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Posted: September 26, 2025
Rapid City
Agenda Item Summary

Agenda Item Ref. #: LF100125-05

Agenda Item Title:

Request for $500,000 from the CIP Contingency Fund for improvements to the Rapid City Soccer Complex

Origination Group:
Legal & Finance Committee
Origination Meeting Date:
10/01/2025
City Council Hearing Date:
10/06/2025
Staff Contact:
Daniel Ainslie, Finance Director
Location:
Council Chambers
Agenda Item Summary:
Soccer remains one of the fastest-growing sports in our community. Beyond offering a positive outlet for youth, local tournaments serve as significant economic drivers—benefiting hotels, restaurants, and gas stations alike.

The Black Hills Rapids Soccer Club recently requested $3.5 million in Vision Funds to install lights and synthetic turf on several fields at the soccer complex. These upgrades would extend playable hours and allow games, practices, and tournaments to resume more quickly after rain. As a result, more teams could participate in existing tournaments, and the season could stretch into additional months.

Unfortunately, due to limited funding, the Vision Fund request was not approved.

During the Vision Fund presentations, the Council encouraged staff to collaborate with applicants to explore alternative paths forward. Council members and staff have since met with the Black Hills Rapids and developed a scaled-down plan that still meets key objectives.

The revised proposal includes:

• Installing lights on four fields (fields 9-12)
• Adding synthetic turf to one field (field 6)
• Estimated project cost: $2 million

The club has already secured $375,000 in capital commitments and anticipates raising an additional $125,000 by year-end. Fundraising efforts will continue throughout the coming year. Additionally, the club has existing $500,000 in funding available for capital projects.

They are requesting:

• A $500,000 contribution from the City
• A 0% interest loan of up to $500,000 over 10 years

The club has committed to covering the loan through continued fundraising or increased fees. This arrangement would accelerate the timeline for improvements, reduce the impact of future inflation, and allow children and local businesses to benefit from these enhancements immediately.

Funding Source & Fiscal Impact (if applicable):

Funding Cost Center
50508912 432.00

Recommendations:

Origination Recommendation Action:
Approve

Attachments & Links to Download:

Presentation to be given on this item.

Published in 2025 - LF Agenda Items
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