Pending state legislation could lead to improvements to Bosse Field, the historic home of the Evansville Otters (independent; Frontier League).
Opening in 1915, Bosse Field hosted a variety of affiliated minor league clubs throughout the 20th Century, including the Evansville Triplets (Class AAA; American Association) from 1970-1984. The ballpark, which was used in the production of the film A League of Their Own, has been home to the Otters since 1995.
The bill that is being considered by Indiana legislators would create revenues for future upgrades. The proposal triggers a 0.005 cents tax levy that allows the Evansville Vanderburgh School Corp (EVSC) to pursue capital improvements at the ballpark.
The bill has advanced through the Indiana House of Representatives, and will now be considered by the state Senate. If approved, the legislation could lead to some essential upgrades at Bosse Field, according to the Otters and EVSC superintendent David Smith. More from the Courier & Press:
Smith said capital projects the tax levy would fund are essential to keeping the ballpark functioning — not just cosmetic.
“Right now, if the electrical system goes out, we don’t have a plan,” Smith said. “And that’s not where I want to be. The only other option if something like that happened would be shutting it down. We’re talking about maintaining the integrity of Bosse Field so it stays a viable asset for the community. … On an average home, (the tax) would be about 5 bucks. While it is on EVSC’s levy, everyone in this city, county and school corporation can benefit.”
Bill Bussing, owner of the Evansville Otters, said the team supports EVSC’s action in requesting the tax levy.
“As the tenant, we recognize that the facility is in desperate need for some significant capital improvements,” Bussing said. “The building itself is 102 years old. Much of the infrastructure dates back decades, if not a century. We also recognize that the school corporation’s primary focus is on educating local children, as it should be. This bill would allow them to continue to do that and maintain Bosse Field without diverting any funds away from EVSC’s core mission.”
The EVSC is the owner of Bosse Field.