Sioux City board approves 8-year Morningside lease for East High baseball field

The Sioux City Community School District Board of Education on Sept. 22 approved an eight-year lease with Morningside University that will allow the university to install an artificial-turf infield at East High School’s baseball field.

Supporters said the turf is an opportunity to improve facilities and strengthen partnership with Morningside; opponents warned about equity across the district, unclear ongoing costs and potential building- and site-related expenses. The board approved the lease by roll call, 5–2.

The issue prompted several public comments before the board discussion. “Please vote no for this lease agreement,” said Terry Kilberg, who told the board he opposed the deal on fiscal and equity grounds. Kilberg raised several specific points the board heard later in discussion, including the proposed $495,000 price for the turf, uncertainty about long-term replacement costs, and whether the district would ultimately bear unanticipated repair or code-compliance expenses.

David Hall, another resident who participated in previous facility projects, warned the board to confirm whether the city’s building and occupancy code would require additional work, such as restrooms, exits, plumbing and detention improvements, saying those costs had fallen…