Pitching progress

HAYDEN — The Hayden Planning and Zoning Commission agreed Monday to recommend that the City Council approves a permit that would allow John Stockton to open an indoor sports complex at 11416 N. Carisa Court, Hayden. 

Stockton, who has been a baseball coach for 15 years, will provide private, by-appointment lessons in the building, if a conditional-use permit is ultimately approved by council. 

“I think that this is something the kids really need, especially in the winter," Stockton said. “It keeps them off the video games and it keeps them active.” 

The commissioners supported getting kids outside, especially during the winter and liked what the business could provide to enrich the city. 

“I think this is an example of where the city lacks funds to create those recreational activities in our community,” Commissioner Mary Howard said. “This is a local person, not an outside investor, who loves the community and wants to provide a service for the community. I think this is exactly what we need.” 

The permit would still need to be approved by the City Council, but will move forward with the recommendation to approve from Planning and Zoning.