Baseball Concession Stand Stays in Sports Complex Plan

Despite an estimated price tag of more than $200,000, Sister Bay will move forward with plans to construct a second concession stand facility at the Sister Bay Sports Complex for the baseball field.

Village President Denise Bhirdo said some modifications to the design were made, including the extension of the roof 24 feet from the structure to provide shelter for events in addition to Door County League Baseball games.

“We wanted to make it usable for more than just the eight baseball games each summer,” Bhirdo said.

When the village decided to move the baseball field from its present location on North Highland Road to the Sports Complex, it was agreed they would construct facilities equivalent to the team’s existing structures. This includes a field, scoreboard, storage area, and concession stand adjacent to the field. The concession stand at the Sports Complex is about 135 feet from the baseball field, which the team worried would prevent spectators from buying food and beverages at the games. Those sales provide its operating funds.

Village Administrator Bob Kufrin had recommended the village not build the stand due to its cost and close proximity to the existing facility, but the village board decided it should fulfill the commitment it made to the organization.

The stand became so expensive because the Wisconsin Administrative Code requires there be hot and cold running water, a hand wash sink, and a dish washing sink in any area where food is prepared. Adequate facilities must also be provided for disposing of wastewater.

Though the plan at present is to construct the stand, more information will be discussed at the village’s July 8 board meeting. Bhirdo said its place on the agenda doesn’t mean there will necessarily be a new vote or a change in plans.

“It’s to present other information to move forward and fully back the decision we made,” she said.