The Geary County Commission has approved an interlocal agreement with the City and USD 475 for a new artificial turf project at Rathert Field.

The County will put up $200,000 toward the project from a special one-cent transient guest tax. The City will provide a portion of the funding, a private donor some of the funding, and the school district some in-kind services.

The County portion of the funding had been collected to help fund a possible sports complex, but instead will be used for this project. Commissioner Keith Ascher noted it’s been clear for some time that a sports complex will not happen right away. “Whether it be land availability, or whatever. And I think this is a really good way to give some seed money to get something started. I think we’ve got a real gem in Rathert Field, so that’s probably the biggest reason.”

Commissioner Ben Bennett said he’s looking forward to the turf at Rathert Field. “I think it’s a good addition to our community, and also will help us market the field for games and activities.” He added if done correctly and managed correctly that could lead to additional transient guest tax revenue, “by utilizing it for games and activities that would cause overnight stays, tournaments.”

The school board has not yet taken action on the agreement, but it is expected to go before them at a future meeting. The Junction City Commission has approved the agreement.