The City of Birmingham shut down its youth baseball league last week because of non-payment of team fees of $150 per team and lack of required documentation, officials said.

In a statement released today, the Birmingham Park and Recreation Board confirmed the league shut down, even though some parents say they paid fees, but the board again extended the deadline.

“Several parents and coaches informed us that many of them had paid their organizations upwards of $100 per child to participate,” the board said. “As of today, however, Birmingham Park and Recreation has not received funds or forms from any organization.”

The department said it provided baseball organizations with detailed information about the items and fees needed to participate in the league.

“The goal of Birmingham Park and Recreation’s baseball league is to provide a safe, fun, and fundamental programming for our youth,” the board said.

Required materials included a fee of $150 per team, registration forms completed and signed by a parent or legal guardian and league schedules. An April 19 deadline was set for payment of the $150 fee per team and the registration forms.

“We hosted a preseason tournament on April 22,” the board said in its statement. “On April 27, a reminder email was sent to commissioners of each organization informing them again about registration fees, registration forms and official roster forms. On May 1, another email was sent to all organizations, extending the deadline to May 3.”

After the May 3 deadline passed with requirements not met, the season was canceled.

“As of today, Birmingham Park and Recreation has not received any required documentation or fees,” the board said. “Due to the lack of commitment from these organizations, Birmingham Park and Recreation decided to conclude the 2023 season.”

Today, however, the deadline was extended.

“Birmingham Park and Recreation remains committed to our children and the pursuit of youth sports,” the board said. “We will again extend our deadline and give each organization until Thursday, May 11, to turn in registration/waiver forms for each player participating. These forms are absolutely required to participate.”

Round robin games will be held at Cooper Green Park on Saturday, May 13, and Saturday, May 20, the board said. “Birmingham Park and Recreation will be covering all umpire fees for games to be played,” the board said. “In addition, local businessman Aubrey Bushelon is donating $1,500 for our baseball program.”