NEWBERRY, Fl.

The City of Newberry has officially redirected $2 million in public funding toward critical upgrades at Champions Park, one of the region’s most important economic and recreational assets. The move, approved unanimously by the City Commission during Monday night’s meeting, is a signal of the city’s renewed focus on long-term park improvements and broader civic engagement initiatives.

The reallocated funds were originally designated for a court expansion at the Easton-Newberry Sports Complex, a project currently on hold due to funding gaps. Instead, the city will use the money to address pressing infrastructure needs at Champions Park, ranging from uneven sidewalks and water pressure issues to faulty bathroom fans and worn-out baseball netting.

Immediate Safety, Long-Term Vision

City Manager Jordan Marlowe, who introduced the proposal, emphasized the urgent need to repair “litigious liabilities” on-site.

“Champions Park has been the second-largest driver of ‘heads in beds’ [hotel tax revenue] in Alachua County for maybe six years running,” Marlowe told commissioners. “We’ve put over $100 million back into the county through this park. As we bring it back into our fold, it’s time to enhance it, make it better, and keep those kids coming back.”

The city has already started addressing some concerns. All 16 baseball field net backstops are slated for replacement by mid-July, and sidewalk improvements are underway. However, issues like bathroom ventilation and water pressure still need work. The new funding will allow those problems to be tackled quickly.

Commissioner Mark Clark voiced support but also urged that Alachua County share responsibility for the park’s upkeep, calling it a regional benefit.

While the county’s tourism funds are tapped out for the year, Marlowe said he plans to present a five-year funding strategy aimed at capturing future allocations of federal and tourist tax revenue when those budgets are refreshed.

Youth Council Initiative Approved

Monday's meeting also marked a milestone in civic youth engagement with the formal launch of the Mayor’s Youth Council. Approved last July, the initiative will give high schoolers direct input into city governance.

The Council will consist of:

Five voting members from grades 11–12
Two alternates from grades 9–10
Participants must be enrolled in Newberry’s public, private, or homeschool programs.

Youth Council members will meet regularly with the mayor and hold public meetings compliant with Florida’s Sunshine Law. They'll also be able to vote on youth-related city proposals and offer feedback on new community programs.

Incoming Newberry High School junior Anna McGehee, who will be among the first appointees, told the commission she’s excited to help create outreach programs for elementary students and veterans.

Mayor Tim Marden said he views the council as a way to “build a bench” of future civic leaders.

“We’re not going to be here forever,” Marden said. “So let’s help create pathways for young people to step up, take ownership, and help shape the future of our city.”

He also announced plans for quarterly roundtable discussions to support residents interested in starting new community groups.

New City Clerk Appointment

The commission also approved the employment contract for city clerk nominee Randa Paul, a local real estate agent and the only internal applicant for the role. Paul will succeed longtime City Clerk Judy Rice, who is retiring in September.

The contract outlines:

$75,000 annual salary
Standard retirement and insurance benefits
Performance-based raises up to 8% over three years tied to certification completion

Paul’s nomination was first made during the June 9 meeting, and her unanimous confirmation this week marks a smooth leadership transition within City Hall.

What Comes Next?

The city’s decision to reinvest in Champions Park while engaging youth in policy signals a broader vision for strategic growth and inclusive leadership. Public workshops on the future of the park and recreation funding are expected to be announced soon.

In the meantime, city officials are looking to maintain the park’s momentum—and secure a larger share of future county and state dollars.

“We’ve built something special here,” Marlowe said. “Now it’s time to protect it and make it even better.”

Newberry Reallocates $2 Million to Upgrade Champions Park, Launches Youth Council and Long-Term Recreation Vision

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