Butler County commissioners took wary steps Wednesday toward adding youth e-sports to its Parks and Recreation programming.

Commissioners voted unanimously in favor of signing on GGLeagues of Missouri City, Texas, as an independent contractor which intends to provide the leagues.

Financially, the department would gain 30% of registration dues. Parks and Recreation Director Lance Welliver said GGLeagues will handle the league’s core functions. He said his department likely will dedicate about five or fewer hours each week in facilitating the program, mostly taking calls and answering questions.

“Esports is a huge business, and it’s a huge component of gaming,” Welliver said. “It’s already there. We’re trying to tap into it.”

According to the International Trade Administration, esports is projected to grow to about $1.1 billion globally this year, and estimates expect that figure to surpass $2.5 billion by 2024.

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