Planned dpgrades to Joe O’Brien Field are moving forward, as the Elizabethton City Council has approved a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Elizabethton Twins (Rookie; Appalachian League).
In order to keep the Twins at Joe O’Brien Field, Elizabethton has been working with the Minnesota Twins to map out ballpark upgrades. Improvements would cover a spectrum of amenities at the ballpark, including player facilities such as the team’s clubhouse.
The plan to keep the E-Twins in town moved forward on Thursday, when the Elizabethton City Council unanimously approved the MOU. The terms of the MOU call for the E-Twins to remain at Joe O’Brien Field for at least the next five years, and Elizabethton to take make $1.5 million in upgrades. After spending a considerable amount of time negotiating agreement, the vote on Thursday was greeted as a positive by some officials. More from WJHL:
The deal was finalized when City Council approved the memorandum Thursday night.
Construction must begin before January 3rd.
Elizabethton Mayor Curt Alexander said the successful deal came with a lot of hard work. “We’ve spent untold hours and energy trying to keep this team in our town where they belong,” he said. “I can’t tell you how glad I am that we’ve reached an agreement.”
The E-Twins have a long history at Joe O’Brien Field, having played at the ballpark since they were established in 1974.
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