The Park County Commission pledged money to Powell's Babe Ruth All-Star team last Tuesday, helping defray travel costs for the 11-member squad.The All-Stars won the state tournament, earning a trip to the regional competition in Centralia, Wash., last week, but their expenses were expected to total some $18,000.During the commission's meeting last week, Commissioner Dave Burke opposed giving money to the team, saying that while it was a good organization, he didn't believe taxpayers should be “obligated to support all of the good causes that come before us.”Commissioner Tim French disagreed, noting that the county spends money aiding troubled youth (such as through county drug court); he argued that the county should also support the talented youth representing the “flip side of getting in trouble.”French added that he understood Burke's call for fiscal restraint.“I know we have to draw the line somewhere,” he said.“But not here?” asked Burke.“But not here,” said French.Commissioner Bucky Hall made a motion to give $2,000. It was supported by comissioners Jill Shockley Siggins and French, and opposed by Burke, for a 3-1 vote.Money for the contribution will likely come from either leftover funds in the county's community support account or from reserves.

The Park County Commission pledged money to Powell's Babe Ruth All-Star team last Tuesday, helping defray travel costs for the 11-member squad.

The All-Stars won the state tournament, earning a trip to the regional competition in Centralia, Wash., last week, but their expenses were expected to total some $18,000.

During the commission's meeting last week, Commissioner Dave Burke opposed giving money to the team, saying that while it was a good organization, he didn't believe taxpayers should be “obligated to support all of the good causes that come before us.”

Commissioner Tim French disagreed, noting that the county spends money aiding troubled youth (such as through county drug court); he argued that the county should also support the talented youth representing the “flip side of getting in trouble.”

French added that he understood Burke's call for fiscal restraint.

“I know we have to draw the line somewhere,” he said.

“But not here?” asked Burke.

“But not here,” said French.

Commissioner Bucky Hall made a motion to give $2,000. It was supported by comissioners Jill Shockley Siggins and French, and opposed by Burke, for a 3-1 vote.

Money for the contribution will likely come from either leftover funds in the county's community support account or from reserves.