tuesday night, people were able to walk away with a few more details concerning what it will take for Columbia to play ball. Tuesday night city leaders discussed funding needs for the project and where that money could possibly come from. According to city officials the contract would be paid in installments starting with a first payment year one of more than 5 million dollars, with the highest lump sum of more than 15 million dollars being paid on the fourth year of the agreement for a total of 34 million over the first four years. That money could come from various funding sources, including hospitality bonds and Purchase Revenue Bonds. Still a lot to discuss before the city is able to give definitive answers. Even the timeline for construction is on the table for debate. Although ABC Columbia News has learned developers are in discussions with land owners about having the 181 acres donated to the city. Two schedules were presented during Tuesday’s meeting. One that would have the baseball field up and ready for the spring of 2016, a second that could have Columbia ready to play ball as soon as April of 2015.