North Bend explores indoor sports center collaboration with Coos Bay School District

During the recent North Bend School District Board Meeting, a significant opportunity for community development was discussed, centering on the potential construction of an indoor multi-sports center. This initiative, proposed by Alan Ledesma, aims to provide facilities for various sports, including indoor soccer, and could also include an educational building focused on academics and trades.

Ledesma is collaborating with Dennis Befo of DB Western, who has expressed interest in funding the construction. However, for the project to proceed, the school district would need to donate land, with approximately six acres on Oak Street being considered. This proposal comes after Ledesma's previous discussions with the Coos Bay School District, which have not progressed as hoped.

The board acknowledged the urgency of the situation, noting that Befo, the angel investor, is 85 years old, creating a limited window for the project to materialize. The discussions highlighted the importance of establishing a clear ownership agreement, addressing liability concerns, and outlining operational details for the facility's long-term management.

The board emphasized the need to engage legal counsel to explore the implications of land donation, sale, or lease. They plan to develop options and present them for further consideration. However, board members cautioned that while the idea is promising, many hurdles remain before any concrete plans can be finalized.

Overall, the meeting underscored a proactive approach to enhancing community resources through potential partnerships, while also recognizing the complexities involved in such developments. The board's next steps will involve thorough legal assessments and continued dialogue with stakeholders to navigate the challenges ahead.