The City of Shawnee, OK section on Baseball Heaven provides detailed documentation supporting your doctoral research on youth sports infrastructure and economic impact. Key elements include:

• FOIA Requests: Open records related to local sports governance, providing transparency on public spending and infrastructure development.
• Videos and Research Materials: Documenting community events and interviews that showcase the gaps in youth sports facilities.
• Time-Stamped Data: Important for understanding the historical context of issues like budget allocation and policy changes affecting sports development in Shawnee.

Conversation Timeline: The conversation between Kenneth Crawford and Ed Bolt from 2020 to 2023 reveals an increasing focus on youth sports infrastructure in Shawnee, OK, touching on governance, public involvement, and frustration with the city’s lack of prioritization for youth programs. Crawford’s communication highlights key efforts to improve facilities and engage with officials, emphasizing the need for improved youth engagement, infrastructure, and financial transparency.

The exchange provides critical insight into the challenges of working with local governance bodies to bring about change, which aligns well with your doctoral research on the economic and social impacts of youth sports in Shawnee.

Timeline for Conversation:

• July 21, 2020: Kenneth inquires about Ward 1 position and council preferences.
• March 28, 2021: Kenneth requests sports communication equipment.
• October 5, 2021: Discussion on city street cleaning issues.
• December 2, 2022: Kenneth becomes involved with American Legion Baseball and inquires about youth leagues in Shawnee.
• April 12, 2023: Kenneth reaches out regarding land for a sports complex and the city’s interest in supporting this.
• June 18, 2023: Kenneth expresses frustration about the lack of follow-up from city officials regarding youth sports development.
• August 31, 2023: Kenneth promotes his consulting services as the conversation shifts toward addressing broader youth sports governance concerns.

Key Themes:

1. Infrastructure Investment: Crawford pushes for city involvement in youth sports infrastructure (April 2023). His efforts to attract investors highlight Shawnee’s potential for sports development, despite financial and administrative challenges posed by local government delays.
2. Youth Program Oversight: The frustration in the June 2023 messages underscores a gap in leadership for youth programs, aligning with your research findings on the lack of oversight and governance in Oklahoma’s youth sports.
3. Economic and Social Impact: Crawford’s long-standing concern over the absence of city-led initiatives is reflected in his own doctoral research on how proper infrastructure could have significant economic benefits, as discussed in the December 2022 and August 2023 entries.
4. Policy Implications: The conversation connects the local-level sports governance issues with broader state-level oversight, a vital link to your study’s focus on legal and tax implications, labor issues, and governance challenges.

The email from Kenneth Crawford to Melissa Dennis, Ward 1 Commissioner of Pottawatomie County, outlines a proposal to address the decline of youth sports programs in the region. The core message focuses on:

1. Current Challenges:

• The email highlights mismanagement and a lack of business acumen in handling youth sports, suggesting that past and current leaders have not effectively overseen the programs.
• This connects to your doctoral research, which examines financial transparency and the business aspects of youth sports, as well as the need for reforms in governance and economic strategy in Shawnee and Pottawatomie County.

2. Proposed Solutions:

• Kenneth proposes using his data analysis, education, experience, and faith to craft a business model for reviving the youth sports sector. This suggests that the decline of the programs could be reversed through better financial oversight, governance reforms, and business-driven strategies—an idea that fits into your broader research on youth sports transparency and economic impact.

3. Broader Governance & Economic Implications:

• Kenneth brings up ideas such as shared tax districts between municipalities and counties, showing an interest in innovative fiscal solutions that could benefit both Pottawatomie and Lincoln Counties. This is an advanced concept that ties into local government tax sharing for infrastructure and community improvement, which could support youth sports facilities and programs.
• His mention of the North Rock Creek School District and relationships with Shawnee underscores a need to strengthen partnerships between educational institutions and local governments. This mirrors broader themes in your research regarding public-private partnerships for economic growth through sports infrastructure.

4. Request for Engagement:

• The email ends with a request to meet over coffee, signaling a personal approach to gain support and establish a working relationship with Commissioner Dennis, who has influence over the local policies that can impact the youth sports infrastructure.

Broader Context for Your Lecture:

This email illustrates the lack of communication and potentially missed opportunities for collaboration between local leaders and stakeholders. It supports your case study on Shawnee by highlighting real-world efforts to engage local governance, especially regarding youth sports governance reform.

Shawnee Case Study Integration:

This conversation serves as a rich source of real-time local engagement issues that fit into your broader analysis of USSSA financial transparency. It can be used to underscore the importance of local governance, policy engagement, and economic considerations in sports programs. The ongoing dialogue shows the tension between grassroots efforts to improve youth sports and the systemic challenges posed by budgetary constraints and bureaucratic inefficiencies.

Economic Impact Case Study: Shawnee, OK and Buck Thomas Complex

Current Situation: The April 2023 tornado severely damaged Shawnee’s sports facilities, leaving the community without resources for youth sports. This correlates with Kenneth Crawford’s ongoing efforts (documented in the conversations) to push for investment in youth infrastructure, which was hindered by the city’s budget limitations. Additionally, former Mayor Ed Bolt’s departure and the upcoming swearing-in of a new mayor offer opportunities for leadership to prioritize youth sports.

Buck Thomas Complex: Your prior analysis of the Buck Thomas Complex focused on the need for modern facilities to attract larger events and increase tourism revenue. The facility has the potential to drive economic benefits through sports tourism, particularly for regional and national tournaments. By offering better infrastructure, Shawnee could see an increase in “night trippers” and “day trippers,” which would generate local revenue through hospitality services like hotels, restaurants, and shops.

Projected Economic Benefits:

1. Sports Tourism Revenue: Modernizing Buck Thomas Complex could lead to an influx of regional tournaments, boosting local tourism. Increased participation in youth sports would lead to more “day trippers” and “night trippers,” positively impacting hotels, restaurants, and other local businesses.
2. Youth Sports Participation: Improved facilities would increase youth sports participation, boosting local community engagement and offering long-term benefits in terms of public health and education.
3. Employment Opportunities: Construction, maintenance, and operation of these facilities would create jobs, while ongoing sporting events would support local businesses through increased demand for services.

Tying to the Timeline: The ongoing push for investment in youth sports facilities, reflected in your conversation timeline, highlights the opportunities presented by new leadership to address these gaps. With a new mayor in place, Shawnee could revisit these opportunities and capitalize on the potential for significant economic gains through youth sports infrastructure development.

This case study could become a cornerstone for the discussion on financial transparency, governance, and the economic importance of investing in youth sports within your doctoral lecture.

Holistic Economic Impact Analysis: Shawnee, OK & Buck Thomas Complex

1. Post-Tornado Recovery: The April 2023 tornado devastated Shawnee, leaving its residents without proper sports facilities. The loss of infrastructure presents both a challenge and an opportunity for the city to rebuild in a way that supports economic growth through youth sports.
2. Buck Thomas Complex: Modernization of this facility could drive significant economic benefits. Hosting regional and national tournaments would increase “night trippers” and “day trippers,” boosting local businesses like hotels, restaurants, and retail shops. The improved infrastructure would also raise participation in youth sports, positively affecting the community’s social and economic landscape.
3. Tourism Impact: The influx of tournaments and events would contribute to local tax revenue. Increased foot traffic from these events could create demand for more local services, contributing to economic growth and job creation.
4. Labor and Jobs: Upgrading the complex would generate employment in construction, facility management, and event coordination, creating local jobs and adding income to the community. These new positions, combined with sports tourism, could result in long-term economic growth for Shawnee.
5. Leadership and Governance: The recent change in leadership offers the potential for Shawnee to prioritize youth sports facilities. With former Mayor Ed Bolt having been voted out and new leadership to be sworn in, the timing is right for pushing forward infrastructure projects that could yield substantial economic gains.

The Business Proposal outlines an in-depth economic analysis and operational plan for a Multi-Sport Dome Complex in Shawnee, OK, structured similarly to the Buck Thomas Complex. The plan includes projections for tournament events, team entry fees, and gate fees, as well as the potential economic impact on local sales, tourism, and job creation. Key metrics, such as the projected $4.2 million in economic impact from annual events and a $5 million construction budget, underscore the importance of funding to drive economic benefits.

Key Insights for Shawnee, OK Case Study:

1. Economic Return: Based on the case study, Shawnee could see similar economic benefits to the Buck Thomas Complex. Projected annual economic impact from hosting 22 tournaments is $4.2 million from player and family expenditures in local businesses. This could increase through additional events and improved infrastructure.
2. Payback Period: The plan projects that with 32 events per year, the cost of building a $5 million multi-sport facility would be repaid within 15-17 years based on economic returns alone. This is feasible if Shawnee commits to long-term investments and hosting large-scale tournaments, attracting “overnight trippers” and “day trippers” who contribute to local spending.
3. Operational Costs: Total annual operational costs for the complex, including utilities, staffing, and maintenance, are estimated at $110,000. This includes salaries for full-time staff such as facility managers and part-time employees like concession and housekeeping workers.
4. Community Engagement and Employment: By improving local sports facilities, Shawnee can increase youth sports participation, enhance community engagement, and create jobs for local residents. Full-time staff salaries (ranging from $32,000 to $42,000) and part-time roles would provide stable income opportunities for the community.
5. Funding Challenges: The primary challenge is securing initial funding for the complex’s construction. However, the data indicates a positive return on investment through consistent tournament scheduling and community involvement. Shawnee could explore partnerships with local businesses, government grants, and public-private partnerships to cover construction and operational costs.
6. Long-term Vision: Building on this model, Shawnee can mirror the success of Buck Thomas Complex, growing its tourism sector and establishing itself as a sports destination, generating sustained economic growth for local businesses, and providing new opportunities for youth sports programs.

The Economic Impact of Shawnee and Pottawatomie County, OK has evolved significantly over the years, shaped by its manufacturing, retail, healthcare, and tourism sectors. Here’s an overview of the documented economic trends and their implications:

1. Historical Economic Growth

Shawnee and Pottawatomie County have long been regarded as strong centers for manufacturing and regional trade. Over time, the economy diversified beyond agriculture into industries like healthcare, education, and entertainment. Notably, Fortune 500 companies and major manufacturing facilities have anchored Shawnee’s economic base​ (Oklahoma Historical Society | OHS) ​(Greater Oklahoma City).

2. Tourism and Tribal Influence

The Citizen Potawatomi Nation (CPN) has become a key economic driver in the region. As of 2012, CPN contributed $522.3 million in economic impact, largely through its enterprises like the FireLake Golf Course, Grand Casino Hotel and Resort, and FireLake Ball Fields​ (Potawatomi.org). These facilities attract visitors for conventions, sports events, and gaming, making Shawnee a tourism hub within Oklahoma. Additionally, CPN’s efforts have created a significant number of jobs—since 2003, the tribe has created seven out of every 10 jobs in the city​ (Potawatomi.org).

3. Current Economic Conditions and Opportunities

Shawnee’s proximity to Oklahoma City positions it advantageously within the broader metropolitan area. This offers competitive land pricing and strong transport links, ideal for businesses and investors looking to capitalize on the county’s growing population and skilled workforce​ (Shawnee Forward)​ (Greater Oklahoma City). As the city rebounds from recent challenges, including the 2023 tornado, Shawnee’s focus on rebuilding presents opportunities to further expand economic activities, particularly in sports tourism and infrastructure development.

Expanded Economic Impact Analysis:

• Tourism & Tribal Influence: The CPN’s investments have transformed Shawnee into a destination for conventions, sports events, and recreational activities, contributing to long-term job creation. Since 2003, the tribe has been responsible for 70% of job creation in Shawnee​ (Potawatomi.org).
• Manufacturing & Retail Growth: Shawnee has maintained a strong industrial base while also expanding into healthcare, education, and entertainment​ (Oklahoma Historical Society | OHS)​ (Shawnee Forward). With Shawnee’s proximity to Oklahoma City, it is ideally located to attract new business investments, particularly in sectors like aerospace and advanced manufacturing​ (Greater Oklahoma City).
• Post-2023 Tornado Recovery: As Shawnee recovers from the 2023 tornado, opportunities for public-private partnerships could accelerate the development of infrastructure projects, including the proposed Multi-Sport Dome Complex. Leveraging state and federal grants for tourism, economic development, and infrastructure could be instrumental in rebuilding efforts​ (Shawnee Forward )​ (Potawatomi.org).

1. Tourism and Economic Development Through Sports

The proposed Multi-Sport Dome Complex aligns with Shawnee’s goals to expand its tourism sector, which has been significantly bolstered by the presence of the Citizen Potawatomi Nation (CPN). The $522.3 million annual economic impact generated by CPN enterprises serves as a model for how targeted infrastructure investments in sports tourism could bring substantial benefits​ (Potawatomi.org). Facilities like the FireLake Ball Fields have already demonstrated how sports tourism can drive local economies by attracting regional and national events.

Leveraging this existing infrastructure, Shawnee can continue growing as a sports tourism destination. The city’s central location and its established transportation links make it a key point for hosting large-scale sporting events​ (Shawnee Forward).

2. Manufacturing and Industrial Sector Impact

While sports tourism is crucial, Shawnee’s diversified economy, rooted in manufacturing, provides a strong foundation for ongoing economic growth. Pottawatomie County has historically been a manufacturing hub, with connections to industries like aerospace. Companies benefit from the region’s proximity to the Oklahoma City Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA), a major economic center with a population of over 1.4 million​ (Greater Oklahoma City)​ (Shawnee Forward).

The Gordon Cooper Career Tech System plays an essential role in supporting this sector, offering specialized training programs such as Aviation Maintenance Technology. This further enhances the region’s capacity to attract businesses in high-skill industries​ (Greater Oklahoma City). As Shawnee grows its sports infrastructure, there are potential synergies with its industrial base, particularly in aerospace and advanced manufacturing, which can complement the economic boost provided by tourism.

3. Post-Tornado Recovery and Rebuilding Efforts

The devastating impact of the April 2023 tornado on Shawnee’s infrastructure provides both a challenge and an opportunity. The city’s recovery strategy could include leveraging federal and state funding to enhance not just basic infrastructure but also sports and tourism facilities. The combination of economic recovery and strategic investment could accelerate Shawnee’s path to becoming a sports hub​ (Oklahoma Historical Society | OHS) ​(Potawatomi.org).

4. Public-Private Partnerships and Grant Opportunities

Shawnee is well-positioned to apply for several types of grants and funding programs:

• Community Development Block Grants (CDBG): These federal funds support disaster recovery and infrastructure rebuilding, particularly in low- and moderate-income areas. Shawnee can leverage this program to rebuild critical infrastructure while developing sports and recreational facilities​ (Greater Oklahoma City).
• Economic Development Administration (EDA) Grants: Focused on projects that boost regional economic development, EDA grants could provide substantial funding for the construction of sports complexes that drive tourism and economic activity​(Shawnee Forward)​ (Potawatomi.org).
• Partnerships with Local Businesses and Tribes: The Citizen Potawatomi Nation has shown a commitment to investing in community infrastructure, and potential partnerships with the tribe could further catalyze growth. Public-private partnerships (PPPs) between the city, CPN, and private businesses could ensure long-term sustainability for sports tourism projects​ (Potawatomi.org).

5. Long-term Economic Impact Projections

If Shawnee implements the proposed Multi-Sport Dome Complex, the long-term economic benefits could include:

• Increased Tax Revenues: Local governments could see increased sales tax revenue from visitors attending sporting events and spending on accommodations, dining, and entertainment.
• Job Creation: Facilities like this would create permanent and seasonal jobs in hospitality, event management, and maintenance​ (Oklahoma Historical Society | OHS)​ (Shawnee Forward).
• Enhanced Quality of Life: By improving recreational facilities and hosting more regional events, Shawnee could become a more attractive place to live, drawing in new residents and businesses.

Conclusion

Shawnee and Pottawatomie County have a rich history of economic resilience and growth. With the ongoing recovery from the 2023 tornado and the potential to tap into federal, state, and private funding, Shawnee is well-positioned to emerge stronger. Expanding its focus on sports tourism and building on its established industrial and tourism base could result in substantial long-term economic gains for the region.

Grant Opportunities & Infrastructure Development:

Shawnee is well-positioned to apply for:

1. Community Development Block Grants (CDBG): These federal grants support public infrastructure and facilities, ideal for rebuilding after the tornado.
2. Economic Development Administration (EDA) Grants: Focused on projects that boost local economies, EDA funds could help finance the sports complex and related infrastructure​ (Greater Oklahoma City).
3. State-level sports tourism funds: Oklahoma’s emphasis on sports tourism could offer additional avenues for funding large-scale sports events and complexes​ (Potawatomi.org).

This analysis supports your broader lecture theme of financial transparency and economic impact of youth sports, tying in the local community’s resilience and growth through strategic investments in infrastructure.

• Purpose: The lecture explores the tension between maintaining the integrity of youth sports and leveraging them for economic growth. This involves analyzing how different payment structures, governance models, and infrastructure investments affect both community welfare and financial transparency.
• Research Focus: Centered on the Baseball Heaven Proposal, the study analyzes the potential for youth sports infrastructure development in Shawnee, OK, using lessons learned from the Buck Thomas Park model in Moore, OK. It compares current operational practices, such as cash payment systems, with more sustainable salary-based models to support youth sports governance and economic development.

• Current Status of Shawnee: Shawnee lacks significant sports tourism infrastructure. Existing economic activities are driven by tribal enterprises like the Citizen Potawatomi Nation​ (Potawatomi.org) and nonprofit investments such as those from the Avedis Foundation​ (Avedis Foundation). The city has yet to capitalize on youth sports tourism as a viable revenue stream.

• Projected Impact of the Baseball Heaven Complex:
  • • Annual Economic Impact: The complex could bring in $500,000 – $800,000 annually in sales tax revenue and $150,000 – $250,000 annually in hotel/motel taxes.
    • Long-Term Impact: Over 20 years, the sports complex could generate more than $17 million in total economic impact through sustained growth in sports tourism, job creation, and local business development​ (Shawnee Forward)​ (Shawnee Forward).

• Baseball Heaven Proposal:
  • • The proposal outlines the development of a multi-sport facility modeled after Buck Thomas Park, providing a centralized location for baseball, softball, and other sports events in Shawnee. The facility would be community-owned and operated, ensuring local control and decision-making​ (Shawnee Forward )​(Visit Shawnee, OK).
• Ripple Effect on Local Economy:
  • • Increased household wages due to direct employment at the facility, including positions such as managers, coaches, officials, and event staff.
    • Secondary Economic Benefits: Local businesses, nonprofits, and community organizations would benefit from increased donations, sponsorships, and partnerships​ (YFRC Shawnee).

• Current Issues in Governance:
  • • The current cash-based payment system for officials in Oklahoma has led to issues with financial transparency and potential legal ramifications. In comparison, a salary-based system provides transparency, legal compliance, and a stable economic structure for officials​ (Shawnee Forward) ​(Pottawatomie Dev Authority).
• Comparing the USSSA Model and Little League International:
  • • USSSA Legal Case: The legal challenges USSSA faced, particularly regarding cash payments, highlight the importance of transitioning to a more transparent, salary-based payment model (ShawneeOK).
    • Little League International Model: The community-based structure of Little League International aligns with Shawnee’s goals to foster youth engagement while avoiding the commercial pressures seen in other youth sports organizations like USSSA​ (Pottawatomie Dev Authority).

• Current Cash-Based Model: The cash payment system for officials in youth sports is unsustainable and legally questionable. Officials are paid under-the-table, leading to potential violations of IRS regulations and labor laws​ (Shawnee Forward).
• Proposed Salary-Based Structure:
  • • Annual Salaries: Salaries for game officials would range from $42,000 to $60,000, including benefits like health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off. This ensures full compliance with labor laws and IRS regulations.
    • Full-Time Employment: Full-time employment offers stability, improves retention, and enhances the quality of officiating​ (Shawnee Forward).
• Case Study: USSSA Legal Precedent:
  • • The USSSA case demonstrates the dangers of relying on a cash system. The transition to a salary-based system mitigates legal risks while providing transparency and accountability (ShawneeOK).

• Partnerships with Nonprofits and Local Businesses:
  • Partnering with nonprofits like the Avedis Foundation and local businesses will provide sustainable funding for the complex, supporting infrastructure development and ongoing operations​ (Avedis Foundation)​ (Shawnee Forward).

• Grants and State Funding Opportunities:
  • Shawnee can leverage Community Development Block Grants (CDBG) and state funding programs to finance infrastructure improvements surrounding the sports complex​ (Oklahoma Department of Commerce) ​(Shawnee Forward).

• Projected 20-Year Economic Impact:
  • By applying the Buck Thomas Park model, Shawnee could see an economic impact of $17 million over 20 years, creating jobs, increasing household wages, and boosting local tax revenues.

Conclusion: Integrity vs. Economic Impact

• The Baseball Heaven Proposal exemplifies how youth sports infrastructure can be developed with both integrity and economic impact in mind. By transitioning to a salary-based payment system for officials and fostering partnerships with nonprofits and businesses, Shawnee can create a sustainable, community-focused sports environment that benefits residents and visitors alike.

1. Legal Structures: Transitioning Game Officials to a Salary-Based Model

Current Legal Concerns:

• Cash Payment Systems: Many youth sports organizations in Oklahoma, including USSSA, have historically relied on cash payment systems for game officials. This practice is fraught with legal risks, primarily due to the lack of tax reporting, lack of proper classification of workers, and potential violations of the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA)​ (Shawnee Forward).
• IRS Classification: Game officials being paid in cash may be incorrectly classified as independent contractors. The IRS mandates that individuals who work under the control and direction of the payer (i.e., game officials in youth sports) should be classified as employees rather than contractors​(Shawnee Forward). Misclassification risks triggering audits, fines, and penalties, which could severely impact the sustainability of any youth sports organization.

Transitioning to a Salary System:

• Employee Classification: By transitioning game officials to salaried employees, Shawnee ensures compliance with both state and federal labor laws. Officials would receive consistent payments, taxes would be withheld appropriately, and Shawnee would avoid the pitfalls of the cash-based system, including IRS penalties ​(Shawnee Forward)​ (ShawneeOK).
• FLSA Compliance: Under a salary system, game officials would be eligible for overtime, workers’ compensation, and other legal benefits. This ensures a compliant and transparent operation, building trust with officials and reducing legal risks.
• Employment Contracts: Each official would sign an employment contract outlining their duties, compensation, and expectations. This contract protects both the employee and the organization by legally defining the terms of employment​ (ShawneeOK).

USSSA Legal Precedent:

• The USSSA legal case in Florida serves as a critical example of the dangers of relying on a cash system. USSSA faced legal challenges for not properly reporting cash payments, leading to IRS investigations. To avoid a similar fate, Shawnee must adopt a salary-based structure that ensures all earnings are properly documented and reported​ (ShawneeOK).

2. Economic Models: Sustaining Long-Term Growth through Youth Sports

Projected Financial Impact and Sustainability:

Based on projections from the Buck Thomas Park model, Shawnee could see a steady increase in revenues generated from tourism, local business growth, and tax revenues. The model emphasizes the following revenue streams:

• Sales Tax Revenue: As more visitors come for sports tournaments, local businesses will see increased spending, contributing to $500,000 to $800,000 annually in sales tax revenue​ (Shawnee Forward).
• Hotel/Motel Taxes: Visitors staying overnight will generate $150,000 to $250,000 annually in hotel/motel taxes. This revenue can fund future expansions or improvements to public infrastructure​(Shawnee Forward )​ (Shawnee Forward).

Breakdown of Salaried Positions and their Economic Contribution:

• Full-Time Salaried Officials: Transitioning to full-time salaried game officials ensures stability and consistent payroll expenses. By offering salaries of $42,000 to $60,000, including benefits, Shawnee can attract experienced officials, boosting the quality of officiating and improving the overall reputation of the complex.
  • Benefits: Health insurance, retirement contributions, and paid time off will improve retention and create a professional environment, making the facility more attractive to top-tier tournaments​ (Shawnee Forward).
• Ripple Effect on Local Employment:
  • Indirect Jobs Created: Increased traffic from sports events would benefit local hospitality, retail, and entertainment industries, resulting in more jobs across Shawnee. Jobs in restaurants, hotels, and retail would increase household income by 5-10%​ (Shawnee Forward)​ (YFRC Shawnee).

3. Public-Private Partnerships and Funding Models

Tax Incentives and Grant Programs:

Shawnee has access to several tax incentives and grants that can support the construction and long-term sustainability of the Baseball Heaven complex:

• Community Development Block Grants (CDBG): Shawnee can apply for CDBG funds to support infrastructure improvements such as roads, utilities, and public services. These funds could cover up to 50% of the construction costs for surrounding infrastructure​ (Oklahoma Department of Commerce).
• TIF Districts: Creating a Tax Increment Financing (TIF) district around the complex would allow Shawnee to capture increased property taxes from new developments spurred by the complex. This revenue could be reinvested into the facility, creating a sustainable funding loop​ (Oklahoma Department of Commerce).

Corporate Sponsorships and Naming Rights:

• Sponsorship Revenue: Local and national corporations can provide sponsorships for individual fields or tournaments. A $100,000 per year sponsorship could significantly offset operational costs, further ensuring long-term sustainability.
• Naming Rights: Offering naming rights to local or national businesses for the entire complex or its specific fields could generate $1 million to $2 million upfront, funding construction and operational reserves​ (Shawnee Forward).

4. Long-Term Economic Benefits for Shawnee

20-Year Projections:

With proper governance, Shawnee could experience consistent economic growth for the next 20 years:

• Annual Revenue: Projected annual revenue from sales tax, hotel/motel taxes, and business growth is estimated at $843,000 to $1.13 million by Year 20​ (Shawnee Forward)​ (Shawnee Forward).
• Cumulative Impact: Over 20 years, Shawnee could generate $17 million in economic impact, significantly improving infrastructure, creating jobs, and enhancing public services​ (Shawnee Forward).

Nonprofit Engagement:

• Ripple Effect on Nonprofits: With increased community engagement, local nonprofits such as the Youth & Family Resource Center would benefit from increased donations, sponsorships, and volunteer engagement. This would enhance the social impact of the sports complex, driving community investment and fostering long-term prosperity​ (YFRC Shawnee)​ (Avedis Foundation).

Conclusion:

By transitioning to a salary-based payment system and leveraging state and federal grants, Shawnee can build a sustainable model for youth sports tourism. The legal structure ensures compliance, while the economic model emphasizes long-term growth and community benefits. The Baseball Heaven Proposal provides a roadmap for enhancing integrity in youth sports governance while maximizing the economic impact for Shawnee.