Billings School District 2 is poised to move forward with the renovation of Dailis Stadium after a special board meeting on August 25, 2025, where board members discussed the need for increased funding to address unexpected costs. The renovation project, which aims to modernize the facility for the next 25 years, has encountered challenges that necessitate an increase in the budget from $12.5 million to approximately $14 million.

Michael, a representative from the fundraising campaign, emphasized the importance of completing the project and requested the board's approval to continue fundraising efforts to cover the additional costs. He highlighted that the project is crucial for the community and expressed confidence in the fundraising team's ability to secure the necessary funds.

Shane Swandell, a project manager, detailed the reasons for the budget increase, citing the need to meet Montana High School Athletic Association standards for the field and the necessity of deep foundations based on recent geotechnical reports. He explained that a contingency fund of over $1.3 million is included in the budget to address unforeseen expenses as the project progresses.

Board members raised concerns about the implications of sticking to the original budget. They discussed the potential need to cut essential components of the stadium, such as locker rooms and seating, if the budget is not adjusted. Trustee Nimitz inquired about the involvement of sponsors in funding the field, while other members expressed the importance of maintaining the integrity of the project to ensure continued donor support.

The board ultimately recognized the risks associated with delaying the decision and the potential impact on the project's timeline. They acknowledged that moving forward with the increased budget would allow for the completion of the stadium as originally envisioned, without compromising on essential features.

As the board prepares to finalize the budget, the focus remains on securing the necessary funding and maintaining momentum in the fundraising campaign. The outcome of this meeting sets the stage for the future of Dailis Stadium, with hopes of creating a facility that will serve the community for decades to come.