The Watertown School Committee convened on December 2, 2024, to discuss critical issues surrounding the condition and future of Victory Field, a longstanding athletic venue in the community. The meeting featured passionate public comments emphasizing the need for improvements to the field and its facilities, particularly regarding accessibility and safety for student athletes.

The first speaker highlighted the historical significance of Victory Field, noting its 103-year legacy and the importance of ensuring it meets modern standards. He urged committee members to consider the best interests of Watertown residents and students, referencing a 2014 model and a 2019 report that called for making the field house accessible. He expressed concern over the current state of the facilities, including the field house elevator and the condition of the oval field, which he argued is unsafe due to overuse. He also stressed the importance of adhering to Title IX and ADA regulations, advocating for a thorough review of the facilities before any decisions are made.

Following this, Libby Shaw, a resident from East Watertown, spoke about the broader community implications of the field. She emphasized the value of maintaining a natural grass field for both athletic and community health, referencing a recent Zoom meeting with experts who discussed the viability of well-managed natural turf. Shaw argued that natural grass fields can be maintained without harmful pesticides and are a healthier option compared to artificial turf, which has raised concerns regarding long-term exposure to chemicals.

The discussions underscored a community-wide interest in ensuring that Victory Field not only serves the athletic programs but also remains a safe and accessible space for all residents. The committee is expected to deliberate on these points further, considering the input from the public as they plan for the future of the field and its facilities.