What are the comparative annual maintenance costs?
The cost of maintaining the synthetic turf fields are substantially less than the cost of properly maintaining grass fields. The total cost for maintaining the three field complex is estimated at $10,000 per year, although several area communities spend considerably less. The equipment that will be required for maintenance of the synthetic turf fields includes a small tractor which is currently owned and maintained by Newton South. The field sweeper attachment will be provided by the manufacturer of the turf product as part of the installation. The cost for properly maintaining comparable natural grass fields is estimated at $75,000 to $80,000 per year. This includes cutting, irrigating, seeding, fertilizing, aerating, lining, etc. Current fields in the City are inadequately maintained due to budgetary limitations and are difficult to maintain due to overuse and poor soil conditions. The Board of Aldermen have proposed creating a fund to ensure the long-term maintenance of the natural
